TWO markets could merge to prevent them both being closed.

The option is believed to be the most likely of six options being considered by the council to save the loss-making markets of Horwich and Westhoughton.

A report to councillors warned that "radical solutions" were needed if the two town markets were not to meet the same fate as small markets which have gone under across the country. Both are reported to be trading badly.

Closure is another of the options mooted by a town hall think tank examining the future of Horwich and Westhoughton markets.

The other possibilities are refurbishment, creating two new markets, selling the markets to private companies and boosting partnership arrangements.

Cllr Donald Grime, executive member for direct services, said: "Small markets don't seem to be doing particularly well anywhere, although Farnworth is an exception. However, the two problems ones are Horwich and Westhoughton.

"Doing nothing is not an option and closing the markets would be the last resort. There are traders whose livelihoods are at stake and customers want markets there. It's also unclear what the impact would be on other businesses nearby.

"We have to take their wishes into consideration but the bottom line is we have to make the markets financially viable."

He stressed that no decision had yet been taken on the council's favoured option.

Some Westhoughton traders have suggested a merged market could be sited in the town's Pavilion Square.

But ward Cllr David Wilkinson admitted he had doubts about how successful the idea would prove.

He said: "I would certainly prefer to see a market available but I can't see it working for Horwich people having to travel to Westhoughton."

An attempt to revive Horwich Market's flagging fortunes by opening on Wednesdays as well as Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays has been seen as largely unsuccessful.