WINCHESTER'S popular Christmas market is preparing for its return this November with workmen putting up huts around the Inner Close of the Cathedral.

A number of eight complete huts have been spotted at Winchester Cathedral's Inner Close, with crews from HazCos Enterprises - a long-serving partner of the market - working to ensure the market is ready by November 14. 

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Recognised as one of the best in Europe, the market will be open for business on Friday, November 18, and will run until Thursday, December 22.

As previously revealed, the market will be returning without the popular ice rink.

Hampshire Chronicle:

Tim Hazlitt and Neil Cosgrove, of HazCos Enterprises, said: "This is the biggest job of the year. We've got a really good crew of guys here. If it wasn't for Covid, this would have been our 15th year. We get it done but we all have a good laugh as well."

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Around 118 German-inspired chalets will line the ancient cathedral walls, with pop-ups selling a range of seasonal gifts, food, and drink.

Hampshire Chronicle:

The proposed site will be similar to last year, which saw the introduction of a larger food court and a community stage that hosted a variety of free performances throughout.