Yorkshire Christmas Markets Affected by Storm Warnings

Strong wind warnings associated with the approaching Storm Darragh have led to the cancellation of three Christmas markets scheduled for the weekend in Yorkshire. According to the city council, Leeds Christmas Market in City Square, along with other attractions on adjacent streets, was slated for closure on Saturday, with a planned reopening on Sunday. Make It York, the organizers, stated that York’s Christmas Market would also not operate on Saturday, citing that the anticipated strong winds and heavy rainfall would result in “unsafe conditions for both trading and visiting”. Concurrently, the Malton Christmas Festival, which was scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday, has been entirely called off because the weather presents “a serious safety concern,” according to its organizers. A spokeswoman representing Leeds City Council confirmed that the Christmas Market, the Ice Cube rink, and the stalls and rides situated in Millennium Square, Cookridge Street, and Victoria Gardens, would all remain shut on Saturday. She further indicated that the Wheel of Light illuminated big wheel would similarly be inoperative, and the Artisan Market on Bond Court would be closed throughout the entire weekend because of the predicted storm. Individuals planning to visit the market or events on Sunday were advised to consult social media updates from Visit Leeds or Leeds City Council beforehand. The spokeswoman emphasized that the “priority” was the safety of both staff and customers. “All affected ice rink customers will be contacted directly with regards to refunds.” She concluded by stating, “We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.” Make It York issued a statement explaining that the decision to keep the Christmas Market closed on Saturday was prompted by the forecast of heavy rain and winds reaching speeds of up to 55-57mph. A spokesperson affirmed, “The safety of our traders, visitors, and staff remains our top priority.” “While this decision has been made independently, we are also aware other Christmas markets are closing in response to similar adverse weather conditions.” “We will review the forecast on Saturday afternoon and provide an update regarding trading on Sunday 8 December as soon as possible.” Mark Brayshaw, head of Visit Malton CIC, in announcing the cancellation of the Malton Christmas Festival for the weekend, stated: “While visitors to Christmas markets are typically prepared for cold temperatures and occasional rain, the forecast gale-force winds present a serious safety concern, especially as many of our traders rely on gazebos and a marquee. “After closely monitoring the weather and consulting with our marquee supplier, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the event this weekend.” The Met Office has issued a rare red wind warning for certain western regions of the country for the upcoming weekend, indicating that extreme weather conditions are anticipated. Concurrently, a yellow wind warning, signifying the possibility of severe weather, has been issued for numerous areas across the UK, including Yorkshire, valid from 15:00 GMT on Friday through 06:00 GMT on Sunday. Additionally, a yellow rain warning has been issued for Yorkshire, effective from 06:00 GMT to 23:59 GMT on Saturday.