Ben Leo discusses Christmas market’s threat
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Cornwall’s beloved Fowey Christmas market will not go ahead this year due to the actions of “a handful of individuals”, a spokesperson has announced.
Organisers of the annual event, one of the biggest Christmas markets in the area, cited the reason for this year’s cancellation on Friday.
The statement read: “It’s news none of us wanted, but the viability of the event over the last five years has been extremely challenging.”
It explains the operational difficulties associated with the annual event, including the challenges posed by “narrow streets, small quays, multiple venues and risky changing tides”.
Organisers said they had been happy to persevere despite these difficulties, as the event brought joy to locals and offered “resilience in a world that seems to be heavy at present”.
The market first began in 2005 to encourage local Christmas shopping and support businesses in the Cornish town.
The statement also accuses individuals with “their own agenda” of derailing attempts to keep the traditional market alive.
Organisers highlighted the rescheduling of the Christmas lights switch-on from the market’s opening night to an alternative date, citing the “direct impact on the viability of the event” caused by the change.
Last year saw the town’s largest-ever turnout for the lights switch-on, prompting organisers to criticise the lack of consideration for local businesses, suppliers and traders, as well as the negative impact of the rescheduling.
Organisers apologised in the official statement.
They said: “This decision has not come lightly. We have done our utmost to deliver this year’s event, and we acknowledge that this impacts many other people and businesses who have planned to visit.
“We have tried our very best to deliver an event for everyone, and we are very sorry to disappoint you all.”
The organisers added: “Stallholders have been contacted already and will receive a refund.
“Suppliers and local businesses have also been informed.”
Over two decades, the event had become a major regional attraction.
It regularly drew tens of thousands of visitors to the historic harbour town.
The market featured 100 to 200 regional artisans, makers, and boutique traders.
Visitors were able to shop for hand-crafted jewellery, home décor, local art, and unique gifts.
It was originally set to begin on December 4 and run for three days.
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