Low-key return for Christmas market
NOTTINGHAM’S Christmas Market got off to a slow and steady start on a grey Monday morning.
It was a different scene to that when crowds of people flocked to the 2020 event on a Saturday when the city was under Tier 3 restrictions, leading to the event being axed after just one day.
With Nottingham no longer under lockdown and no current restrictions, it seemed that no-one was rushing to check out the stalls, rides and bars around Old Market Square.
There are some familiar sights – the traditional chalet stalls selling cosy scarves and tempting cheeses, the Helter Skelter bar with mulled wine, children’s rides and, of course, the 60ft Norway spruce Christmas tree.
Among this year’s new attractions are the Apres Ski Bar, the 33m big wheel and an igloo village.
Stallholders said they were glad to be back after last year’s fiasco, when they barely had chance to open.
Vincent Henderson, who is selling luxury scarves and gloves in Smithy Row, said: “It’s good to be back. We have done this for the last five years.
“I set up on the first day last year and it was such a shame but it was just the situation.
“If all is well and good we’ll be here for the duration. I’m hoping for a lovely festive period.”
Stallholder Mark Chowdhury, of Burton Joyce, skipped the event last year but is back for the ninth time with the Old Grain Store selling glass Christmas decorations.
He said: “Optimistically I think it will be very good as people seem to want to let their hair down and enjoy themselves after the sacrifices they have made.”
Hannah Barker, who runs a German kartoffel stall, said: “It was a nightmare last year – we ended up giving some food away to shelters.
“Hopefully it will be really good. I think it will be better opening on a Monday rather than everyone rushing here on a Saturday.”
Some visitors, who had come to Nottingham for a spot of Christmas shopping, didn’t realise the market was opening but were happy to chance upon it.
Lorna Parker, 35, and her mum Helena Platts, 70, from Bamford in Derbyshire, were browsing some of the stalls.
She said: “I’m without the kids for the day and came Christmas shopping. I had no idea this was on. We didn’t go shopping anywhere last year.”
Ms Platts added: “If people remain sensible it shouldn’t be a problem.”
Missing this year are the ice rink, the Sur La Piste alpine-style bar, the Ice Bar and the toboggan ride.
Instead, thirsty punters can enjoy a hot chocolate, a pint or a glass of prosecco at the Apres Ski Bar Bar, in Slab Square, which has wooden benches both inside and out.
Also new is the igloo village in Trinity Square which has eight bookable igloo pods, surrounded by snow-capped Christmas trees, for a festive tipple.
Andrea Yates, her daughter Lily, and friend Anita Hall, all from Lowdham, were among the first to sample its delights, with a glass of mulled wine, cosy blankets and festive music.
Ms Yates said: “It’s perfect – ideal for this year. I really like it. It’s very festive. I think it will be popular.”
Spokesman Steven Woodward said: “It’s the perfect Christmas idea. I think it will appeal to a lot of people. People can book here at the bar and we’ve already taken some bookings today.”
As in previous years, armed police officers are patrolling the market on a daily basis as a precaution to keep the public safe.
Councillor Eunice Campbell-clark, portfolio holder for leisure, culture and schools at Nottingham City Council, said: “The restrictions and challenges we’ve all faced over the past 18 months have made this Christmas even more important for people.
“We have worked hard with our partners to help ensure that all visitors can enjoy the city centre safely over the coming weeks. However, we must remember that Covid is still with us so please take care of each other, Nottingham.”
The 2021 Christmas switch-on in Nottingham is not being publicised to prevent large crowds from gathering in Old Market Square. The festive lights will be turned on in a very low-key ceremony but the date and time are not being revealed.
Lord Mayor Councillor David Trimble will flick the switch, joined by children from Top Valley.
A council spokesperson said: “The reason is to avoid crowds. It will be filmed and we will be issuing a video of the event.”
A 60ft Norway spruce will be lit up with 4,000 twinkling bulbs in front of the Council House, which is adorned with a snowflakeinspired lighting display.