Seasonal shoppers check out the treats as one Christmas market goes ahead in Sheffield this weekend

Christmas markets have been cancelled worldwide this year because of the pandemic – but at least one is going ahead in Sheffield.
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The Fox Valley retail park in Stocksbridge is holding its annual festive market from December 4 to 6, as such events are permitted under Tier 3 coronavirus restrictions.

More than 60 local traders are selling fresh produce, drinks, crafts, homewares, beauty products and more.

Seasonal shoppers check out the Christmas goodies at Fox Valley Christmas Market.Seasonal shoppers check out the Christmas goodies at Fox Valley Christmas Market.
Seasonal shoppers check out the Christmas goodies at Fox Valley Christmas Market.
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On December 4 a seasonal edition of Fox Valley’s weekly Friday Market took place place with regular traders attending including Ryan’s Cheese, Old Bridge Bakery and Joseph Cliffe Fishmongers. There were new additions this year at the market including Olde Lockys Fudge, Wax This Way and the Brownie Queen.

The monthly Farmers’ Market returned on December 5 and shoppers were able to stock up for Christmas from stallholders such as Hawkins Distillery gin, Pippeta children’s clothing, Whinstones Barn Interiors, The Yorkshire Print Co and Supersize Sweets.

Today (December 6) from 10am to 4pm traders at the Christmas market will include The Little Box of Luxuries hampers, Rachel’s Books, Halo Sunshine Plant Pots, Veyou Vegan Chocolate and Foxy Crafts.

Stocking up on tasty treats at Fox Valley Christmas Market.Stocking up on tasty treats at Fox Valley Christmas Market.
Stocking up on tasty treats at Fox Valley Christmas Market.

There will be live entertainment across the weekend with performances from Graham Lindley, saxophonist Andy Cahill, the Yorkshire Imperial Band and Georgie Harrison.

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Stalls are going to be spaced out to allow for social distancing, hand sanitiser will be available and a one-way system is planned.

Major Christmas markets such as the traditional festivities in Sheffield city centre and at Chatsworth were pulled weeks ago.

A report this week suggested the decision to cancel the Sheffield market on Fargate would cost the city’s economy £47 million.

Fox Valley Christmas Market gets underway as they are allowed under the Covid rules in Tier-3Fox Valley Christmas Market gets underway as they are allowed under the Covid rules in Tier-3
Fox Valley Christmas Market gets underway as they are allowed under the Covid rules in Tier-3

The Tier 3 restrictions come into force on December 2 when the second national lockdown ends.

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Jessica Horton, from the Fox Valley Markets team, said: “We are really excited to be able to host our annual Christmas Market weekend this year, giving our shoppers something festive to enjoy and our local businesses a chance to trade.

“We hope our shoppers will come down and support our fantastic local traders, you will be sure to find some amazing and unique Christmas gifts.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.