A SECOND trader prosecuted for displaying an A-board outside his shop has hit out at Bournemouth council's "double standards."

Kevin Old, franchise owner of Cash Generators in Christchurch Road, was forced to admit defeat after losing a year-long battle with the council.

He had even offered to take out insurance to cover the advertising board and bicycles he displays outside the shop.

But Bournemouth council said this was not possible and instead took him to court. The council had previously prosecuted hairdresser Tony Brown of Browns salon for a similar offence, as we reported last month.

Mr Old believes the action taken against him is unfair when market traders are allowed to display their wares just a few feet away from his Boscombe shop.

He said: "If you look up and down the pedestrianised area of Christchurch Road, there are empty plant pots, fountains, bikes tied to railings, all sorts. What is the difference?

"We are a small business in a run-down area trying to make a living and create employment and investment. Why are they trying to stop us from doing this?

"Why is the market not a danger but bikes outside my shop are? It's narrow-minded and pathetic."

The court order means officers from Bourne-mouth council will now be able to remove items that are placed on the highway.

John Satchwell, for Bournemouth council, said: "I am pleased that we have the support of the court in this case, which I hope will act as a catalyst to other traders to comply with the Highways Act 1980 and remove their goods and advertising boards from the highway.

"I hope that this prosecution sends a clear message to other offenders all across the borough that obstructions on the pavements and highways are unacceptable."

First published: May 25