Thousands expected as town's historic fair returns

A historic fair is expected to welcome thousands of visitors when it returns to a town.

Loughborough Fair will take place from 13 to 16 November, and will be opened with the reading of the official proclamation at the Gallopers located in Devonshire Square in the town centre.

Rides, attractions, games, quizzes and food and drink stalls will return for all ages for the annual event run by Charnwood Borough Council.

The first official charter was granted to the Lord of the Manor, Hugh le Despencer, in 1221 by King Henry III.

The fair will be officially opened by the mayor of Charnwood, councillor Dr Julie Bradshaw, at 17:00 GMT on Wednesday, where she will also be presented with the official Loughborough Fair Bell.

Councillor Jennifer Tillotson, the council’s lead member for economic development, regeneration and town centres, said: "We can't wait to welcome all the fun of the fair back to Loughborough this month.

"It is always a memorable time of year as lots of families and residents visit the town centre to enjoy the rides and attractions as well as supporting our local businesses."

The council said Granby Street car park would be shut from Monday afternoon for the area to be used for rides and attractions.

The car parks at Ward's End and Bedford Square will also be closed from Tuesday afternoon.

However, the Beehive Lane multi-storey car park and Southfield Road car parks will be available during the hours of the fair.

Southfield offices car park will also be open to the public outside of the council's opening times.

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