Plaque marks 800 years for Loughborough Markets and Fair
This news article was published more than 6 months ago. Please be aware that this information may now be out of date.
Published: Sat 31st July, 2021
A Charnwood heritage plaque has been unveiled to mark the 800th anniversary of the Royal Charters for Loughborough Markets and Loughborough Fair.
Charnwood Borough Council, which operates the markets and fair, commissioned the plaque and it was unveiled during a ceremony at Loughborough Town Hall today (July 31) - exactly 800 years to the day when the first fair was held in the town under the charter.
Cllr Jenny Bokor, lead member for Loughborough, said: “We are extremely proud to mark the anniversary with the commissioning of a heritage plaque.
“Both the markets and fair are incredibly popular and it is incredible to think they have been taking place for 800 years.
“They are not only an integral part of the community but they are also very important to the local economy, bringing in thousands of visitors each year. The markets have continued through the pandemic and been a lifeline to many people and we look forward to the fair returning this year.
“I would also like to thank the traders and Loughborough Fair showpeople for all their support over the years.”
The heritage plaque was unveiled by the Mayor of Charnwood, Cllr Paul Baines, who said: “I was honoured to unveil the plaque and mark such a significant milestone in Loughborough’s history.
“The markets and fair mean a lot to the town and its people and I am pleased we have been able to celebrate 800 years of the royal charters this year. It is an amazing achievement.”
In 1221, a young King Henry III granted a Royal Charter to Hugh le Despenser, the Lord of the manor, to hold a weekly Thursday market and an annual fair in Loughborough.
Eight centuries later, the market and fair are run by the borough council which is working with partners to mark the landmark year.
The ceremony included the reading of the original charter and themed entertainment with a storyteller and reenactors.
Loughborough Fair is held in November and approximately 100 individual show people attend each year, presenting around 20 large rides between them and numerous children's rides, games and novelty stalls and refreshments.
This year’s fair is planned for November 10 – 13.
Further information about the 800th anniversary of Loughborough Markets and Loughborough Fair.