The leader of the council says the fine imposed on a popular farmers’ market is “regrettable”.

The Colchester Farmers Market, run by Suffolk Market Events, was fined £100 for the temporary signs and banners advertising and signposting the event last month.

The company have never had any issues in the multiple other areas where the markets are held and hope that the council will work with businesses by having allocated areas or other alternatives.

Colchester Council leader Paul Dundas said: "The issuing of this fine is regrettable although I understand guidance and warnings had been given prior to this action which was ignored.

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“There are strict rules in place to prevent flyposting and it comes under the same regulations issued a number of years ago regarding A-boards. The Council does have to treat everyone equally and apply regulations consistently

"The Farmers' Market is very welcome in Colchester and I have asked Officers to re-open dialogue again with them to ensure a sensible way can be found to promote the Market locally within the rules.

“I understand a meeting will take place this Friday which I very much hope will find a solution and will keep up active pressure to ensure this does not happen again."

Alex Paul, Co-owner and director of Suffolk Market Events, said: “We would certainly welcome a new discussion about the market and we are delighted to hear that the council are fully supportive of the market.

“We have been really touched and encouraged by the amount of support we have received from local residents in Colchester since this story emerged in the Gazette - many of which are keen to help in any way they can.

“I have not received any communication about a meeting but the Farmers Market will be back on Friday outside the Mercury Theatre so if any council members want to come down and meet us that would be great - and they will also be able to see in person what a valuable asset the farmers market is to the local community.