THE WEATHER outside was frightful but the mood inside Merchistoun Hall was delightful on Sunday as villagers got in the festive mood.

The gamble by the Horndean Community Association (HCA) to hold their Christmas Fayre on a Sunday evening paid off judging by the size of the crowds.

The atmosphere was joyful and triumphant thanks to live festive music by the likes of Spirit of the South and the Hampshire Youth Saxophone and Clarinet Orchestra.

Father Christmas also made an appearance while there was plenty to inspire shoppers with jewellery, knitwear, sweets and Christmas decorations all going on sale. Brendan Charles, hall manager, believes the HCA has achieved its aim of emulating the Christmas fayres that took place in the precinct.

He said: “It went very well considering it was a Sunday evening and the weather outside was pretty poor.

“We would love to hold another one next year.”