Top award goes to Loughborough's markets and fair 800 years celebration

The anniversary was celebrated with lots of council-run events throughout the year.

Loughborough Fair has won a top tourism award for its 800th-anniversary celebrations.

The event, which was organised by Charnwood Borough Council, won the ‘Best Free Event’ at the Leicestershire Tourism Awards.

Councillor Shona Rattray, lead member for business support, said: “We are so pleased to win this award at the Leicestershire Tourism Awards.

“A big thank you to our team who helped organise so many great events which were attended in great number by the people of Charnwood.”

The borough council put on lots of events such as exhibitions at the Sock Gallery in Loughborough Town Hall and Charnwood Museum, a plaque unveiling, commemorative lights and fun family events in the town centre to mark 800 years since the markets and fair were given Royal approval.

Councillor Jenny Bokor, lead member for Loughborough, said: “There were some great events that took place over the last year and we feel we did the town proud in marking such a special year.

“It is great to have it recognised by this award.”