THE ORGANISERS of a Christmas market in Odiham have said they are 'heartbroken' after being forced to cancel the event due to bad weather.

The Christmas Extravaganza was scheduled to take place in the village on Sunday, November 24, however, it was cancelled just days before due to forecasted strong winds.

Organised by non-profit organisation inOdiham, the market was set to feature 80 stalls, from local traders and small businesses, brass bands, refreshments, a choir, a theatre group, a Father Christmas grotto and rides including a big wheel.

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In a statement made on Facebook on Thursday, November 21, the organisation said 'with great regret and following very careful consideration' they decided that had 'no choice but to cancel this year's Christmas Extravaganza'.

They added that they had been 'monitoring the weather' but based on forecasts which predicted winds 'gusting between 30 and 50mph' they had to 'put safety first'.

The volunteer-led organisation said that they chose to make the decision before the event to 'update people with as much notice as possible'.

The statement urged residents to 'head up and support' high street shops open on Sunday, November 24 instead, concluding: "All the team are heartbroken, but we hope you understand."

Residents reacted to the announcement, calling it a 'tough decision but completely understandable'.

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One added: "A shame but the correct and safe thing to do."

Another said the cancellation was 'a real shame' but that they would 'still be enjoying everything the high street will have to offer on the day'.

Storm Bert will hit the UK this weekend, bringing heavy rain and winds on Saturday and wind and mild temperatures, along with 'further outbreaks of rain' on Sunday.

According to the Met Office forecast, which is accurate at the time of writing, the village can expect gusts of 50mph from 12am to 12pm, before 35 mph winds reach the area from 3pm, although this is subject to change.