AN investigation will be mounted into the cost of mounting a flexible banner at the entrance to Tavistock Pannier Market now new ropes and pulleys are in place outside the building.

At last week's properties meeting, town clerk Roger Howard told councillors the job required a four-man team due to the length of the ropes used to haul the banner up — and manpower was limited.

'We could certainly put the banner up first thing Monday morning, however it would have to come down in the morning on a Friday,' he said.

Cllr Ken Sanders, chairman of the committee, pointed out that due to health and safety regulations, even people holding the ladder needed training.

Cllr Pat Warne said: 'It's our market and the traders in there feel they want some support from us in this respect.

'I do think it's our responsibility — how can we have a budget and then not put up a banner advertising the businesses in this town?'

Cllr Robin Pike suggested longer ropes might mean using less manpower.

It was agreed the town clerk should work out the cost to the council of putting up the banner each week.