MALTON'S historic Market Place is an under-used asset which could become a focal point for helping to regenerate the town's economy, believes Steve Smith, who last weekend master-minded the successful motor show.

"It is a marvellous auditorium and an asset which could be invaluable to Malton if we could explore new ideas for events," said Mr Smith.

Last Sunday saw the entire Market Place and surrounding streets packed with people, trade stands and stalls and crowds of people.

"The area is surrounded by cafes, pubs and shops and I'm sure we could do more to boost Malton, especially in the summer months on Sundays," said Mr Smith, of motor dealers Barker Smith.

"The feedback I have had since the motor show has been excellent. Traders and other motor dealers were more than happy with the event. The weather could have been kinder because I think people from such places as Scarborough, where it was raining, decided not to come - even though it was fine and bright in Malton."

The rain elsewhere had also deterred some owners of vintage cars and tractors from making the journey.

Mr Smith praised the large number of shopkeepers who opened their premises, and in particular Tuddle Lane Restaurant, where there was an "alfresco" atmosphere with coffee tables and chairs outside and a French-style accordionist entertaining patrons.

Many shops took advantage of the traffic-free streets to display their wares and stalls occupied the normal traffic-congested shopping areas.

"There were certainly more people at the show this year than last and it was good to have it spread over a much wider area."

Actor and former Heartbeat star Bill Maynard spent over four hours at the show, while Elizabeth Richards, better known as "ER", toured the streets in her role as the look-alike Queen Elizabeth.

The many attractions at the show included a demonstration by North Yorkshire police, a giant bouncy castle, Goodys hairdressing show team, pop groups, and classic vehicle displays. The Green Howards, who were due to give paint-balling demonstrations, failed to arrive because of a broken-down vehicle en route.

Mr Smith praised the many helpers - including Colin Hesford, of Ryedale District Council, who organised the traffic plans and road closures - and Ian Bradley and Graham Johnson, the organisers of the vintage vehicle shows.

"There was a good atmosphere and I'm sure we can build on the show's success for other events to attract visitors to Malton using the splendid old Market Place. The town was built up around it in the past and we should explore other ideas and attractions to utilise its potential."

Malton Town Mayor Coun Ann Hopkinson welcomed the idea of increased use being made of the Market Place.

"I would totally agree that it has the potential to attract more people into the town on a Sunday. Although I appreciate some traders may feel they already work six days a week and it would cost them money to open on a Sunday, I am sure there are many others who would welcome the opportunity to increase their income."

A flower show and similar events could be a major boost to Malton's economy, added Coun Hopkinson. "The motor show was a great success. A lot of organisation and hard work was put into it and credit is due to all those involved."

Dennis Townsend, chairman of Malton and Norton Chamber of Trade, was also enthusiastic about events being staged in the Market Place.

"It is an under-used resource," he said. "We have a lovely market town and it is important that we keep its tradition and at the same time move into the new century."

Mr Townsend said the chamber and the Town Centre Management Company were working together to explore possibilities.

"There are a tremendous variety of opportunities" he added. "There is a willingness to look at ideas. We need a concerted effort to take the possibilities forward."

The motor show, he said, had attracted a large number of people to Malton. "They walked around the centre and businesses which opened did appear to have been quite busy."

Updated: 08:45 Wednesday, July 24, 2002