A TRADER in Tadcaster says he is struggling more than ever following the collapse of the town's bridge.

Mike Appleyard has run Calcaria Stoves in Bridge Street for about seven months, and said the business was struggling more than ever following the Christmas flooding.

He said: "We were under four feet of water but was up and running trading a week and a half later. I had to buy new carpets and everything and it's still not finished but we're back open. I understand they are putting in the footbridge and the main bridge needs time to be repaired but I'm getting to the stage where I'm fed up. I have burning stoves - I'm not even bothering to light them now because I'm not getting anyone through the door.

"I myself haven't seen anyone since Saturday. My shop's right next to the bridge and we're all struggling. We would normally get footfall through Tadcaster but with the bridge being shut I'm certainly feeling it. Before Christmas I needed two people in the showroom and now I'm barely seeing anyone."

The store is 21-year-old Mike's first business and he said he was considering

He said: "Bridge Street is a mess, there are skips everywhere and work vehicles. It's tough because I understand people are doing what they can and there's support out there but I'm considering jacking it in while I still have some money left.

"I've had the shop seven months and took about £74,000 in that time. That was to December 18. I was meant to go on holiday and reopen in January. Since the bridge collapsed I've taken about £1,100 if that in six weeks. It could normally be anywhere from £28,000 to £40,000 a month from August through to March and in the winter months."

Mike said he had already been granted £2,500 in flood aid as had other businesses in the area, "but that's gone straight out on rent and bills".

He said: "It's costing me more being open than it would to be shut. I'm getting to the end of my wick with it. People are being helpful in ways they can supporting me and suppliers are quite understanding, but that can't last forever."

See the centre spread for more on the continued turmoil in Tadcaster.