MEAT traders at London's historic Smithfield Market auctioned off cheap turkeys and other meats to eager bidders on Tuesday, continuing a long-standing Christmas tradition.
However, the future of this festive event is uncertain following recent decisions about the market’s closure.
Smithfield Market, located in the City of London financial district, has been a hub for meat and livestock trading for nearly 900 years. At its peak, it attracted sellers from across England and produce from countries such as Argentina and Australia.
Last month, City authorities decided to close the market, paving the way for redevelopment of the prime real estate. The market is permitted to operate at its current location until 2028, with most traders planning to move to a new site within London thereafter.
Every Christmas Eve for decades, crowds have gathered at Smithfield Market to buy surplus meat at discounted prices. Buyers exchange cash for cuts of red meat or poultry, often tossed into the crowd by butchers.
"The atmosphere is fantastic," said Greg Lawrence, chairman of the Smithfield Market Tenants. "To a lot of people, it's the beginning of Christmas. They come up here early, they go to breakfast, they come to the auction, they purchase their goods, then they go to the pub."
Hundreds of people, some wearing Santa hats or holding placards with meat orders, filled the Victorian market building. Punters waved banknotes to catch the attention of butchers, who threw turkeys or ribeye steaks into the cheering crowd.
While many attendees came for the bargains, others were drawn by the unique festive atmosphere.
"Everyone's so friendly, and everyone's rooting for everyone to get something for Christmas Day," said Sharon, who only shared her first name. "It's amazing."
INDIAN prime minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with naval personnel aboard aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, describing it as a symbol of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India).
Modi arrived on Sunday (19) evening and boarded the home-built carrier off Goa's coast following a discreet journey. Onboard the vessel, he visited the flight deck surrounded by MiG 29K fighter aircraft and observed multiple takeoff and landing operations conducted both during daylight and darkness.
The programme included a performance by Navy officers and sailors who sang patriotic compositions. One song, specially written by personnel, commemorated Operation Sindoor's success by the Indian Armed Forces. Modi shared dinner with naval staff during the Bara Khana, engaging with members and their families.
On Monday (20) morning, the prime minister participated in a yoga session on deck and witnessed a flypast featuring warships and aircraft. He subsequently addressed the assembled personnel and distributed sweets.
Modi interacts with naval personnel aboard INS Vikrant. (Handout via PTI Photo)
"INS Vikrant is not merely a warship. It represents 21st-century India's work, talent and commitment," Modi said during his address.
He highlighted the strategic significance of Brahmos missiles, noting their international demand. Multiple countries now seek to purchase the systems, Modi added.
Reflecting on his experience, Modi said: "My night aboard INS Vikrant is difficult to convey. The energy you demonstrated was remarkable. When I heard you sing patriotic songs, particularly your account of Operation Sindoor, no words can fully express what a serviceman experiences on duty. My Diwali has been special spending it amongst you."
INS Vikrant, commissioned in 2022, is India's first home-built aircraft carrier and the nation's second operational carrier following INS Vikramaditya, which was constructed on a Russian platform. The vessel ranks as the largest warship built in India.
Modi has observed Diwali with the armed forces annually since 2014, continuing the tradition that connects political leadership with defence personnel during the festival.
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