ORGANISERS of a street fair in Crewkerne have defended claims the event caused ‘ridiculous’ traffic chaos in the town.

Traders and rush-hour commuters were brought to a standstill as diversions around Market Square caused delays.

Some people reported a 40-minute hold-up driving their children to school and one businesswoman, who did not wish to be named, branded the diversions ridiculous after her staff were trapped in queues.

Sandra Shore, of The Rotary Club of Crewkerne District, said despite the ‘bad start’ to the fair due to the traffic, the event proved a big success.

She said: “The Rotary Club would like to thank the residents of Crewkerne for their continued support of the fair, which was only marred by some of the diversion signs being stolen and others being placed in different positions during the course of Thursday night, which resulted in the traffic chaos on Friday morning.

“Whoever was responsible for this caused a lot of people untold problems on Friday and their actions could well have resulted in a serious accident.

“The Rotary Club took considerable time to ensure that traffic would flow quickly through the town and cause minimal disruption.

“Whoever removed the signs acted in a very irresponsible and thoughtless manner. The club offer their sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused.”

The winners of the children’s art competition were presented with their prizes, given by Edward Danter’s Fun Fair, on Friday evening.

That was followed by the opening of the fair by the Mayor, Cllr Robin Pailthorpe, funfair owner Edward Danter and the town crier.

Visitors to the fair enjoyed a fun-filled evening on the rides, with children cuddling up to Mickey Mouse, Peppa Pig and Snow White.

Saturday started with market stalls in Falkland Square, which were well attended, with the fair starting up again at 2pm.