Storm Darragh leads to cancellation of first Christmas artisan market at Pennington Flash

The festive event was due to be held at Pennington Flash in Leigh on Sunday, the first of its kind at the country park.

It would have included a wide range of stalls, games, creative craft workshops, Santa’s Grotto and a performance by Leigh Community Choir.

But organisers have announced it will not go ahead due to the strong winds still hitting the area from Storm Darragh.

A post on Pennington Flash’s Facebook page said: “Unfortunately, due to the blustery weather we've had to cancel today's Artisan Christmas Markets event at Pennington Flash Nature Reserve.

“This was a difficult decision to make but the safety of all who where potentially attending today takes priority.

“We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused for our visitors and stallholders.”

SPG Events also had to cancel a similar event which was scheduled to take place in Wigan town centre yesterday.

A post on its Facebook page said: “Yet again Storm Darragh has halted our vehicles for bringing you some wonderful events.

“We were on site from 6am this morning at Pennington and sadly the gusts that were coming through were just too much. A joint decision was made to postpone this one.

“Organising such events takes a long time and working with our local councils and venues.

“Whilst we would love nothing more to keep all the events going, we have to look at the safety of you, your business, public, our staff and the venue.”