Fowey Christmas Market will not go ahead this year
Organisers cite rising costs and a change to the light switch-on date
Fowey's Christmas market has been cancelled for this year, according to its organisers.
It had been provisionally scheduled for 4th to 6th December.
In an online statement, organisers said they have run the event for 10 years.
"After putting our heart and soul into this event over the last 10 years, it is with a heavy heart to inform you that Fowey Christmas Market, provisionally scheduled for 4th - 6th December 26, will not be taking place this year," they said.
Costs and challenges
Running the market has become increasingly difficult, according to the post.
"It's news none of us wanted, but the viability of the event over the last five years has been extremely challenging," organisers said.
Unpaid time and absorbed costs have been used to keep the event going.
Fowey's narrow streets, small quays, multiple venues and changing tides make a Christmas market both financially and operationally challenging, the post says.
Significant year-on-year cost increases and other factors outside the organisers' control have also affected viability, it adds.
Light switch-on date
A change to the date of this year's Christmas lights switch-on and parade is also blamed.
According to the post, it has been moved to a different date from the traditional opening night of the market.
Last year's switch-on was the most attended ever, organisers said.
That change has had a direct impact on the viability of the event, they added.
The post blames a handful of individuals, who it says do not represent the views of visitors or the wider town, for acting without considering the effect on visitors, businesses, suppliers and traders.
No one is named in the statement.
Refunds and next year
Stallholders have already been contacted and will receive a refund, organisers said.
Suppliers and local businesses have also been informed.
Time and money already put into this year's event will be lost, according to the post.
An apology has been offered to visitors, traders and businesses who had planned to take part.
Visitors, people in the town, businesses and traders were also thanked for supporting the market over the years.
Looking ahead, organisers said: "If we can get over these challenges, we will regroup for next year and see what's possible."