Market operator apologises after blocking Santa's post box in Leamington - leaving some parents and children angry and upset

A market operator has apologised after blocking Santa's post box in Leamington yesterday (Sunday), leaving some parents and children angry and upset.

Many people supported local businesses at the Yuletide Market in the town centre but families who travelled in to post their letters to Father Christmas were unable to do so.

Organisers Sketts Markets said it was 'sincerely sorry' and that the error was due to a last minute change in layout.

But some parents said the mistake was avoidable and upsetting.

One parent, who wishes to remain anonymous, said it was "totally careless".

She added: "So many kids have been upset about not being able to post their letters.

"Why not move the stall? Children have had an awful year and this is something exciting to take part in and this has now been wrecked by Sketts Market."

Santa’s Post Box has been positioned on the Parade, at its junction with Regent Street, by BID Leamington as part of the town centre’s Covid-safe Christmas attractions.

The striking red box is equipped with a mini light show which is triggered for senders to enjoy as their letter wings its way to Lapland.

Although most of the feedback Sketts received was constructive and supportive, the company said it was a 'terrible shame' that a couple of people chose to send the company abusive and offensive messages.

Sketts Markets said: “Sketts, like most companies have felt the full force of Covid. We have worked in harmony with Warwick District Council and the BID on a weekly basis, constantly changing the layout to accommodate other forces and Covid measures.

"This has meant working with a much-reduced stall capacity. We sincerely apologise that the Santa’s post box was blocked for part of the day due to the removal of scaffolding and understand that fortunately children can revisit it anytime up to Christmas Eve.

"It is a terrible shame that a couple of abusive and offensive comments should affect the overwhelming goodwill we have received. We would like to thank the public for their understanding and amazing support of the markets and local businesses during such a difficult time. The last Yuletide event is this Sunday.”

Sketts said it wanted to thank everyone who came along to support local businesses, despite the cold wet weather.