WILLITON'S Country Market is preparing to bring the shutters down on its 35-year history after announcing it is to close.

A fall in the number of customers and producers, coupled with the tough economic climate, is behind what organisers have described as the "difficult" decision.

Secretary Barbara Heywood, who sells her craftwork at the weekly market, said it had been struggling over the last two to three years.

"Regrettably, the market is no longer sustainable." she said.

"We are all still coming to terms with the decision and feeling quite shellshocked, but we have to accept that it is just not viable."

The market started life under the umbrella of the Women's Institute but adopted its current title some years ago.

It first opened its doors in Williton's Red Cross hut in Killick Way but was forced to find a new venue when the building was demolished in 2007 as part of the construction of new multi-million pound offices for West Somerset Council.

Since then it has been based in the village's Methodist Church, social club and more recently the newly-refurbished parish office.

But despite finally re-establishing a more centralised location, the market currently has just three cooks selling their wares, four craft producers and seasonal sellers of plants, vegetables and fruit.

"There simply aren't enough producers or customers," said Mrs Heywood.

"People can go to supermarkets and pick up things cheaper and it's very difficult when the economic climate is so tough."

The closure option was mooted by the market's committee earlier this year but a final decision could not be taken until all 42 shareholders had been consulted and their views taken into consideration.

"None of the feedback suggested any other option," said Mrs Heywood.

But she said all the Williton producers would be able to take a stall at any of the remaining nine markets run across the county by the Somerset Country Markets organisation.

The market will be held for the final time on Friday December 21 from 9.30am to 11am.

"Grateful thanks go out to all producers past and present and to the loyal customers who have stayed with the market during its changing fortunes," said Mrs Heywood.