Cheltenham takes on Christmas

Cheltenham took on Christmas as festivities began with the light switch-on held on the 16th of November and the ice rink opening for the second time in a few years on the following day, the 17th.

Belinda Hunt, Cheltenham's Business Improvement District Operations Manager, said: "People should come here because we've got an array of shops for all demographics and income brackets. Our Christmas lights are across the whole town, and it is quite a challenge sometimes, but we need to feed everybody's appetite. They are designed with the public in mind."

When asked about the businesses in the town centre and the current cost of living crisis, Hunt said: "It's going to be really tough. We hope the activities that we put on and the whole vibe will bring more people into town." With the growing rate of online shopping Hunt also spoke about how people should utilise what the town has such as the Park and Ride since that

can be a problem for some. "Shopping is an experience" she said.

Finally, she added: "We have seen a slight decline in footfall since 2008 but it is starting to pick up. Spending is up and that's a case of quality over quantity." "The ice rink will definitely help. It is the only covered ice rink in Gloucestershire, and we have only had an ice rink here once before."

The 4-day Christmas Market was also in full swing at the town centre. There were many stalls with lots to choose from such as hot chocolate or classic Christmas Yorkshire pudding wraps. Melissa, a worker at the mulled wine stall, said: "The day is quiet, but the evening gets quite busy. I think Cheltenham's market gets more elderly customers whereas other markets such as Gloucester are more kid friendly."

Andrea, a sole trader from Romania, who has been working at Christmas markets for a few years now, said: "I've been to many different markets such as Cirencester and Swindon. I get a range of different customers here from all ages, so I try not to do one niche, and I create products Christmas decorations to earrings. I really enjoy it, it's my bread and butter!"