After a tree fell onto five parked cars at last year's Exton Street Market, Exton Park Estate has withdrawn its offer of carparking space for the annual event, which has been running since 1981, and has become a big local draw for both Rutland and the surrounding counties..
Legal advisers warned the trustees of Exton Park Estate not to offer use of the land for future events.
When blessed with good weather, there have been over 2,500 vehicles parked for the market, so without the space donated by the Park, it would be both unsafe and impractical to hold the event.
Usually held on the second May bank holiday, there were usually over 200 stalls and 6,000 visitors. It has raised £47,000 for charities, helped by the Village Hall committee and the Rutland Lions Club, who man the car park.
I'll certainly miss the street market, as it's the 'jewel in the crown' of summer fetes and events in Rutland, with stalls selling a whole range of items. I took a stall there in Jubilee year, and although i didn't sell much, it was a good fun day out.
Anyone else had experience of selling or buying there? Will you miss it? Do you agree with Exton Park's decision or is this just another example of 'Litigation Britain'? It even makes the Health and Safety news - click here - then do 'Control F' and search for Exton
Of course, if you need any advice on Health and Safety issues, you can always contact Stamford's Helen Cullen, click here for more information
