People have been encouraged to share their ideas on how the Bluebird Market can be given a new lease of life.

But after what was described as a “lively” meeting on Monday, the future of its existence in Market Square is uncertain.

The weekly trading event was created by the Town Team who were set up to submit an application for Dover to become a Portas Pilot town.

But when the bid was unsuccessful, the team decided to try to attract more business and more visitors to Dover.

Ideas have included the Bluebird Trail, the Tuesday market and a scheme to mentor new businesses starting up in Dover.

Members addressed residents through Facebook: “After a lively open meeting on Monday, we want your input on the future of the Bluebird Market – how can we give it a boost or has it had its day?”

A later post read: “Every Tuesday, Dover’s Bluebird Market is looking for new traders. All you need is a chair and quality stock to sell.”

The social media post led to a trail of comments from Dovorians making suggestions as to what should be sold at the market.

Max Headroom posted: “More diverse stalls, deli meat, salami and a locally made cheese stall would be a start.”

Stallholder Kalona Simmons added: “I have been selling at the market since it opened in the Newson’s shop.

“Last year there was a high percentage of excellent quality craft and handmade goods, and we were well supported by Dover locals and visitors.

“However,this year has been dire from the off.

'This year has been dire from the off.' - Stallholder Kalona Simmons

"With better sales likely elsewhere traders opt to go to those venues and many have decided not to come to Dover at all.”

Town team member and director of Pebbles Community Facilities on the seafront, Cllr Sue Jones, said: “We all know that it is dying – but we want to fight for it.

“We had the 12 stalls and wanted them to be for local people, giving them the chance to trade.

“But everyone has noticed that footfall has been down in the last two weeks of August.”

Views from the public will be discussed at a Town Team meeting on September 18.

Improvement suggestions should be emailed to team@dovertown.co.uk or comments should be made on the Facebook page.