A beloved Birmingham farmers market, celebrated as one of Britain's finest, has been forced to cancel its monthly event for only the second time in its twenty-year history due to dangerous weather conditions.
Historic Market Succumbs to Icy Peril
The Kings Norton Farmers Market, which regularly ranks among the top three such markets in the entire country, made the reluctant decision to call off its Saturday, January 10 gathering. This date was set to be its first market of 2026, held on the historic village green in Kings Norton as usual.
Organisers announced the cancellation on Friday, January 9, after receiving advice that proceeding would pose a significant safety risk. In a statement to the community, they explained their difficult position.
"Due to the icy weather forecast overnight we have made the reluctant decision to cancel tomorrow's market," they wrote. "We were hoping to go ahead but have been advised it would be dangerous to do so."
A Rare Disruption for a Community Staple
The market's organisers emphasised the exceptional nature of this closure, noting: "It's only the second time in 20 years we have had to cancel. Let's hope there's not a third!" The not-for-profit venture was established with the core aim of bringing the local community together, featuring over 25 local producers selling fresh wares on the second Saturday of each month.
Its reputation for quality and its community spirit have drawn countless shoppers to the historic green over the years, making this cancellation a notable disappointment for the area.
Wider Disruption from Storm Goretti
The market's closure was part of widespread disruption caused by Storm Goretti across the region on Friday. The severe winter weather led to numerous precautions:
- Attractions, restaurants, and businesses closed to protect staff and customers.
- Significant impacts on airport runways, schools, roads, and rail networks.
- Widespread transport cancellations due to snow and ice.
The region braced for further flurries, with more snow forecast for Sunday, January 11. The organisers signed off their announcement with a hopeful note for the future, stating: "Next market is Valentine's Day. Love to see you then." The community can now look forward to the next Kings Norton Farmers Market on Saturday, February 14.
