DALTON was the trading hub of Furness when Edward III granted a charter for a weekly market and an annual fair in 1239 but in more recent times it has struggled to get the stall holders to come on a regular basis.

The Mail, on Wednesday, May 30 in 2001, noted: "Shoppers soaked up the sunshine at the official opening of Dalton market yesterday.

"The market's new high-profile venue in Tudor Square is part of the town's regeneration programme to recreate the historic town.

"The old market, held in a car park on Nelson Street, suffered badly after the Co-op store in Chapel Street closed.

"Organisers hope the new spot in Tudor Square will attract shoppers and visitors going to the South Lakes Wild Animal Park.

"Five stalls set up shop for the official opening, children's street entertainers wowed crowds with a display - including a fire juggler and a unicylist.

"Morris men danced for the crowds and a group from Full Octave shop played tunes.

"Dalton's new mayor Les Sherman also attended the official opening,"

Town council clerk  Fiona Thomson said: "I think it went very well and the traders were quite happy with the number of visitors and the entertainment.”

The enthusiasm on that first day did not last and the Mail, on Friday, December 6 in 2002, noted: "Dalton's struggling market could face closure after the town council was told to find cash for water rates.

"Only two regular stallholders pitch up at the Tudor Square market and councillors fear their rent alone will not cover the extra expenses.

"The closure of the market would be a bitter blow for the community, which has a market traditions dating back to medieval times.

"Dalton with Newton Town Council runs the market, which operates each Tuesday, and collects £5 weekly rent from each stall holder."

The council had to pay £655 each year in business rates and more for rubbish removal. Now United Utilities wanted £133 per year.

Cllr John Phillipson said: "These charges are totally over the top.

"We are trying to promote a business in the town and it seems we get hit from all sides.

"If we levy these charges on the traders they would no longer come.

"This could be the end for the market."