Blast-hit traders in protest

Traders took to the streets today to protest over the continued disruption caused to their businesses in the wake of the Shrewsbury explosion.

Traffic was brought to a temporary standstill in Mardol as business owners and staff with placards launched an appeal to save their shops.

Shop owners said they are alarmed over the continuing "drastic drop" in footfall and the lack of a clear explanation as to why there has been a delay in a return to normal since the blast on January 3.

Kathy Conlon-Bailey, manager of the Relate charity shop in Mardol, said virtually every business in the lower end of Mardol was suffering.

She said: "There were about 18 of us protesting, all the shops took part so they were well represented. We had posters with SOS on them for 'Save Our Shops'."

She said traders were unhappy because Shropshire Council had only put up one sign to tell shoppers businesses were open as usual and it was unclear when part of Smithfield Road and Bridge Street would reopen.

Bob Minshall, who works at The Giant Party Shop also in Mardol, said: "The closure of part of Smithfield Road since the explosion has really affected business in this area of town.

"The traders want to let people know that they are still here and open for business."

Last month council officials met representatives from the Shrewsbury Business Chamber and Shop in the Loop to discuss how to promote the town.