The much-anticipated Gloucester car boot sale scheduled for Hempsted Meadow has been postponed after thousands of rusty nails were deliberately scattered across the site. The discovery has raised serious safety concerns for both vehicles and pedestrians, prompting a rescheduling of the event to Sunday, July 27.
Capital Car Boot Sales, the event’s organizer, announced the delay following a major clean-up operation. A spokesperson expressed deep disappointment over the sabotage, stating, “We are massively disappointed that we have had to reschedule for the 27th. It is incredibly sad to let down all the buyers and sellers who planned to attend at this late stage.”
Gloucestershire Police are investigating the incident as a suspected act of vandalism. The site, owned by Gloucester City Council, was deemed unsafe until cleared of the hazardous nails.
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Council leader Jeremy Hilton condemned the act as “thoughtless and highly dangerous,” emphasizing the potential risk posed not only to motorists but also to local dog walkers. “If the nails had not been found in time, the consequences could have been severe, including punctured tires or injured pets,” he warned.
Cleanup efforts are currently underway using magnets and specialized equipment to ensure the area’s safety. In addition, enhanced security measures have been put in place to prevent any future incidents.
Capital Car Boot Sales was awarded the contract to manage the Gloucester market following a competitive bidding process. The market will operate every Wednesday and Sunday, with early buying available from 8 a.m. at £3 per person. Standard admission starts at 10 a.m. for 50p, and children under 12 enter free. Sellers can set up from 7 a.m. for an extra £5 or from 8 a.m. at the standard rate of £5 per parking bay. Trading is not permitted before 8 a.m.
Apart from Gloucester, Capital Car Boot Sales also runs markets in Colchester, Chelmsford, Bishop’s Stortford, Great Amwell, Cuffley, and Edmonton, maintaining a strong presence across the region.