Northamptonshire Christmas Markets Canceled Due to Storm Darragh Forecast

Two Christmas markets in Northamptonshire have been called off following a weather alert. Strong winds and heavy rainfall are anticipated between Thursday and Sunday, associated with Storm Darragh. Oundle Town Council expressed its disappointment, stating, “we’re disappointed as [locals and traders] will be,” regarding the cancellation of the town’s Christmas market. Similarly, Northampton’s Becket’s Park market has been canceled, with town councillor Jane Birch indicating that the danger to attendees was “too great” for the event to proceed. The storm is projected to bring inland winds potentially reaching 50mph (80km/h). Despite the market cancellation, Oundle’s Christmas lights are still scheduled to be illuminated on Friday night, according to the town council. The town’s market had been planned to feature over 100 stalls, brass band performances, and reindeer. Separately, West Northamptonshire Council announced that Christmas activities planned for Northampton Market Square on 7 December will now take place at the Grosvenor shopping centre due to the weather conditions. Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.