TRADERS operating near the closed Abbey Bridge say they feel they have been forgotten about and have had to lay off six people due to a huge drop in trade.

Business owners along Abbey Road are closest to the bridge, which has been closed since September and are among those suffering the most.

Many are concerned that things will only get worse after last week’s announcement that the bridge won’t reopen until Friday, December 20, at the earliest.

Mike Arens, who runs the garage behind Abbey Road Garage petrol station, said the two sites had been forced to lay off five members of staff between them.

“We have lost two cashiers from the petrol station. They both had young kids.

"We had an assistant, he is 60, he won’t get another job. And two mechanics, the one lad is married with two young kids. If the bridge had stayed open we would have been okay.”

Mr Arens has taken on an additional job to subsidise his income as his garage is between 80 and 90 per cent down on business.

Chris Bird, of Auto Options and Phoenix Scooters, has also had to say goodbye to one member of staff.

“He was the head mechanic and has four young children,” he said.

At Avonside Motors, owner Ali Aldkish, said: “Everybody forgets about us. We are the ones really affected. As you go to Merstow Green roundabout the first sign you see says road closed.”

Gary Andrews, of Abbey Road Christmas Trees, said he wanted more communication.

“It was only a fortnight ago that I ordered the Christmas trees. Then they are telling me the road is going to be closed.”

Despite asking for help, the traders, including the owners of Tiles Naturally and Abbey Road Nurseries, say they have not received the support they need.

Councillor John Smith, Evesham town member and Worcestershire County Council cabinet member for highways, said: “We are hoping to be in contact with businesses who have access off Abbey Road and discuss their concerns.”

Coun Gerry O’Donnell added: “Obviously it is disappointing there’s been slippage in the timetable. The impact has obviously been worse to one end of the town and I am sad to learn people have been laid off.”

Other businesses affected include Avon Leisure Cruises, which has lost £3,000 since the work began and have been forced to cancel bookings, including one for a silver wedding anniversary.

Measures to help traders have been discussed by VECTA.

These included reduced business rates, advertising parking measures and even a 35ft high inflatable man holding a 20ft banner.

Wychavon has announced a discounted parking scheme has been extended until Christmas.

Parking in short stay car parks in Evesham, Pershore and Broadway is set to become free after 3pm, or 20p on selected festive dates.

In Evesham, the long stay car parks will soon become 20p for all-day parking.

Meanwhile, Evesham Rowing Club has confirmed that it will hold its senior head race on Saturday, November 30.