A REVITALISED annual Christmas gift fair hosted by the Petersfield branch of Save the Children raised more than in previous years and attracted more shoppers.
Held in Churcher’s College sports hall for the first time and spread over two days for the first time, the 34 stalls attracted more than 600 visitors and raised more than £10,000 for the charity.
Branch treasurer Gordon Barker said: “It went very well, it was a great success. The new format was very well received and we generated more than in previous years for this very worthwhile charity.
“I can’t thank enough all the volunteers who helped out, without them it wouldn’t happen.
“Petersfield Scouts and Petersfield Sir Cadets also helped over the two days, and deserve a big thank you.”
East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds and Petersfield Mayor James Deane also attended the fair on October 28 and 29 in support of the good cause.
Joint fair organiser Prue Rushmer said: “This year we were determined to take it up a notch. We decided to get a proper coffee shop and have it on for two days.
“The wonderful thing about having it in Churcher’s College is that we can expose the charity to a whole new set of people from the school.”
Stall holder Chloe Bartron from Liss was selling baskets handmade in Kenya.
The owner of the Dada Duka brand said: “I think it’s wonderful that I can bring goods to this market that are actually from the countries and communities that Save the Children works with.”
Fabulous JJ owner Jane Warn from Farnham said she had been rushed off her feet during the two day fair, which opened on Friday, October 28, and then again on the Saturday.
Jane added: “I have just about coped today, and it’s always so lovely to help such an amazing charity.”