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Ashton Christmas market a runaway success

Ashton under Lyne’s Christmas market proved so successful that plans are afoot to hold an even bigger and better event next year.

Thousands of people visited the two-week event, which was a first for Tameside. Shoppers enjoyed daily live entertainment on the stage and free children’s rides as well as a bar and 30 traditional cabin stalls offering a wide variety of gifts, food and festive fare.

Now Tameside Council is seeking feedback from visitors and traders to help build on this success for next year.

Executive Deputy Leader Cllr John Taylor, responsible for markets, said: “We’ve received lots of wonderful feedback from visitors who have enjoyed the market and the lovely, festive atmosphere as well as from businesses who have seen an increase in trade. I would like to thank everyone for showing their support and shopping local.

“We would really like to hear from more people about what they think worked well and any suggestions to help us build on this success for the future. We want this to be an annual event for Tameside and will be reviewing all the feedback before making plans for next time.”

Ashton Market Hall saw an increase in trade during the Christmas Market, with over 3,000 more visitors through the doors during the first week than the same period last year. Other town centre businesses have also responded positively to the event.

Sharon Radcliffe of Maisies Daisies said: “I think the Christmas markets have been a wonderful idea – really well organised and enjoyed by all. We’ve had many new customers into the indoor market also.”

Janet Louth of Baileys said: “Business has been better this Christmas – the Metrolink has definitely helped but the Christmas Market has had a big part to play.”

Della Yates of B & M Bargains said: “We’ve had a great increase in footfall from 5pm compared to last year. A great event.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Simon Malia .