Festivals committee decides to cancel Horncastle Christmas Market 2020

In a statement on behalf of Horncastle Festivals Committee members past and present, Councillor Brian Burbidge said: “Following consultation with the 
members of Horncastle Festivals Committee we have decided not to hold this year’s Christmas Market.

“I am very saddened to have to do this as the last two years have been absolutely phenomenal.

“This decision has been made due to the ongoing situation surrounding Covid-19 and with the loss of some of our committee members for various reasons, there is a shortage of volunteers to assist with the organising, set-up and operation of the event.”

He added: “The event planning usually starts in February and continues throughout the year until the day arrives.

“The small and dedicated team spend many hours in meetings organising bookings, stall layouts, entertainment, road closures, Health and Safety, and the specific requirements of stall holders and the town businesses.

“The Christmas Market costs approximately £7,000 to £8,000 to put on each year and is financed by donations from town businesses, stall bookings and others, for which we are indebted.

“However, with the uncertainty of the event being allowed to run, the committee had no choice other than to cancel.

“We have been approached by a business owner with the thought of holding a ‘late night shopping event’ and/or possibly a Sunday market nearer to Christmas.

“Those of us who are able to will assist with time and organisation skills wherever we can should this be something the town and businesses would consider.

“Let us be sure Horncastle Festivals Committee survives to carry on organising events for the town into the future, but we do need more volunteers.

“Given the opportunity and volunteers we would consider a summer event and a Christmas event for 2021 - assuming we are not restricted by Covid or anything else.

“It only remains to say thank you to the volunteers who have helped over the years, the town businesses, Horncastle Town Council for its past donations, ELDC for help with free parking and stall hire, district councillors for lobbying ELDC for us and finally to you - the residents of Horncastle - whose attendance makes the event a great one.

“Thank you all.”