As Northern Ireland is bracing for the arrival of Storm Darragh, the organisers of the Belfast Christmas Market have issued a safety statement.
A three-day warning is in place across Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with strong winds and rain set to cause disruption across the region. In an update issued on Friday morning, it's been confirmed that the Christmas Market at Belfast City Hall will not open tomorrow, Saturday December 7.
A spokesperson said: "Unfortunately due to the expected extreme weather, it will not be safe for us to open the Belfast Christmas Market on Saturday 7th December. We recognise this may be disappointing, however the safety of our visitors and traders is of the utmost importance..
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"At the moment the plan is to reopen on Sunday 8th December, however this is weather dependent. Please refer to the Belfast Christmas Market and Belfast City Council social media for updates."
Meanwhile, The Enchanted Winter Garden at Antrim Castle Gardens has also been cancelled on Friday and Saturday with organisers saying that refunds will be automatically issued.
"As a result of the Yellow and Amber Weather Warnings issued by the Met Office for strong wind, and after conducting further health and safety risk assessments in Antrim Castle Gardens, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the Enchanted Winter Garden events on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 December to ensure the safety of visitors, staff, and performers," they posted on social media.
"All tickets and pre-bought tokens for Friday and Saturday will be automatically refunded, although it may take up to seven days for refunds to be processed. Please visit www.enchantedwintergarden.com to rebook for another night. We’re truly sorry for any disappointment caused, and we hope to welcome you back soon for a magical winter experience under calmer skies. Stay safe, stay warm, and thank you for your understanding."
Follow live updates on this weather warning on our blog here.
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