Church Convention To Be Held At Market Harborough Showground
Written by HFM News on 18th July 2023
A church group to host an event at Market Harborough Showground from this weekend have spoken to HFM after concerns were raised about it on social media.
The national Christian convention by the Light and Life Mission will run from Saturday until Thursday and could attract around 600 families, who will bring and stay in caravans on the site.
Although aimed at the Gipsy and Traveller community, organisers say all will be welcome.
A minority of people who went to a similar event in Oakham is 2021 caused problems with anti-social behaviour, which has prompted some concern about it being held at the Showground.
John Boyd is one of the trustees of the Light and Life Mission:
Market Harborough Showground
A spokesperson for Market Harborough Showground told HFM they have been in conversation with organisers and all local agencies about the event, after a formal event notice was submitted.
They added the event will be managed by around 100 support staff.
Harborough District Council say agencies were made aware of the event at the end of June/early July.
A spokesperson told HFM: “The showground in Market Harborough has confirmed that an annual Christian convention/caravan rally comprising of members of the church congregation from Life and light mission churches from around the UK, will be taking place from 22 July 2023.
“In the run up to the event, the organisers have been working with the showground itself and local agencies – including the council, Leicestershire Police, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue and the highways department at Leicestershire County Council – to ensure that the event runs as safely and smoothly as possible.
“The showground is a private venue with private management. No licenses have been applied for or granted by Harborough District Council as there are no licensable activities at the event.”
Cllr Phil King, county councillor for Market Harborough and Foxton, told HFM it is important the community is aware the event is taking place:
A Leicestershire Police spokesperson said: “Police are aware of an annual Christian convention starting this weekend at the showground in Market Harborough and are in contact with the venue and local partner agencies.
“This is a private event but due to the increase in people in the area while it is taking place, police will be carrying out increased routine patrols.”
