Hailsham Summer French Market Cancelled

Hailsham Town Council’s 2020 summer events programme has been cancelled, a decision that had to be made because of the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Due to advice given and social distancing measures imposed by Public Health England, the Summer French Market due to take place on Saturday 25th July will not go ahead as planned. This follows the cancellation of the Annual Town Electors’ Meeting scheduled for  1^st April and postponement until further notice of all Council and committee meetings.

“It is our duty as a Town Council to look after the health, safety and wellbeing of the public and for this reason, we have taken the decision to cancel the Summer French Market in July, with no suitable options for an alternative date,” said Cllr Nigel Coltman, vice-chairman of the Communities Committee.

“No decision has been taken on the other planned events in the coming months and we will await further information from the Government on the best way to move forward and will make decisions about future events based on the latest information we receive.”

“This is a very challenging time for us all, and we are trying our best to promote public safety by reducing social interaction, which can spread the Coronavirus.”

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the public for their understanding of these necessary precautions as we take every step possible to ensure their wellbeing and safety – and that of our members and staff.”

Also recently postponed as a result of the Coronavirus emergency was the Hailsham Live VE Day 75 community celebrations due to take place on the Friday 8th May bank holiday. However, the event has been rescheduled for Saturday 15th August to coincide with VJ Day – the day World War II officially ended globally. The event will be an opportunity to mark VE Day and VJ Day together, both momentous days in our history.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the weekly Hailsham Street Market has also been cancelled until further notice.

Deputy Town Clerk & Business Enterprise manager, Mickey Caira commented: “The street market is a popular regular event and we haven’t taken the decision to close it lightly, Nevertheless, government agencies have put into place crucial measures and advised that all individuals, regardless of their age or any underlying health conditions, should where possible avoid gatherings and public spaces.”

“Of course, we fully appreciate the concerns market traders may have regarding any potential loss of business. Even though we operate a small market, because the market attracts people in close proximity, we feel that temporary closure is the best option for the health and wellbeing of both traders and local residents.”