A WEEKLY town market granted its charter in 1251 may soon cease trading.

Sedbergh market has been on the decline for many months and is now regarded as not being economically viable.

The smallest market in South Lakeland, Sedbergh attracts only two stalls.

One of the options being considered is for Sedbergh Parish Council to take over the running of the market.

The council members expressed the opinion that they would not like to lose the market, but before they would even contemplate taking it over they would like to find out more about the costs and duties involved.

The chairman of Sedbergh Chamber of Trade, Garth Steadman, said: "The market is an important part of life in Sedbergh.

It is the focal point of the town and we must do all we can to keep it."

Mr Steadman stated that he believed the downturn was due to the market in Kendal, and Sedbergh auction being moved to Friday.

"This has lead to a big loss in trade for us.

Last year the Chamber of Trade paid the insurance for the car boot stalls in an attempt to attract new customers.

"However, with the market only attracting two stalls on a regular basis it is now struggling to survive."

The market is held every Wednesday at Joss Lane car park off Main Street.