Traders in Market Drayton hope a new event inspired by national retail guru Mary Portas will provide a boost after it was claimed it was the most abandoned town centre in Shropshire.

Market Drayton has been selected to host a free event called My Town, Our Future at the Festival Drayton Centre on Thursday. It is inspired by Queen of Shops Ms Portas, who shares tricks of the trade to help keep small shops going.

Last month it was claimed Market Drayton was the most abandoned town centre in Shropshire.

Residents and business owners claiming empty sh ops were not being replaced and landmark buildings had become eyesores.

But following the themes of Ms Portas’s BBC2 series Mary Queen of Shops, retail trainers will give people the chance to develop ideas for their own retail businesses.

Andy Brown, chairman of Market Drayton Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said: “The event is a good thing for traders. Any initiative that helps support the town centre and traders is a good thing.

“There are a few traders in the town struggling since parking charges were brou- ght in so any initiative is good. Training is the backbone and the town needs training because it can bring new people and new ideas.”

The event will start at 5.30pm and will feature information about apprenticeships, short courses and the opportunity to talk to other businesses.

Shropshire councillor Mike Owen said: “This market town is full of dedicated business people who are passionate about its future.

“This is an excellent event which will help support them.”

Brian Gillow, Shropshire councillor for Market Drayton East, said: “I look forward to attending this event and expect it to come up to the retailers’ expectations.”

Shropshire councillor Roger Hughes, for Market Drayton West, said: “This is an exciting event.”

By Chrissy Symmons