Councillor insists Chesterfield's Christmas market will be safe after Nottingham fiasco

A festive-themed variation on the town centre’s monthly artisan market is set to take place on Sunday, 20 December, selling local produce and unique gifts.

It comes after Nottingham’s Christmas market was shut down last weekend when huge crowds gathered and ignored social distancing rules.

Similar annual events in towns and cities across England have been cancelled because of the pandemic and Nottingham City Council has since apologised for ‘getting it wrong’.

Cllr Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Our open air market is at the very heart of our local community, and has been trading safely in line with Government restrictions throughout the course of this year.

“We’re committed to supporting small businesses through our town centre outdoor markets, such as the Artisan Market which runs once a month – but of course, safety has to be the first priority.”

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Chesterfield remains subject to Tier 3 restrictions, which will be reviewed on 16 December.

Cllr Sarvent added: “Traders present will operate in line with current Government guidelines and we have been working closely with organisers, The Market Co. who have put together appropriate risk assessments to ensure it meets Covid-19 safety procedures.

"We also ask anyone attending to make sure they follow the current Government guidance.”

One hundred and 39 positive coronavirus cases were confirmed in Chesterfield in the seven days to 5 December – the latest date for which reliable data is available – an increase of five from the previous week.