End of the road for Harrogate Christmas market

A popular Christmas market event in Harrogate, which could not be staged for the last two festive seasons due to the pandemic, will not be returning.

Harrogate Christmas Market Ltd has confirmed the event it organised on Montpellier Hill for eight years will no longer be taking place.

A joint statement released by organisers Brian and Beryl Dunsby explained: “As a result of Covid, we have been unable to arrange the Christmas Market for the past two years.

“The Harrogate Christmas Market team leaders have now decided not to organise any future markets in Harrogate.  We thank all our super local volunteers, voluntary organisations, local contractors and traders for all their support over the years.

“Our Christmas Markets have attracted over 80,000 visitors per year and supported the local economy by £2.7m per year.

“In 2019 it attracted a total of 187 coaches from around the country and nearly 200 local traders selling local produce or products.

“Harrogate Christmas Market Ltd has provided financial support to a total of 14 local charities and good causes amounting to over £90,000 for the past five years.

“We wish those taking up the challenge of providing a good quality Christmas Market in Harrogate all the best, as we know how hard it is to create something that is truly appreciated by visitors and traders and which supports local businesses.”