The City Centre Company has cancelled the French market planned as one of the major attractions in the lead up to Christmas.

The market, similar to one which proved a massive success in September, was scheduled to be held over three days from 18 November and was expected to attract thousands of customers.

But the company decided to review the decision after a public outcry over France banning imports of British beef to the continent.

Shirley Kent, Marketing and Communications Manager for the City Centre Company, said public opinion had swayed its decision.

"We booked the market long before the latest beef row but once it all broke out we decided to put the market on review.

"We have monitored the press and judged public opinion which seemed very much against the market. We hold these events for people from Coventry and beyond, so we would not consider something which would be roundly unpopular.

"On top of that the promoters who run these markets have had organisational difficulties, so we thought it was prudent to make the decision now.

"The last market we held proved to be very popular and noticeably increased footfall. If the public and political climate allowed, we would certainly strongly consider holding one again in the future."