THE success of the park and ride scheme for last year’s Christmas celebrations in Knutsford is set to see the initiative continue this year.

“The service was well received and used, and it is intended that it will be repeated for 2019,” said a report on the Christmas 2019 events by deputy town clerk Lisa Benskin to the events and town centre management committee.

“Anecdotal feedback from town centre businesses indicated that some customers coming into the town centre to visit the shops also used the service on the market weekend.

“Clicker counters will be provided to the volunteer group involved in the project this year so data as to numbers of users can be obtained.”

One-way walking will be put in place again, but with extra signs, and if possible volunteers to help direct and encourage visitors to use the system.

Discussions have started with John Collins about the fair returning to Princess Street for the 2019 festive celebrations to help with income generation for the event.

Members of the public had told the town council they had missed the fair last year.

The Christmas Weekend event is scheduled for Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1, with stall fees to rise by £10.

As the crib service will take place as a standalone event in 2019 due to the cancellation of the lantern parade it is suggested the event start at 4pm on Saturday, December 7.

It is hoped an earlier start time might encourage more families to attend.