Cantley Park Christmas Market Delayed
Following the teething problems we’ve had at the Cantley Park synthetic skating rink, we have re-thought our plans for the accompanying Christmas Market and will now be opening it later than expected – on December 8.
As well as moving the opening back, we have offered huts in the market free of charge to local traders (and provided refunds to those who had already paid). In return we are asking them to bring plenty of Christmas cheer.
We are also introducing a new offer for the synthetic rink: buy two hot drinks at Cantley Park Café – get half price tickets (redeemable Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 8pm)
The synthetic rink will now be closing on December 24 in line with the new plan for a shorter, but better event (the small number of tickets sold for after Christmas will be refunded).
Our revised plans will allow us to support local traders and charities after a difficult year for many, provide a festive fun destination for the community.
Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure, said: “We planned this event to bring some extra Christmas cheer to the people of the borough – and some things have not gone as well as expected. We are sorry for that and want to make sure that, when we do open the market, it is a great attraction for all.
“To make things better, we are providing a complete refund to all traders who have already paid for their Christmas Market huts – and won’t be charging those who had not yet paid. This will give us a good range of arts, crafts, food and drink offers to make it well-worth a visit.
“We have also addressed the concerns raised by visitors to the rink, in particular, the treatment to the surface of the rink has been improved to make it better to skate on.
“As a first of its kind Christmas event for us, with a synthetic skate rink and 15 market huts, we believe this will create a festive feel after the tough year we have all had.”
Synthetic rink improvements
Following feedback from visitors to the skate rink, we have addressed all the issues raised, such as:
· Improving the skating experience by sharpening the blades on the boots available and improving the treatment to the surface of the synthetic ice
· Adding better Christmas decorations and lighting to the rink
· Deploying more experienced staff to the rink
· Providing temporary toilets for visitors
Christmas Market exhibitors
We are expecting more confirmations, but the currently confirmed list of traders, charities and businesses is:
· Pizza Addicts
· Lilly White Cakes
· Simply Beads
· Unholy Donuts
· Jewelercise
· First Days
· Sew Natural
· Eleanor Jane Beauty Gifts
· Olive Tree Dental
· Blue Orchid Bakery
· The Cow Shed
· Hop in a Box
· Heaven Sent
· The Magpie and Parrot
· Luna Ray
· Get Set Pet
· Berkshire Chock Shop
Cantley Park Christmas Market Delayed – New Opening Times
The Christmas Market is free to attend and will take place in the event field at Cantley Park between 8 and 23 December. The opening times are Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 8pm, and Sunday 12pm to 6pm.
