MALDON'S beloved Christmas Fair will not take place this year as it is set to be replaced with a lights switch-on event.

Maldon Town Council has announced it will be delivering a "modest" Christmas lights switch-on event in place of this year's Christmas Fair, which was due to take place on November 28.

The popular fair has taken place for many years and saw thousands attend in 2023. 

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Good effort - the Christmas grinch at last year's fayreGood effort - the Christmas grinch at last year's fayre (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

The council said since it made the decision to run the event in its previous format in March, it has lost two "key" members of the organising committee.

It added how it was felt the ability to deliver the fair to the scale of the previous events would not be possible and the decision was "not taken lightly".

"The council understands the importance of the Christmas Fair as a cherished Maldon tradition and is committed to exploring alternative ways to celebrate and support our local businesses and artisans over the festive period," a spokesman explained.

Town mayor Andrew Lay said: “We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the planning and preparation of this year's Christmas Fair so far.

“Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Mayor - Councillor Andrew LayMayor - Councillor Andrew Lay (Image: Newsquest)

“We would also like to single out and sincerely thank the outgoing Christmas Fair working group chairman, councillor Michael Pearlman.

“He has been a driving force over the past ten years and has dedicated so much time and effort in organising the event.”

The town council said it is now looking to organise a "modest Christmas light switch-on event" in place of the fair. 

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Magical - a Christmas tree at last year's fayreMagical - a Christmas tree at last year's fayre (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

A spokesman said: “The town council understands the disappointment this may cause to our community, who have supported the event come rain or shine since it started as a Victorian Night many years ago.

"The council is currently finalising plans for the reduced 2024 event and will share more details in the coming months.

"In the meantime, members will be working hard behind the scenes to shape the 2025 event."

The town council is also welcoming feedback from its residents on what it would like to see for next year’s festive season.

Anyone interested in providing feedback should email administration@maldontowncouncil.gov.uk.