AN open air market planned in Taunton this weekend has been cancelled.

Disappointed Taunton Independent Market organiser Michelle Beck pulled Sunday's event on Castle Green due to "changes required to our street trading permit".

She said the new requirements could not be implemented in time and would have limited the number of stalls to 25, which would have made it "unviable".

Ms Beck says she is in talks with Somerset West and Taunton Council to ensure the full licence will be in place to enable the market to return next month.

She told the County Gazette: "We are naturally extremely saddened that the planned event for June has had to be cancelled.

"This would have been the eighth market that we have been able to run on Castle Green since Covid restrictions came into play in March 2020.

"We have, quite literally, weathered many a storm to ensure this popular monthly event takes place, and are committed to keeping it a regular popular event in the town centre.

"However, we do recognise that legislation for outdoor events has changed and therefore want to ensure we comply to make sure that all licensing requirements, as well as health and safety requirements are in place and correct."

The next Taunton Independent Market will be held on Sunday, July 11.

A spokesperson for Somerset West and Taunton Council said: “The Taunton Independent Market due to take place this weekend (June 13) has a consent in place and is supported by the council.

"We understand the organiser has decided to cancel the event for this weekend.

"This is not related to any new Covid restrictions being imposed, and it is a decision made by the event organiser."