Knighton (population 3,172) is a small market town as well as area in central Powys (previously Radnorshire), Wales, on the Teme and also the England-- Wales border. A small part of the town, including Knighton railway station, remains in Shropshire, England. This Anglo-Saxon settlement later ended up being a Norman fortified town. The community has a variety of stores serving a huge rural hinterland and also employing 18% of the active population and is, after production (18.81%), the biggest employment market. Otherwise, and in common with several villages, Knighton has little sector. The majority of young people leave after finishing their education and learning. Tourist is critical and also, as a result, the area was struck hard by the foot as well as mouth epidemic of 2001. Although incomes are reduced and also 20%+ of homes have no vehicle, Knighton has an unemployment price (2001) of just 2.88%. Duty for financial growth lies with the Welsh Assembly Government. Knighton seclusion makes it a not likely selection for the commuter and, consequently, most of the working population (69.45% in 2001) work within a 12 miles (19 km) Travel to Work Area. The Welsh name, Tref-y-clawdd, suggesting "community on the dyke", was first recorded in 1262 and also formally given to the community in 1971. The name Knighton possibly originates from the Old English words cniht (a soldier, individual fan, young man, slave, thane or freeman) and also tun (farm, negotiation or homestead). Thus it may have been founded via a give of land to freemen.