Credit crunch hits Worthing's market traders

Stallholders at the Montague Street market, held every Wednesday, are suffering a dramatic slump in sales as shoppers continue to desert the town centre.

One fashion-seller, who did not wish to be named, said he and his wife took just 35 on Wednesday, January 13.

Bad days

"It was the worst we've ever done on any market," he said.

"By the time you've paid 10 for parking, plus your other overheads, you have to question whether it's really worth it. It's very, very bad."

Hardware stallholder John Mantle added: "Trade is definitely down. Whether it's the credit crunch or normal trends, you can't really tell, but things certainly aren't good."

Tightening belts

Before Christmas, Worthing Chamber of Commerce raised concerns about the town's retail health after what should have been the busiest shopping weekend of the year did not live up to expectations.

The shoppers the Herald spoke to on market day are tightening their belts even further in 2009.

Mo Young, a 64-year-old retired cleaner from Broadwater, said: "There's a few essentials that are definitely cheaper to get from the market, but I haven't treated myself to any luxuries for a while now.

"I don't allow myself to browse, or I'll end up spending money that I just don't have."

Internet cheaper

Caroline Reece, a 33-year-old full-time mum from Goring, added: "I don't shop on the high street very often now and, therefore, I don't visit the market much.

"I should think this is the first time I've been down here for a couple of months and even today I haven't bought anything.

"I usually find the internet is cheaper."

What do you think?

Have your shopping habits changed?

How often do you shop at the market?

Share your views, comment below, email the Herald or write in to Readers' Letters, Cannon House, Chatsworth Road, Worthing, BN11 1NA.

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