Sunshine and blue skies over Bath this morning as l chanced upon a few signs that – despite the warm weather – the mid-winter festival of Christmas will soon be upon us.

The tree has gone up in Abbey Church Yard, and our annual Christmas Market continues in its construction.

They have spread down Bath Street and around the corner for the first time so there is a circle to one side of the Cross Bath.

Bumped into some concerned volunteers from Age UK BANES who bring the old and disabled into their St Michael’s Place Centre for coffee and a chat.
They want to know they will have clear access for people in wheelchairs and certainly won’t want to push their elderly through market crowds.

Outside the Roman Bath’s the food and drink bar – which qualifies as a chalet as it’s big enough – was setting up shop. It replaced the Victorian carousel a few years ago – much to many a Bathonian’s displeasure.

A bit of a compromise this year as the ‘gallopers’ will be on this site straight after the market ends.

At least the Abbey Hotel – busy putting up its Apres Ski Chalet – says the Snow Globe will be alongside – as usual. One bit of fun for all the family.

Away from Christmas preparations and into the Saw Close where the first occupant of the newmulti-million-poundd development is getting ready to open.

My understanding is that restaurant chain Zizzi will be having an in-house service try-out this weekend for family and friends. So an official opening cannot be many days away.
More info on the Christmas Market via http://bathchristmasmarket.co.uk