THERE is a cold wind blowing through a new outdoor market -- and the council hopes to come up with a solution to warm stallholders hearts.

Battling stallholders have been reassured that their chilly plight on the new Albion Street outdoor market site in Leigh has not been forgotten.

A firm of architectural consultants has been commissioned to examine the wind tunnel problems and councillors are awaiting a report.

But traders have called for an early solution after last week's gales magnified the market's wind tunnel problems.

The bad weather forced traders to pack-up and leave mid-morning as the wind gusted through the site. It was the first time traders had packed up early since the new market venue was opened seven months ago.

The angry traders were told to leave their pitches in the Spinning Gate square 14 months ago. They were initially given a temporary site on Gas Street. During this time their number has dwindled. Those who remain are calling for rent reductions and compensation for lost business.

Chairman of the Leigh Town Centre Management Committee, Cllr Brian Jarvis, said: "The matter was discussed at last week's meeting when members were informed that we have commissioned a firm of architectural consultants to examine the problems.

"Once we have received their report we will look at the recommendations, costings and other implications before making the next move."