THE 800th anniversary of a historic Leicestershire market and Fair has been celebrated by the creative efforts of school children in the area.
Charnwood Primary School children have created artwork to celebrate Loughborough’s historic fair and market, with their work used to create a window display at Charnwood library consisting of over 200 images.
The artwork, which was completed in 2021, has been inspired by the history of the market and fair, with images of stalls, food, and funfair rides.
The display will be available to see until April 2022 to give everyone a chance to enjoy it.
The first fair was held in Loughborough on July 31 1221 to mark the feast day of Saint Peter. It was in the same year that a charter to hold a market in Loughborough was granted to the Lord of the Manor. Since then a market and fair have taken place in some form in Loughborough continuously.
The ‘My Magical Market, My Fantastical Fair!’ children’s art project is being led by Culture Leicestershire of Leicestershire County Council. The aim is to inspire interest in heritage using creativity, and for every child to see their imaginations come to life on the windows of this prominent community hub.
“The ancient Loughborough Market and Fair are famous aspects of the town’s history, it is fantastic that the community are celebrating the history whilst enabling the younger generation to be involved and play their part,” said councillor Christine Radford, cabinet member for heritage, leisure and arts.
“The children have created some amazing artwork inspired by the history of the Market and Fair and their unique interpretations brings a whole new dimension. It is great to see such a positive and creative response.”
Councillor Dan Harrison, Chairman of Leicestershire County Council (pictured) said: “It was a great experience to see the children’s artwork marking this historic milestone for Loughborough. The market and fair are part of local life, but also part of our history too. I’m sure it will continue going strong for many years to come”.
For more information and to view the display online, visit: https://www.cultureleicestershire.co.uk/projects/my-magical-market-my-fantastical-fair/
