A TRADER at a Weston-super-Mare market has announced it will no longer be attending the event following an incident.
Blissful Wellness Treats said it had an "uncomfortable" experience with a member of the public at both its shop premises and the Weston Independent Market.
After raising the issue with market organisers, the business felt its safety concerns were ignored, with the individual not removed from the event at the Italian Gardens.
Following the incident, Blissful Wellness Treats said: "Unfortunately, we will not be attending events held by Weston Independent Market anymore.
"Our trust and faith have completely disappeared after today's actions."
"We will be phoning the police and making a record of this in case anything else happens in the future," it added.
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Responding to the concerns, Weston Independent Market said it is "committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all traders, visitors and members of the public".
A spokesperson told the Weston Mercury: "During the market on Wednesday, July 1, I was made aware of a personal disagreement between two individuals and responded as soon as it was brought to my attention.
"After speaking individually to those involved, I received differing accounts of what had taken place.
“My immediate priority was to de-escalate the situation, prevent any further confrontation and ensure the market remained safe for everyone present.
"As part of that, I asked one of the individuals involved to stay away from a particular stall for the remainder of the event, and they complied with that request.
"A street warden was present during part of the discussion.
"Following that, I was not made aware of any further issues.
“As organisers of an event in a public space, we do not have the legal authority to remove someone solely on the basis of conflicting allegations.
"Any action we take must be proportionate and within the limits of our responsibilities.
“Throughout, my focus was simply to manage the situation calmly, fairly and proportionately, ensuring the market remained a safe and welcoming environment for everyone attending.
"Our focus is on the safety of everyone at the market.
“As this matter may become the subject of further enquiries, it would not be appropriate to comment further.
"However, I would encourage anyone with concerns about harassment or their personal safety to seek advice from the police."
