WI says Henry VIII's charter backs their bid for market in town square

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Yet one brave council has refused to let the WI hold a market in its town square - despite the idea being supported by Royal decree.

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WI members want to hold a market in the town square in Colyton - and say they are backed by a charter laid down by Henry VIII

The ladies of the Colyton branch in Devon insist they have already been granted permission in a charter laid down by Henry VIII.

The historic decree, which was drawn up in 1546, allows markets to be held three times a week in the town centre "for ever".

But Devon County Council has over-ruled the document - which hangs in the town hall - because it doesn't want to close surrounding roads.

Officials claim the charter cannot over-rule the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, which does not allow roads to be closed for markets.

Yesterday, the WI were forced to hold the 20-stall market - selling a range of fresh local produce from venison to fudge - in a churchyard near the square.

Branch president Jacky Roberts-Wake, 66, said: "Henry VIII said we are allowed to hold a market three times a week 'for ever' - and he wasn't a person to mince his words.

"The market is a wonderful event that promotes good local food.

"If we held it in the square it would benefit the whole town and help bring in trade to shops and businesses.

"To turn it down over traffic regulations is ridiculous.

"We are determined to fight for our right to use the square as it was always intended.

"It makes you wonder what Henry would make of it all - I should imagine he would have been rather less diplomatic in his approach to the council."

Around 100 residents have signed a petition calling for the market to become a regular event in the town.

Last night a spokesman for Devon's county highways department said its hands were tied because "there is no legal mechanism for the road to be closed".

But Mrs Roberts-Wake insists the market does not block any major routes and traffic can use the other roads freely.

The square and surrounding lanes are already closed to vehicles once a year for the town's September carnival, she added.

A council spokesman said: "The County Council is considering the WI's claim that the ancient charter still applies and whether it would permit the market to take place."