Highland wind weather warnings spark cancellation of last Inverness Farmers’ Market before Christmas; but some traders able to make alternative arrangements
Stormy winds have dealt a blow to fans of artisan products in the run-up to Christmas after the organisers of the Inverness Farmers' Market were forced to cancel.
The final market of 2024 was due to take place on Saturday - and would no doubt have provided a great opportunity for some last minute quality local Christmas shopping bargains.
But with yellow Met Office weather warnings in place across the Highlands and islands, and gusts in Inverness predicted to top out at up to 60mph, the market's organisers were forced to cancel the event.
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Announcing the news on their social channels, they said: "Unfortunately we have to cancel Saturday's market due to the forecast gusts of more than 60mph. Your safety is our priority."
But although the market's cancellations is a blow to shoppers and traders alike, some of those who had been due to sell their wares on Saturday have organised alternative arrangements and still intend to have a presence in the city tomorrow.
These include Dog Falls Brewery, which said it had organised a pop-up shop inside Inverness's newest music venue - An Seomar.
An Seomar, which is based inside the former Revolution bar on Church Street, only opened its doors for the first time last week.
Confirming the alternative Saturday arrangements, Dog Falls Brewing said: "Delighted to confirm that Dog Falls Brewing will now be hawking our wares from a wee pop up shop at Inverness’ new music venue, An Seomar, on Church Street (formerly Revs) on Saturday from 11-3, for all your festive beer needs!"
Praising the venue for “coming to the rescue”, they added: “Massive thanks to this wonderful new venue for opening their doors for us!”
And they weren't the only traders hoping to make alternative arrangements, with Bells Seafood relocating to Falcon Square instead from 9am to 2.30pm that day too.
Confirming its switch to Falcon Square following the market's cancellation, Bell's Seafood said: "{We] will now be located on Falcon Square between Pizza Express & Burger King in Inverness from 9am to 2.30pm [on Saturday[.
"The usual farmers market on the High Street has been cancelled due to high winds.
"All the usual favourites and Christmas seafood goodies will be on sale such as crab meat, crab claws, hot smoked salmon, monkfish, halibut, sea trout, scallops, langoustines, crevettes(tiger prawns), Cullen skink and much, much more…"
Another trader making alternative arrangements was that of Fodderty Woodturning.
Taking to socials, they said: “Well, the last market of the year has now been cancelled due to the high winds forecast.
“As I won`t be at Inverness Farmers Market on Saturday now, the show room will be open for one day longer.
“Open Friday and Saturday all day, and [today], Thursday, from 3pm on until late, whenever that is.”