However, this is simply not the case, as is evident if you look at neighbouring towns such as Ashbourne, Bakewell and Glossop or further afield perhaps to Skipton or Uttoxeter where markets are thriving.

So what are the common elements that make for successful markets?

First and foremost, they need to be situated in the centre of towns where there is highest footfall. They then need to have a clear focus and a coherent, attractive and user-friendly format and layout. They also need clear and expert input, support and promotion from the local authority.

This is not rocket science but we seem to be getting the basics badly wrong in Buxton. If we want to remain a market town we surely have to accept a couple of self-evident truths. First, the market place is no longer the correct place for the market.

To say that in winter it is inhospitable is to put it mildly, but also the remodelled market place and the lack of a formal market infrastructure mean that its incoherent layout and sparse stalls now present more as a car park than as an attractive and welcoming place to shop or browse.

Secondly, decline is not inevitable, but it will happen if there is inadequate commitment and enthusiasm from the local authority and the market remains in the wrong place in terms of footfall.

So, if we do want to remain a market town perhaps there needs to be some creative and proactive thought put into its resurrection, starting with where else the market could go, and perhaps how it might be linked to other events, fairs and markets that we have.

If the Council is looking for volunteers to help with this then I, for one, would be happy to help!

Rachel Purchase

Hall Bank

Buxton