Following last year’s success, Inspire libraries’ Christmas markets are returning at Mansfield and Sutton libraries with handmade gifts, baked goods and festive cheer.

This season, Inspire is urging Christmas shoppers to support small businesses, makers, and creators in their community.

Claire Litchfield, founder of ClaireLitchKnits, attended Inspire’s Christmas market at Sutton Library last year. While self-isolating in November 2020, Claire took the opportunity to teach herself to knit and so began the journey to creating her own business.

ClaireLitchKnits launched in 2021 and features an array of handmade accessories which have proved popular at markets around the county.

Speaking about last year’s festive market in Sutton, she said: “It was such a lovely atmosphere,” she says, “all the staff were so welcoming and couldn’t do enough for you. The other stallholders were also wonderful, and it was great to chat with them about their experience as small business owners.”

The markets have attracted a wide range of goods, with items for the whole family including board games, handmade greetings cards, and sweet treats to name but a few.

Claire, who will be at the markets at both Mansfield and Sutton in November, added: “I’ve a few new products I’m really excited about, I can’t wait to show off my hand-crocheted bags. I’ve gotten so many compliments on one I used over the summer so I can’t wait to see what everyone else thinks of them… although if there’s some amazing cakes like last year, that’s my answer too!”

Mansfield Central Library promises a day of fun for all the family on Saturday, 18th November, with a children’s crafting session from 11am until 1pm, and a performance by the Mansfield Ukulele Group at 12pm. Little ones will be welcomed into Santa’s grotto at two sessions throughout the day, at 11am and 1pm.

At Sutton Library there will be festive cheer aplenty, with complimentary hot drinks and mince pies on offer plus the Rolls Royce Rollers choir. Indulge in fun reminiscent of traditional fayres with a tombola featuring prizes donated by local businesses, then grab a bookish bargain at their Recycled Reads station.

Peter Gaw, chief executive of Inspire, said: “I’m delighted that we’re able to host Christmas markets for a second year in our libraries, there really is something for everyone. I am proud of the impact we have had on entrepreneurs in our communities, and excited for the opportunities we continue to present as we support these inspired individuals.”

Visit inspireculture.org.uk/markets for full information.