A COUPLE who run a Tavistock newsagents have been asked to vacate the premises due to 'persistent rent arrears' following a hearing in Plymouth County Court.

The repossession hearing was held on February 10 regarding Mr and Mrs S Franks of Pillars Newagents. The judge found in favour of the premise owners Tavistock Town Council. Mr and Mrs Franks were given 14 days to vacate the premises and pay the outstanding sum of £11,151.

In a statement the town council said: 'It is with regret that the council has been obliged to serve a notice bringing Mr and Mrs Franks' business tenancy to an end.

'Mr and Mrs Franks have been longstanding tenants but the council has been left with no option but to bring their tenancy to an end because of persistent arrears of rent and repeated delays in paying rent when it became due.  The council is very conscious of its obligations when it comes to ensuring all of its tenants are treated fairly, also that people receive value for money from the council's assets and investments.'

Mr and Mrs Franks were unavailable for comment as the?Times went to press.