MARKET traders claim their "livelihoods have been ruined" since they moved into a new £1.6milllion home.

The anger felt by sellers at Shambles Market has reached boiling point in recent weeks after frequently seeing it far from full since a revamp was completed at the end of March.

Frustrated traders claim the change of scenery from Parliament Street to the purpose built area has left around 15 stalls full out of a possible 80, while takings have plummeted.

Fruit and veg seller John Mannion, 68, is struggling to figure out why sales are down.

"Since we've been here it's been shocking," he began.

"Unfortunately people aren't doing as well and it's down on last year by a long way.

"I don't know what's wrong with the place, but people just don't seem to want to come to markets."

Andy Knight, 50, has run his stall selling a range of homeware items for two years.

He added: "They should have left it in Parliament Street.

"They should move them back and use this space as a piazza so it's something different.

"It's been quiet for the last couple of months since we came back in and even on a Saturday, which is usually a banker, that has been poor."

One trader of seven years, who declined to be named, said: "There are over 80 stalls on the market, and there are on average of only 15 full each day.

"The new kiosks at the far end remain half full, with traders takings down by 50 per cent.

"People's livelihoods have been ruined and City of York Council is completely failing us on every level.

"£1.6 million has been spent and they haven't even completed the most necessary component of our stalls - increasing the overhang so our stock remains dry in the rain."

Chris Price, city centre and markets manager, Make It York has vowed to support the traders by taking their comments on board.

He said: "Having just taken on my new role, my task now is to listen to all views and opinions in respect to markets in York and look carefully at how, collaboratively, we can make improvements.

"We are already formulating plans and ideas and I’d like to reassure all traders that we’re committed to the future success of the Shambles and Farmers markets."