GOOSE Fair traders have rejected a ten per cent increase in rents proposed by Tavistock Town Council.

The council wanted to up the rents by ten percent this year, six per cent next year and three per cent in 2002.

Cllr Ted Sherrell said: 'I think what we are requesting seems to be perfectly fair. I understand the Showmans' Guild is formidable opposition but Goose Fair in recent years has been one of our assets — now more than ever we have to maximise it.'

Mr Sherrell said he understood rides had risen in price 'considerably' last year.

'I believe we should pursue these figures,' he said.

Councillors agreed the policy of covering increased costs and expenses should be pursued and finance chairman Cllr Norma Woodcock suggested an alternative of six per cent per year for the next three years should be suggested to the traders.