New concern over Lammas Fair visitor numbers

Last year there were initial concerns that numbers could be affected because the event was held on Monday August 24 and Tuesday August 25 even though the Bank Holiday was Monday August 31.

And this year the Monday and Tuesday are August 30 and August 31 and although the Monday is a Bank Holiday it is expected that a number of schools may start on the Tuesday which could hit the visitor figures.

A report prepared for Moyle councillors said that despite the worries last year the visitor figures held up.

It said: ‘Visitors numbers held up well despite the weather and the Fair not being on the Bank Holiday.”

But this year’s situation is being viewed cautiously.

The report added: ‘This year numbers may also be an issue because of the lateness of the holiday.’

The Council report also commented on other issues surrounding the 2009 Lammas Fair.

Regarding the travelling community, the report said: ‘As members are aware a number of travellers set up on private property in Clare Road for the summer period.

‘A number of others parked in the Harbour Car Park for the Fair. In general few problems were encountered in these areas. Damage was caused to Council pitches on the Quay Road by travellers who set up at Thompson’s Field.’

Regarding horse trading at Fairhill Street, the Council report said: ‘This year there was much better segregation between horses and spectators. The installation of the height restricted barrier prevented unauthorised access to Council and other property at the top of the street.

‘Whilst, in general, horse traders co-operated with Council staff some proved difficult and credit must be given to staff who manned the barrier for the smooth running of the area.’

On the issue of street trading, the number of licences issued was consistent with previous years - 250 stalls.

The report continued: ‘During the Fair, 72 Food Hygiene and 33 Health & Safety inspections were carried out. A number of unsafe articles, primarily yo-yo balls, were seized.’