Disruption caused by major road works in Holt did not appear to affect trade in the town yesterday.

Nine days of works on the A148, B1110 and B1149 were due to get under way with sections of the B1149 scheduled to be closed yesterday and today, and other traffic control restrictions in place.

But Holt Chamber of Commerce committee member Lynda Mossman said she understood the work had not yet started.

'We were all worried about the road works but nothing has happened to date,' said Ms Mossman, speaking yesterday evening from her Past Caring vintage clothing shop in Holt's Chapel Yard.

'There are big signs everywhere but everyone says they've managed to get through. I think the 'fun' will begin on Monday.'

Chamber members were among those who feared the works would lead to a drop in trade at a critical time for Holt businesses who say the half-term holiday week gives them a much-needed post-Christmas trade boost.

At the Butler's Pantry, in Appleyard, manager Susie Kemp said at yesterday's close of business: 'We had a very, very slow start to the day but that was probably more to do with the bad weather and we had quite a few in later in the day. Overall, it has been better than we expected and we haven't had too bad a day.'

Holt resident Jono Read, of Hempstead Road, said he had been told the road was still open at 3pm yesterday, although cones had been placed along it, and along the Holt bypass, in the morning.

Truck drivers are being sent on a 21-mile diversion, via Thursford and Saxthorpe, during the closure periods. ? Have you been affected by the Holt road works? Ring Alex Hurrell on 01263 513316.