A BOAT-BUILDER is appealing for help from the commercial landlords as he has just six weeks to relocate his business.

Martin Clacy – better known to many as Banger – is being evicted from his current workshop located next to Salcombe fire station in Gould Road.

Banger explained that his landlord had sought planning permission for two commercial units on the site and was hoping to sell it with the planning permission.

Banger has been looking for alternative premises in the town but, as yet, has been unsuccessful.

He said: 'As you look down Island Street you may think that there are some empty units – but they are all owned and apparently in use.'

Banger has been working from his current site for seven years and previously worked from Island Street. He has been running his own business in the town for 15 years.

As well as being a skilled tradesman he is also the crew manager at Salcombe fire station and his current location could not be better for responding to emergency calls.

Banger said: 'It also puts the crew at risk if I have to relocate out of Salcombe, as I will not be able to respond quickly.'

Banger has been in touch with the harbour authority and South Hams Council to see if there is any land in the town that he could use.

But as time is getting short, Banger is asking if there is anyone in town who might be able to help.

He said: 'The ideal would be to lease or buy my own property but that is unlikely.

'Moving premises is expensive and time consuming so I would, obviously, rather only do it once.

'If worst comes to the worst I will move to a barn in Malborough – but that would only be a short term solution.'

South Hams MP Dr Sarah Wollaston said: 'All over the South Hams small boat-building businesses are coming under pressure.

'I can look at the longer term solution but this is an immediate issue. Can anyone help Mr Clacy?'

Banger added: 'There are two issues, finding a new premises that is affordable and the effect this will have on the town fire service. If it comes to it, I would have to think long and hard about my career.'

Anyone who may be able to offer a solution can contact Banger on 07976 586966 or email [email protected]">[email protected]