The first Mansfield Christmas market proved such a success that it is now in the diary for this year.

Organised by Mansfield Business Improvement District, the Nutcracker-themed market saw purpose-built chalets erected on West Gate over two weeks in November and December.

People were able to buy Christmas gifts and purchase hot food as they did their festive shopping in the town centre.

Figures show the event helped to attract people in to the town centre, with footfall up by almost 96 per cent on the same period the previous year.

Sue Rogers, events and marketing co-ordinator at the BID, who is pictured with Daryl McGreade, also from the BID, said: “We were delighted that the event proved to be so popular, and we got some fantastic feedback.

“We are now looking at how we can make it bigger and better, and perhaps extend how long it is on for.”

Sue has also revealed other events planned for throughout the year. The BID has just secured funding from the Ministry Of
Defence to put on The Armed Forces Day, which will take place on July 1st.

Working in partnership with Food For All Seasons, Mansfield’s Life’s A Beach will again be in the town centre, running every day from July 30th to August 25th.

This year will see the return of the Tiny Tots photographic competition for a second year, on August 30th and 31st.

The Garden And Craft Festival, organised in conjunction with The Trustees Of The Allotment For The Labouring Poor, will take place on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd September.

The BID’s annual events are open for sponsorship to allow local businesses the opportunity to support their local town.
Mansfield BID is also working in partnership with Mansfield District Council, which delivers other events in the town centre, such as the Christmas Lights Switch On, artisan markets, the Love Your Market event and the annual car show.

People wanting more information about the events should visit www.mansfieldtowncentre.co.uk