Abingdon's Chamber of Commerce is asking people whether the annual Michaelmas Fair should be moved out of town.

It said the two-day fair could stay in the centre, be reduced in size or move to the outskirts.

The fair was incorporated into the Town Charter of 1556.

Under the Oxfordshire Act of 1975, the fair is mentioned as one of the established street fairs that the town council is obliged to hold.

Its supporters point out that to move it would involve an expensive legal process and an Act of Parliament.

Chamber president Howard Aldridge said some businesses had complained about noise, disturbance and loss of trade following this year's event.

"I know that a lot of people welcome the fair, but some residents in the town centre area complained about traffic problems," he said.

"Ock Street was closed for most of the day to traffic and that caused problems for people living in the street and nearby.

"We're getting mixed messages and would like to hear from people so that we can gain a more informed picture.

"The housing development on the old Morland brewery site is nearing completion and work will start next year on more homes behind the old Regal cinema, so a lot of new people will be living near the town centre."

Council archivist Jacqueline Smith said: "This fair dates back to the 14th century.

"As I understand the position, if it was decided to move the fair out of the town centre, it would require an Act of Parliament and a legal process that could prove very expensive."

Mayor Audrey Tamplin said a move would be "out of place and inconvenient".

Comments should be addressed to: Abingdon on Thames Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 361, Abingdon.

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