Downham Market Town Council release statement on ‘war of words’

The latest discussions regarding an ongoing market row have had to be put on hold this week, whilst a statement has bemoaned those who have publicly 'harassed' the town clerk.

Downham Town Council was set to hold a meeting on Tuesday night which included discussions over holding a Zoom meeting with market traders and MP Elizabeth Truss.

However, the council meeting had to be called off due to staff absenteeism and consequential operational demand.

The meeting will be held in due course but a date is yet to be confirmed.

Also on the agenda for Tuesday’s postponed meeting was “a policy to deal with abusive, persistent or vexatious complaints”.

It comes after market traders have been vocal on social media platforms and to the media regarding the council’s handling of the market.

A statement has been released by the town council this week speaking out against those who have criticised town clerk Elaine Oliver.

It says: “The current war of words against our clerk is harassment, unacceptable and frankly unfair.

“In difficult circumstances she has maintained an air of professionalism, which is sadly lacking in some of the people who have taken it on themselves to make this a personal issue.

“They have posted private information on social media, been very abusive on the phone and incited others to do the same. Sadly, all of this is having a detrimental affect on the clerk, staff and councillors.”

It said the clerk has not been responsible for the Covid measures, nor any actions taken in respect to the market.