Bath Christmas Market cancelled because of coronavirus concerns

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Bath's iconic Christmas Market event will not take place this year, Bath and North East Somerset Council has confirmed.

The local authority said the decision follows advice from Public Health England on the coronavirus crisis and concerns around social distancing.

Kathryn Davis, Chief Executive of Visit Bath, said: "It is disappointing that we cannot hold the Christmas Market this year, but I hope everyone will understand the reason for this decision and the early notice we are giving."

“We are pro-actively working with partners across the city to create a Christmas event in Bath that will still support our local economy, but in a way that can be adapted as needed and disperses visitors across the city."

A variety of items are usually available at the market Credit: ITV News West Country

BANES, Visit Bath, Bath BID and Bath Festivals are all working together to create an alternative programme of events instead.

This could include decorating the city, music and entertainment, cultural events, street stalls and artisan food - which will all follow coronavirus restrictions and keep members of the public separated.

Councillor Dine Romero, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: "We echo the sadness that the market is not happening this year but welcome the decision to put public health and people’s safety first.

"Thanks need to go to everyone who makes it such a well-run and special festive feature."

"Our message is that Bath is still open, however Christmas will look a little different this year so we can all enjoy it safely and we hope to be back to normal next year and celebrating the 20th Christmas market.”