It was great to see the car boot sale at Hempsted Meadows reopen on 27th July after a few months’ closure.

A competitive tender process was conducted to select a long-term operator, although the process at times experienced delays and disagreements.

The car boot sale was previously run under a temporary licence. Capital Boot Sales Group has now secured a long-term lease, which should provide stability into the future and additional income to the council over the lifetime of the lease.

The car boot sale was originally scheduled to open on 20th July, but this was delayed a week after thousands of rusty nails were scattered across the site.

This suspected sabotage was thoughtless and highly dangerous. There were potential risks to both motorists and local dog walkers. If the nails had not been found in time, we can only imagine what might have happened if nails had entered car tyres, or people or dogs were hurt.

The incident cost an estimated £25,000

The incident was reported to the police and the council had to scale up security, repair fencing and remove all the nails at an estimated cost of £25,000.

If you have information about the individuals responsible for the suspected sabotage, please contact the police at 101. The incident number is 256, dated 19th July.

The car boot market is a great family day out where the recycling of goods can take place. I do hope that the market goes from strength to strength. The first Sunday’s trade was a roaring success, and the operators had to find extra space to accommodate the sellers.

The following are quotes from people who attended the first day back for the car boot.
“Great day selling – well organised and lovely friendly atmosphere.”

“Went to sell the handmade candles today. Within three hours I had no stocks of candles, all gone!”

“Super busy. Did not expect such a good turnout on day one.”