Spud Man has to move famous jacket potato pitch after being 'kicked off' amid town redevelopment plans

Spud Man, the TikTok-famous jacket potato vendor, has told his legions of fans that he's being forced to vacate his beloved spot in Tamworth town centre due to upcoming council renovations. The much-loved stall, located in St Editha's square, has become a hotspot for foodies, drawing crowds from across the UK and even overseas, particularly after a recent event offering free potatoes nearly brought the town to a standstill.

However, with plans to refurbish and enhance the square, Ben Newman, better known as Spud Man, will have to relocate later this year, though a new location is yet to be determined. The local council has assured that the move is only temporary and is actively seeking a resolution that benefits everyone involved.

In a heartfelt video message to his 3.5 million TikTok followers, Newman expressed his dismay: "Spud fans, I have really bad news. We are getting kicked off our pitch by the council."

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He continued, sharing his affection for his current location: "I love this spot by the church on the square. Absolutely beautiful. And we are getting kicked off. We knew it was coming because they are redeveloping all the square. We didn't realise it was going to happen this soon."

The video, which was captioned "Can't believe I'm getting kicked off" accompanied by a crying emoji, also highlighted the uncertainty faced by other vendors: "Where are we going to go and what are we going to do? I don't know just yet. And it's not just me. It's the whole square: butcher, bread lady, are all getting moved so they can rip this all up and repave it.", reports Birmingham Live.

A market trader is concerned about the impact of plans to refurbish and improve St Editha's Square in Tamworth, saying it will disrupt her business.

The trader, who asked not to be named, said: "So it will be better in the long run and we will be coming back but what do we do in the meantime? The only option they have given to me so far is putting us down on the main high street. A few traders and putting me there with our queue is probably not the greatest idea because I will probably upset most of the other traders."

"I had originally hoped they were going to do it half and half but apparently they are not, they want to do the whole thing in one go."

Stephen Gabriel, chief executive of Tamworth Borough Council, said: "Later this year, all market traders currently using St Editha's Square are being temporarily moved to other parts of the town while we refurbish and improve the square. Discussions are happening now so traders can be prepared and communicate with their regular customers."

"This work is part of our town centre regeneration programme, where St Editha's Square will be made more accessible for all. Work also includes improvements in lighting and areas for people to sit."

"All moves are temporary, and we are working with our local market provider to find everyone suitable space elsewhere in Tamworth town centre and market. Throughout the work, Tamworth town centre and market remain ready to welcome visitors for shopping, leisure and socialising. We thank all visitors and businesses for their patience."

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