REGULAR arts markets will be held in Tavistock's Bank Square this summer, after town councillors gave the idea the thumbs up at a meeting last week.

The markets were instigated last year, with the help of West Devon Borough Council. They have proved successful in attracting shoppers to that area of the town and borough members have voted to continue with the events this year.

However, the markets can only be held with the permission of the town council, which holds the market charter for Tavistock.

Robert Plumb, of the borough council, has also asked the town to waive any charges for the markets.

He said: 'We as a borough council do not receive any payment in association with these markets — indeed, we forego our parking revenue and offer support to the organisers in terms of staff time in kind and help with advertising and promotion of the markets.

'This is in return for the benefit they provide for the town and local businesses in the Market Street/King Street area.'

Members of the town's finance committee last week agreed the markets should go ahead, but subject to a £1 per stall per market fee. The decision was due to be ratified by the full council at its meeting on Tuesday night.

The arts markets will take place indoors in Tavistock Pannier Market on Sunday, March 4 and Sunday, April 1. There will be an outdoor market on Bedford Square as part of the music and arts festival on Saturday, May 5, then in Bank Square on the first Saturday of the month from June until October.