Am concerned over an email exchange copied to me because of my recent blog entries (such as this one) about the sale of Alexandra Palace to the Firoka Group. The exchange is between a newspaper journalist and someone involved in the Antiques Fair which takes place annually at the Pally. Apparently, the Antiques Fair is not going to be here next year because the contract has been changed (I don’t know in what way yet) to make it impossible for them to sign for next year. Whether this is conditions or price hike or whatever – I don’t know yet and am writing to Keith Holder (who runs the Palace) to enquire.

I spoke to the journalist who informed me that it isn’t only the Antiques Fair who are having to leave – but also the Classic Car show – and the Motorcycle event is being cut from nine to three days. Anyway – I will pursue to find out the real situation.

I think it is important that the Palace Board makes it clear as to why exhibitors who have come to the Ally Pally year after year after year are now not renewing their contracts.

And as an avid annual visitor to Knit and Stitch and the Christmas Crafts Fair – I declare an interest!

UPDATE: As has been pointed out to me, I should have made clear the distinction between Alexandra Palace Trading Limited (who are responsible for the events at Alexandra Palace itself) and the Trust, which is the overall body for the whole site and is the owner of the limited company – but does not control its day-to-day activities.

Re. the Antiques Fair – Alexandra Palace Trading Limited has been in touch to say they’re writing to explain they’re side of the story. However the email to me also said that the information in the letter (which I’ve not yet received) is confidential, so even when I do know it, I won’t be able to say what I know by the looks of it.

Re the Motorcycle Show – the London Motorcycle show has moved to a new (bigger) venue – and it is its replacement which is the shorter, three-day event.

But one bit of good news that I can tell you – the annual fireworks display is protected in the lease. Good news! (At least for humans…!) And there will be a classic car show in February.