A STREET sellers event has been cancelled less than a week before it was set to go ahead due to "unforeseen circumstances".

The 'Farmyard Fiesta' themed activity day, organised by Salisbury City Council, will no longer be going ahead on Sunday, September 8.

This publicly-funded event was part of a series of "cost-effective" business opportunities for established traders, small businesses or hobbyists.

Running on the second Sunday of the month, street sellers returned to Market Place in April with 'Dino Day' and a range of themes followed.

Read more: ​Street sellers return to Salisbury - how to apply for a stall

But this month's event has been cancelled and residents have expressed outrage at the council's lack of transparency.

In a post uploaded to social media on Wednesday, September 4, a spokesperson for Salisbury City Council wrote: "We are sorry to announce that the Street Sellers Farmyard Fiesta scheduled for this Sunday, September 8, has been cancelled.

"We understand the disappointment this may cause and apologise for any inconvenience this may bring.

"Please stay tuned for updates on future events. Thank you for your understanding."

Street sellers events were set to return to Market Place every second Sunday of the month.Street sellers events were set to return to Market Place every second Sunday of the month. (Image: Ash Mills)

Less than two hours later, the spokesperson commented further: "We are unfortunately unable to operate this upcoming event due to unforeseen circumstances.

"We offer sincere apologies and look forward to welcoming you back for our next event in October."

Salisbury City Council refused clarify why the event had been cancelled when approached by the Journal.

Residents took to the comments section to let their dismay be known with one person describing the council's response as an "easy cop out".

They added: "Why would anyone want to do future events if this is what happens?

"People pay money for stock in preparation for these events."

Longstanding retailer Paul Smith, who owns Vinyl Collectors and Sellers in Cross Keys, said businesses are seeing reduced take-ins because of the "traffic chaos" across Salisbury due to the Fisherton Gateway and River Park projects.

Paul Smith owns Vinyl Collectors and Sellers.Paul Smith owns Vinyl Collectors and Sellers. (Image: Newsquest)

Mr Smith wrote: "My guess is past vendors, and I know this to be true by knowing some of them, just are not taking enough cash due to people by passing Salisbury due to traffic chaos.

"Why can't Salisbury City Council be honest with the truth? Shameful and you have to feel sorry for the traders that were signed up, prepared extra stock only for things to be cancelled at short notice."

Another person commented: "Short of a freak weather occurrence or other 'Act of God', there should be no unforeseen circumstances in event planning.

"Could someone from Salisbury City Council markets team please let us know why this has been cancelled on just four days notice?"