Window on past as children celebrate market milestone
YOUNGSTERS from Charnwood Primary School children have taken part in celebrations to mark the 800th anniversary of Loughborough Market and Fair.
The children have created artworks as part of a colourful window display at Loughborough Community Library.
Featuring more than 200 images, the display depicts stalls, food, and funfair rides. It will be on show until April.
The first fair was held in Loughborough on July 31 1221 to mark the feast day of Saint Peter. It was in the same year that a charter to hold a market in Loughborough was granted to the Lord of the Manor.
Since then a market and fair have taken place in some form in Loughborough continuously.
The My Magical Market, My Fantastical Fair! children’s art project is being led by the county council’s Culture Leicestershire group.
The aim is to inspire interest in heritage using creativity, and for every child to see their imaginations come to life on the windows of the library.
Councillor Christine Radford,
Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for heritage, leisure and arts, said: “The ancient Loughborough Market and Fair are famous aspects of the town’s history.
“It is fantastic that the community are celebrating the history whilst enabling the younger generation to be involved and play their part.
“The children have created some amazing artwork inspired by the history of the Market and Fair and their unique interpretations brings a whole new dimension. It is great to see such a positive and creative response.”
Councillor Jenny Bokor, lead member for Loughborough at Charnwood Borough Council, said: “This is a fantastic and colourful display about our wonderful markets and fair. I would like to thank the children for being so imaginative and being part of our 800th anniversary celebrations.”
Councillor Dan Harrison, chairman of Leicestershire County Council said: “It was a great experience to see the children’s artwork marking this historic milestone for Loughborough.
“The market and fair are part of local life, but also part of our history too. I’m sure it will continue going strong for many years to come”.