Independent businesses on Abbeydale Road are holding a Christmas market for the first time this Sunday to showcase their goods.

Various shops, including eateries, salons and bars, will take part with over 18 establishments involved.

Nicole Jewitt, 46, owner of Cole’s Corner, which is participating in the market said: “The Sheffield people prefer independent businesses, they are the lifeblood of the city. Sheffield is resistant to the homogenised high street.”

Cole’s Corner will be hosting a variety of jam-makers and artists on its terrace with free samples and gift wrapping for items bought in the shop.

The market came about due to a spate of burglaries which went on down the road during August 2020 in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic.

This encouraged shop owners and traders to begin a WhatsApp chat in order to share CCTV and information, eventually getting together to begin a market this year to celebrate the local community.

Nicole said there used to be a flea market down Abbeydale Road but it stopped a few years ago.

Businesses down the road such as La Mama Tapas is putting on something special for the event, offering Latin American street food to take out which differs from its normal menu.

Daniela Cooke, 39, owner of La Mama Tapas, said: “The event is bringing us together.”

She said she hoped if the market was successful this year it will become an annual event and continue next Christmas, opening up the possibility to host more markets throughout the year.

More information can be found by following the Facebook event: (3) Abbeydale Road Independent Xmas Market | Facebook