BUSINESS leaders are hoping an extended spring fair and meet will boost trade in Barnard Castle in the wake of the foot-and-mouth crisis.

The annual events were severely affected by last year's epidemic, which had a knock-on effect on trade in the town.

But businesses are hoping for a revival in their fortunes as visitors return to the market town for the spring events.

This year, the fair and meet will coincide to mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee celebrations, which has brought an extra bank holiday on June 4.

The fair, which is traditionally held in the Galgate Car Park a week earlier than this year's planned event, looks likely to be held from May 30 until June 4.

Organisers have yet to confirm whether they will continue for the extra bank holiday.

An application for permission to hold the spring fair was approved by members of Teesdale District Council's community services committee yesterday, at a hire charge of £1,500 for the council-run car park.

Members also granted permission for the Dales Pony Society to hold its Spring Stallion and Breed Show, on May 4, and for the Robert Brothers Famous Circus to hold an event at some point during the year.

Both events will be held on the Demesnes.