A PROPOSAL to switch the date of Barnard Castle Meet from the traditional Whit weekend met strong resistance at a heated public meeting on Wednesday.

President Andy Willsmore said he had called the meeting to dispel untrue rumours and explain the move, but he was interrupted many times by protestors wanting to speak against the change.

"The committee is not folding; we are not moving because of John Toulson's steam fair, and the police are not charging us for bank holiday overtime," he said.

Following the announcement that the 106-year-old event would next year move forward a month, local woman Angela Grady began a petition in protest, collecting 700 signatures in the first week. She pointed out that she was not getting at the Meet committee, which did a good job. It was the change of date that had prompted her actions.

"People have signed the form because they care," she said. "It has been held at Whit for 106 years, it's not right to move it. Keep it on Whit Monday and accept our help."

Vice-chairman Rowan Jefferies said people might care, but they bleated on and didn't come forward. Every year a cry went out for volunteers, but it was the same faces who ended up doing the work. Yet seven new members had already offered help if the date was changed.

Maureen Hume said she was willing to volunteer, along with others at her table, if the traditional date was retained.

Mr Willsmore said sound financial reasons meant a the move was a good thing. He was asked to produce the business plan and balance sheets, but said they would be available at the annual meeting.

About 360 businesses around the dale had been asked for help, but only five responded. The Meet could not continue as it was. Many people were unable to attend at bank holiday, having other commitments. And things had to be booked so far in advance, that the change of date was agreed.

However, there was then a mutiny from several members of the committee, who appeared to have a change of heart regarding the date.

John Emerson offered £900 from the Round Table to the new committee, whatever date the Meet was held.

The debate raged for quite some time, with Mr Willsmore eventually drawing it to a close by saying that the annual meeting was the place to raise the issues.

"Tonight was to explain the reasons why," he said. "But let's not forget that we are all on the same side in wanting the Meet to prosper."