Burnley Council reviews decision to charge gym owner Michelle Williamson £100 to host a charity Christmas market for Pendleside Hospice.

A spokesman for Burnley Council said that after carrying out a review, the fee for Michelle Williamson’s event this Sunday at her gym, Shell’s Fitness in Harle Syke’s King’s Mill, would be dropped to £20.

A spokesman for the council said: “Having reviewed this we will proceed based on charging the £20 fee rather than the £100 fee. I do hope the event goes well and everyone enjoys the day.”

Delighted at the news Michelle, who is a regular fund raiser for the hospice, revealed that neighbouring business Kiddy Kids, which is based next door to her gym, had stepped in with an offer to pay the £100 and would also cover the reduced fee. Michelle said: “Many thanks to the council for reducing the payment to £20. What a fantastic place Burnley is, with the generous donation from Kiddy Kids. That is just wonderful.”

Charity champion Michelle was told she would have to pay a £100 ‘charge’ in line with a market licensing policy granted in 1294.

But she asked the local authority to re-consider its decision as each of the 15 stall holders have all paid £15 to take part and this will be put in the pot for the hospice. They have also donated several prizes for a tombola that will raise vital funds.