A PUB is preparing to host its first-ever Christmas market
The Coachman in Hartford is getting into the festive spirit early this year, announcing plans for a first-of-its-kind event.
Restaurant manager Kasia Mazurkiewicz came up with the idea as a way of engaging with the community this winter.
She said: “The idea of holding a Christmas market was my idea.
“As a family-friendly pub, I thought it would be a great opportunity to meet all our lovely guests in a festive mood.
“We have never done anything like this before.”
The free-to-enter market will be held next Saturday (November 11) from 6pm.
There will be a wide variety of stalls selling everything from chocolates to flowers, cosmetics to candles.
Meanwhile the Coachman itself will host a stall, offering festive food and mulled wine.
There will also be a raffle and possibly some rides for children to enjoy too.
A Facebook post announcing the market was greeted with more than 180 likes, 30 shares and 60 comments.
Kasia has been delighted with response they have had so far.
She said: “We are so very happy that people are reacting positively, and we are really looking forward to it.
“It will be such a joy to see all our lovely guests happy on that day.
“If this market is successful, we are planning to hold another in December.”
Kasia’s husband, Pawel, and Jan Horky took over the Coachman in February.
Jan comes from the Czech Republic and Paweł from Poland, with both having lived with their families in England for the last 10 years or so.
They met eight years ago, becoming friends and business partners.
Taking over the Coachman is a “dream fulfilled” they say.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here