A reflection on a summer jam packed with events in Whitehaven

Since then it's grown from strength to strength and 2023 has so far been the busiest year to date.

With something happening every month and occasionally twice a month, the Town Council has kept the events rolling, whether they are the very popular summer traders markets in St Nicholas Gardens, the annual photo exhibition in a marquee, the science shows for schools, which this year included a very big public element or supporting events such as the Leyland Bus gathering on Whitehaven harbour, it's been a successful year so far by any standards.

Whitehaven businessman Gerard Richardson who helps the Town Council to stage their events said: "I've been delighted with 2023’s run of events, especially the markets which we all love doing.

The Mawbray Cheese Company and Castle Chocolates (Image: Newsquest)

"We were a little bit disappointed that the tall ship couldn’t visit us in August, but on the flip side, our science show this year was bigger and better than ever.

"With the support of Sellafield and its partners, iSh and Raico, we expanded the event from one marque to three and hopefully we can continue to build on that going forward.

"People also need to remember that without these regular events giving folk extra reason to visit the town centre, trade would be even harder for local shopkeepers and other small businesses.

"It’s been well-publicised that the poor weather of summer 2023 has had a marked impact on retail sales, so I applaud the Town Council for not only continuing to hit these events but for expanding on them.

Workington Transport Heritage (Image: Newsquest)

"In addition, the town also has Whitehaven Alive, Whitehaven Pride, our Flower and Vegetable Show, Christmas Lights Switch On and finally our Christmas Traders Market and Fireworks display to look forward to."