Burnham-On-Sea traders experienced a mixed weekend of Bank Holiday trade despite large numbers of visitors in the town.
Burnham town centre was busy throughout the weekend on one of the first holiday weekends of the year, but visitors were not spending, said traders.
“It’s not been a good weekend – there have been lots of people about but they’re simply not spending,” confirmed Janet Probert, who runs the With Love gift shop in Burnham High Street. “It’s been disappointing.”
Di Lamb from Burnham’s Discount Superstore added: “Bank Holiday Monday was quiet, but the rest of the weekend was fairly busy, although people aren’t spending big amounts.”
Bastins’ Carol Jones agreed: “There have been lots of people in town, but people just don’t seem to have the money at the moment.”
Shoe Zone’s Pat Bentley added: “It’s not been a bad weekend – the weather hasn’t helped us, but we can’t complain overall.”
Several businesses reported strong trade, completing the mixed picture. Wendy Davey at Julians gift shop in the High Street said: “There have been lots of people about and it’s good to see the town busy, which helped us.”
Les Barber at Bessies Sweet Shoppe agreed: “It’s been a good weekend – trade has been positive considering the weather was so changeable.”