SKIPTON'S Christmas Market on Sunday has had to be scaled

down because of safety reasons.

Forecasts of winds of up to 45mph has meant Skipton Town Council has had to make the difficult decision of reducing the number of stall holders, although it says the planned entertainment will take place.

A council spokesman said: "The Skipton Christmas Market is still going ahead on Sunday, however we have had to reduce the number of stalls we have at the event for health and safety reasons.

"The Met Office have predicted gusts of winds up to 45 mph and unfortunately this poses a health and safety hazard for some of the gazebos.

"Ultimately the health and safety of attendees, stall holders and staff has to come first. This is not an easy decision and is not one that has been taken lightly."

The spokesman added :"All the planned entertainment, food and drink stalls and market stalls located on the setts will still be going ahead as planned. The farmers and craft market at the Canal Basin is also still going ahead.

"Plus, of course, all of our wonderful shops, cafes and restaurants will be open as normal."

Sunday's market, the second of the two festive markets, will take place on the closed High Street.