The call came from rector of St Peter's Parish Church, Reverend Peter Haynes, at the start of the church's patronal festival yesterday.

Haynes said the vendors in Speightstown were often underestimated and not seen as people with character and substance who made a contribution.

"We have the syndrome in this country of people judging other people and feeling that they are better off. They feel because they have got better jobs and better education and more money in the bank and a flashy car, that they are better than others."

He added that those looked down upon worked hard and had a positive work ethic.