Plans are underway to give Harborough a Christmas celebration event after what has been a tough year

Council chiefs in Market Harborough are set to turn the clock back deep into the 19th century this Christmas.

They are looking at staging a Victorian Christmas as they set out to give embattled businesses a good old-fashioned yuletide shot in the arm.

The council said it’s been a “hugely challenging year” for shops and traders battered by the Covid-19 crisis.

And the traditional Christmas lights switch-on in Market Harborough, which always attracts big crowds, won’t go ahead as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

But the Christmas tree on The Square and festive lights will be installed as usual to kick off the festive season from Friday November 20.

Small trees will also be perched above shop fronts as the town revs up the Christmas spirit.

A Victorian Christmas market is also being explored along with Late Night Shopping and a children’s Victorian trail.

Fancy dress and a photography contest, window-dressing competition and a festive ‘shop local’ campaign could also be staged to supercharge the local economy.

“Harborough District Council is also looking to support businesses in other towns and villages to help maximise the opportunities to encourage people to ‘shop local’ at this important time of year for the retail sector,” said the authority.

Cllr Phil King, who heads up the council, said: “Whilst there is a lot of uncertainty about the future in the current climate it’s important we continue to support businesses in any way we can.

“We are aware that Christmas is a very important time for retailers.”

He added: “We are exploring what we can do to encourage more shoppers into town and retail centres at this time.”

The council will publicise full details of festive events coming up as soon as they are confirmed.