THE organiser of the Wilmslow Artisan Market have cancelled this weekend’s event.

While markets can remain open to sell essential items during the current coronavirus lockdown, The Market Co says it would go against the spirit of the restrictions to host the popular event in town on Saturday.

In a post on Facebook, director Denise Valente said: “Based on the Government guidelines, and despite the fact that some markets can go ahead under the guise of ‘selling essential items’, we feel that if we were to go ahead with the event we would be contradicting the aims of this second lockdown, which is to encourage everyone to stay home and limit contact with others as much as possible.

“This together with the limitations which would not allow any craft, art or design stalls to partake nor street food – as this has to be click and collect, pre ordered and takeaway only – means the offer would be significantly reduced.

“This decision will have a dramatic financial impact on many of our artisan traders as well as ourselves but my conscience says I would rather keep both our traders and you and your families safe than put income over your health and safety.

“If we make this lockdown have a positive impact it may mean we can have the family Christmas we all hope for.”

Shoppers can still support stall holders from the Wilmslow Artisan Market on the Artisans Online website at themarketco.co.uk/shop