A POPULAR market trader has returned to his pitch at the Market House, to the jubilation of his customers.

Last Thursday, Nigel Oates returned to the market, occupying a much-reduced pitch, despite calling time on his 50-year tenure after a 10-week dispute with Ross-on-Wye Town Council, which runs the market.

Nigel said that following the council meeting at which his compromise offer for his pitch had been rejected, got him thinking and said: “I thought about continuing at the market by just turning up and occupying a smaller pitch without any fanfare about my return.

“But my customers had other ideas who said that they were very pleased to see me. I understand that posts were put out on social media stating that I had returned, which also increased the footfall at the market.

“I’m here now and intend staying on a regular basis throughout the year. But it does mean I am squeezing as much as I can into a much smaller space, which has meant the socks and underwear department has had to go.

“I’m not prepared to pay the extra, as in the winter it could be difficult to even make a small profit.”

Maggie Kilcar, who has been waging a campaign on social media for Mr Oates’ return said that Nigel’s return to the market had made her day.

Nigel continued: “I’m always pleased to be here in Ross. I’m mixing with my customers, many of which I’ve known for decades. It’s been constant throughout the day with people telling me it’s nice to see me back.”

Councillor Milly Boylan, who also dropped in on the market, said: “Nigel’s return is welcome. It is obvious from what I’ve seen, he is well liked as lots of women have been queuing up to talk to him.”