Wallingford farmers’ market traders have warned it could close unless more people shop there.

Numbers have been dwindling at the market’s monthly visit to the town, and the farmers who sell fresh produce have warned that shoppers must “use it or lose it”.

Caroline Tyler, of Old Farm Shop, Milton Hill, said: “If the people of Wallingford want it then they must support it.

“It used to be one of the best markets in the area. It was really good, and a lot of people came and supported it. There was always a lot more general public there.”

About 20 traders sell their wares at the market on the third Tuesday and the fifth Saturday of the month. The next markets are scheduled for next Tuesday and December 15.

Ms Taylor said: “We don’t really want to lose it, but people need to come to the market. I suppose the recession is taking hold — everybody is watching what they spend. People have either forgotten that we are there, or they just need a little bit of a reminder.”

Tim Lobb, of Brookleas Fish Farm, East Hendred, said: “There was phenomenal demand when the market was first set up eight years ago, and it held up very well for years.

“In the last year and a half, there has been a gradual decline. It’s getting to the point where some of the traders who are travelling some distance are going to start dropping out.

“I don’t know how shopkeepers are doing in Wallingford, but it seems very quiet when we are there. Unfortunately, when people are feeling the pinch, they start looking elsewhere, which is why supermarkets seem to be doing better than ever despite the recession.

“It would be sad to seee some of these farmers’ markets fall off because of footfall, but Wallingford’s seen a very substantial drop-off. For a small town, it used to be really well supported.”

Mayor of Wallingford Dee Cripps said: “The market is extremely important. It would be very sad if it ceases to come. We were one of the first towns to set it off and it seems such a shame if this is happening.”