OVERHEAD covering, more stalls and advertising, maybe an indoor market - these are the things users of Basingstoke's charter market would like to see.

Last week, The Basingstoke Extra reported how stallholders had called for more promotion of the market, which has run in the town for more than 900 years. They said a drop in trade since Easter had caused them to fear for the market's future, but that more advertising would alert people new to the town of its existence, as well as acting as a reminder to current residents.

The leader of the borough council, Cllr Rob Donnelly, said the council would work closely with stallholders to ensure its future.

However, customers at the market have their own ideas on what should be done. Among them was George Chapman, of Kingsclere Road, South View, Basingstoke, who raised the idea of a covered market.

"There's not much that can be done with Market Square, because it's a self contained area," he said. "I think what is needed is some sort of roof covering - a nice indoor market.

"That way, when it's wet, the stallholders would remain dry, the customers would remain dry and attendance wouldn't be affected by the weather so much.

"They could extend the market, down London Street and Wote Street."

Mr Chapman also said that custom would increase if the market was held more than twice a week.

Kariss Thomas, from Slough, who regularly visits Basingstoke, said: "I love using this market and come down whenever I can. One of the reasons is that it's busy, but not too busy. The stallholders are very friendly.

"It could do with more cover - it can be a bit off-putting when it's windy and rainy, and I think that may affect how many people come. But when the weather's fine, it's great."

Kath Langron, of Sycamore Way, Winklebury, Basingstoke, said: "A few more stalls to give us choice would be good. But we come to every market.

"It's part of the town. There's always been a market, and we are used to it. People like it because it's part of Basingstoke.

"It would be a big shame if it went, like it was when the other market at the bus station went.

"It wouldn't hurt if it was advertised more."

Basingstoke market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday in Market Square, at the Top of the Town.