Quiet in York centre this Christmas Eve …. so far

It’s been a quiet start to Christmas Eve. Morning storms appear to have passed by now, leaving a  lot of surface water on roads and footpaths where drains are blocked. There are particular problems on Mount Vale, under the Leeman Road railway bridges and on Carr Lane.

Only a few people have ventured into the City centre and there are car parking spaces available in most car parks. They may however fill up quickly this afternoon as public transport begins to wind down.

The St Nicholas fair is now closed although the Shambles Market is doing some brisk business.

There is a lot of tree detritus and fallen leaves on the paths so care is required.

shambles-market-1100-hrs-24th-dec-2016

Shambles (Newgate) market is open

The St Nicholas Fair has ended

The St Nicholas Fair has ended

Slippery leaves pose a threat for unwary pedestrians and cyclists

Slippery leaves pose a threat for unwary pedestrians and cyclists

Innovative forms of transport may be needed later today

Innovative forms of transport may be needed later today

 

 

 

 

 

Christmas carol services today in York

York’s Annual outdoor Christmas Carol event takes place today.  

christmas-stre-st-helens-sq-18th-dec-2016The service, which starts at 7.30pm on Saturday 24 December in St Helen’s Square, is supported by the Salvation Army band and involves the audience being encouraged to form the choir for a range of Christmas Carols.

The service is expected to finish at around 8.30pm.

As this is an outdoor event residents and visitors are encouraged to wear suitable clothing for the cold temperatures. Traffic restrictions will be in place at St Helen’s Square, Coney Street and Lendal, which will be closed to traffic from 6.30pm to 9pm as the event takes place.

Earlier the internationally renowned nine lessons and Carols service takes place in the Minster.

The service starts at 4:00pm but those wishing to gain  admittance are advised to be there by 3:00pm