Traders criticised South Holland District Council's scheme to move the event to the evening of Friday, December 5, because they fear they will lose out.

The council scrapped the all-day shopping event and Santa's grotto because bad weather resulted in many market traders failing to turn up.

By the time a date for this year was chosen there was no room at the South Holland Centre for Santa's grotto as the venue was booked up.

The grotto is now being hosted at AlleyCatz bowling alley in Westlode Street.

At a recent Spalding Town Forum meeting one trader said: "From a retail point of view it was better on a Sunday. That was the best day for us and for Spalding."

Some members were concerned about evening events, which turn to mayhem after 8pm when drinking begins in the town centre.

Some also had worries about a craft fair at Ayscoughfee Hall on December 6 and 7 because they felt it would take people away from their businesses too.

Council events and marketing assistant Adam Patman said that historically evening events have attracted more people but said it was possible the festivities would be moved back to a Sunday in the future.

He said: "We do want the Friday night to be a good evening and just see what happens. We can get together at the beginning of the year and talk about it."

n Father Christmas, sponsored by Spalding Lions, is switching on the lights at 6.45pm on December 5.

Other events include charity stalls in Market Place between 2pm and 9pm with performance areas in Market Place and Hall Place for acts such as Spalding School of Dance, Act II, Polkadot Academy, South Holland Singers and Kirton Brass Band.

The event will be compered by Tulip Radio and there will be children's rides in the Market Place until around 9pm.

Traders in The Crescent will be staying open late and offering treats in and out of store for shoppers.