Following the cancellation of Stamford Christmas Market, Stamford Town Council is offering a virtual Christmas Market featuring a range of products from the market traders who were due to take part in the event.

Due to Storm Bert, which caused significant disruption across the UK, the decision was taken to cancel the physical event on November 24 to ensure the safety of traders, visitors and residents.

The opportunity then arose to create a virtual market, signposting people to an online portal highlighting the digital shops of many of the traders who had booked to sell their wares at the Christmas Market. After hearing about the cancellation of the market, local business owner Paul Buckley volunteered to create and host Stamford’s Virtual Christmas Market.

The virtual market allows visitors to browse online shops and view social media pages to explore each trader’s range in more detail. From jewellery and home décor, to beer and pet treats, there are plenty of gift options for Christmas shoppers.

More businesses will be added in the coming days and the site has already received hundreds of hits.

Councillor Jo Winterbourne said: “It was extremely disappointing when we had to make the call to cancel the market, as so many traders had worked extremely hard to prepare for the event and were looking forward to a much-loved date in Stamford’s festive calendar.

“We’re so grateful to Paul Buckley for creating this opportunity for the businesses involved to showcase their products on another platform, providing a one-stop shop for those searching for the ideal Christmas gift.”