A MARKET boss has called for more chairs after a fight broke out in the food court.

Two middle-aged men were involved in a stand-off after one had sat in the other’s seat when he temporarily left his table.

Ellesmere Port Market secretary Brian Hannaway says up to 40 chairs are missing in the food court due to breakages and wear and tear over the years, and has demanded the council replaces them – before someone gets hurt.

Mr Hannaway says there aren’t enough seats to go round.

“The majority of tables have only got two chairs and three of the tables only have one chair,” he said. “When it gets to lunchtime, imagine the chaos that creates.

“On Saturday there was a stand-up fight between customers because of the seats.

“Nothing has been replaced. When you ask the council they say we’ve got no money. Environmental Health say it’s nothing to do with them.

“The way they’re cutting back on staff, there’s bound to be departments where they’ve got rooms that have got chairs in that are not being used. A half decent chair would only cost £5-£10.”

He added: “The food area was quite busy – someone had gone to one of the cafes, put something down on one of the tables. Another customer moved them off the table and sat at the table because there was no chairs anywhere else. There was a bit of a scuffle.

“It doesn’t project a very good image to people who aren’t from the area.”

A Cheshire West and Chester Council spokeswoman said: “The council is aware that a number of tables and chairs need replacing and market staff will meet cafe operators to discuss this.”