SANTA Claus looks set to come to town early this year as Clitheroe gears up to hold its first Christmas music and market event.

Organiser Event Owl has requested permission from Ribble Valley Borough Council to hold a Christmas music and market event on the Castle Field from Wednesday, December 2 to Sunday, December 6.

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The plan is for around 50 food and craft stalls, a beer tent and space for music and an ice rink.

Council head of cultural and leisure services Mark Beveridge said in a letter from the community services committee that the organiser is expecting around 8,000 people to attend the event.

Event Owl, which had sought to hold a similar type of festival this spring but then required more time to prepare, will need to apply for a premises licence. The licence would cover the sale of alcohol at the event.

Mr Beveridge said, within the report, there would be an issue with the event being so central in the town and the impact it would have on residents.

He said: “There would be some implications for local residents and users of the castle, including music from the event tent until curfew at 10pm each evening from December 2 to December 6.

“It is not anticipated road closures would be required to stage the event and the event organiser will provide the stewarding and deal with litter arising from the event.”

Cllr Stuart Hurst said Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year for market traders in Clitheroe.

He said: “We have always supported our local businesses in helping to create a welcoming and traditional atmosphere which is very much appreciated and enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

“Wherever possible we will continue to do so.

“The application from Event Owl for a Christmas event will be considered by our community committee in that light.”

The decision will be made at the community services committee meeting to be held at Clitheroe Town Hall on Tuesday (6.30pm).