SHOPPERS from as far away as America have rallied behind the battle for the future of Birmingham’s historic markets.

Following the collapse of a deal to relocate Digbeth’s wholesale market last month, traders fear the historic institution could close.

And they say its loss would deal a fatal blow to the neighbouring outdoor, indoor and rag markets.

Those shopping at the market said it was too good to lose.

Visiting from Portland, Oregon, Lee Potter, originally from Essex, and wife Erica, said any threat to the future of the wholesale market was a “disgrace”.

Mr Potter, aged 44, said markets in America were trying to replicate sites like Birmingham’s historic Bull Ring Markets.

“The markets have been here since before records began, it’s a disgrace they could be closed,” he said.

Wife Erica, aged 37, who was visiting Birmingham and the Bull Ring Markets for the first time, said: “It’s not only a pull for local people but for tourists too.

“Why would anybody want to take this away from the area? I love this market, it’s brilliant.”

Shoppers from closer to home urged the council to rethink their decision to axe funding for the relocation of the wholesale markets.

Michael Townsend, aged 54, a furniture salesman from Erdington, said: “My dad used to bring me here to sell Beano and Dandy comics when I was a lad.

“I think it’s atrocious the second city could be without a market.”

Ronald Adams, originally from Birmingham, still visits the markets regularly travelling from Redditch.

The 67-year-old said: “The missus was disgusted because you get such good bargains from here.”

Donald and Janet Jay from Solihull said the city’s heritage was at risk.

Mrs Jay, aged 69, said: “It’s the tradition of it, think it would be devastating (if the market closed).

Mr Jay, aged 72, added: “It all comes down to money.”

Thousands have already signed the traders’ petition with many more signing an online petition here.

City council bosses have said because of the closure of regional development agency Advantage West Midlands there is no cash for the planned original wholesale market relocation to Witton.

However they have vowed to help find another site for the market.

Liberal Democrat Paul Tilsley, a former market trader himself, said he is committed to keeping the wholesale market in Birmingham and the retail markets in the city centre.