It’s been an annus horribilis for Douglas traders.

Ever since a fire ripped through the carpark of the Douglas Village Shopping Centre in August, local traders have been struggling to get back on their feet.

With a huge demolition project now underway and more than €10m worth of damage to sift through, it will be summer 2020 before the centre is expected to reopen.

But life goes on and this weekend, there’s a festive way to show your support to the businesses affected and enjoying some family-friendly fun at the same time.

A Douglas Christmas Market and Family Fun Day will be held in the St Columbas Hall on Tramway Terrace in East Douglas (more commonly known as the Tinny Shed) this Sunday, December 8th, 2019 from 12pm to 2pm.

The event, hosted by Bank of Ireland, will feature a farmer’s market where you can pick up foodie treats for the weekend, as well as a visit from Olympic medallist Rob Heffernan and All Ireland medalist Briege Corkery.

Santa will be dropping by too and the RedFM crew will be taking entries for a free draw for gift vouchers for Douglas Village Shopping Centre businesses, European Cup Munster Rugby V Ospreys match tickets, a signed Munster Rugby jersey and other goodies.