A market set up to bring unity to a town that hit national headlines after a riot during a summer of racist unrest will take place later this month.
Tom Justice, who is one of the directors of the company, started Wath Artisan Markets to try to bring harmony back to the town after a violent attack which took place two years ago at the Holiday Inn.
In August 2024 the Holiday Inn was violently attacked by locals and caused division in the area. Rioters had smashed their way into the building as hotel staff tried to barricade doors to prevent them from making a way in.
The director of the event said: “It’s nice to get the community back together and bring everyone closer again.”
The riots were instigated due to the Southport killings which kickstarted aggressive behaviours that led to asylum seekers being the main target.
He added: “ My business partner witnessed the attack firsthand, our main reason to host these markets has always been because of the incidents which took place.”
A well known burger van called Meat Castles will also be making an appearance, they have won multiple awards like BurgerFest 2025 and were even mentioned in the New York Times.
The organisers of the event wanted the event to feel put together and unique as they previously would get annoyed when visiting other markets which weren’t organised.
It will hold craft sessions, crocheting and there will be a mix of different homemade gifts being sold on the day.
The event will be open to the public on the 24th May and will be held inside the Holiday Inn on Manvers Way.
They will have a variety of stalls so whether you are coming alone or with the family there is always something to do.
He said: “It’s a Yorkshire event for Yorkshire folk and run by Yorkshire folk.”
They don’t only hold markets throughout the year but they also will be hosting carboot sales and even a festival to help encourage the public to have a fun day out and get to know each other.
The festival has already had 7,000 people sign up to come along and the entry is free for the public.
You can find out more about the event over on their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/people/Bobby-Dazzler-Yorkshire-Events/61580894224871/ or sign up via Discover Bobby Dazzler Events Events | Tickets & Details | AllEvents