Elizabeth Fish

Final preparations are underway in uphill Lincoln in preparation for the return on Lincoln Christmas Market on December 4-7.

Over 200 stalls are being prepared before the opening of the market at 12.30pm on Thursday, December 4, known as locals’ day. An official opening will also be held at 5.30pm outside Lincoln Cathedral.

The four-day market will be split into several zones selling similar items, to make it easier to find the perfect gift and treat.

A gift marquee can be found in Westgate and by the big wheel, while those looking for food should go to St Paul’s Food Court or the Christmas Pantry.

There will be a range of children’s toys on offer, and crafts such as soap and candles, jewellery, pottery and ironwork.

Lincoln’s Christmas Market is the oldest in the UK, and attracts over 250,000 visitors a year, bringing £10 million to the local economy.

For more information on the market, such is info for families, parking, special trains and accommodation, visit The Lincolnite‘s Lincoln Christmas Market Superguide 2014.

Residents and businesses in Lincoln have shown their goodwill by helping a charity shop get back to business after a break-in.

As previously reported, the St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice shop on High Street was broken into between November 20-21.

During the messy break-in, £400 in cash was stolen, plus damage to the roof, where the offenders gained entry.

Since then, residents have come forward with offers and to help.

They received a number of donations, plus one individual came forward to donate £250.

Additionally, Graham Nicholson Roofing Ltd fixed the £2,000 worth of roof damage free of charge.

Sleaford firm IP-Connect will fit a new CCTV system free and Lincoln’s Vulcan Fire and Security Ltd is donating a state-of-the art alarm system.

Caroline Peach, Assistant Retail Manager for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said: “We were absolutely devastated when we learned of the burglary and in particular the mindless destruction they had caused to our premises.

“It was heart-breaking to see, particularly as our staff and volunteers put their heart and soul into ensuring the High Street store is of the highest quality.

“The support we have received since has been absolutely amazing and it really goes to show that senseless crimes such as this will not deter us from our dedication to provide end of life care.”

Caroline added: “We are extremely grateful for all the support we have received and have been taken aback by the sheer generosity of the Lincolnshire community. We have seen donations to our shop increase and have received so many warm wishes.

“The help and assistance from local businesses has been second to none and the security firms we are working with will help to secure our shop from any future break-ins.”