IT WAS a weekend of festivity – but also of remembrance – for The Rosemary Foundation.

On Saturday, hundreds of visitors packed into the village hall at East Meon for the hospice-at-home charity’s annual Christmas Fair.

This raised more than £3,000, which will go directly towards putting nurses into the homes of patients needing care at the end of their lives.

Organisers say they were amazed at the turn-out and the cash raised considering so many festive events were going on in the area that day.

“It was phenomenal, and we are thrilled,” said clinical manager Julie Cotsell.

There were cakes on sale, a giant tombola, raffle, crafts, Christmas cards and gifts.

Other good causes set up stalls at the event too.

This annual fair is one of The Rosemary Foundation’s biggest fundraisers of the year, and being well supported means a boost to running costs.

Family members of bereaved peopl who had been cared for by the charity were invited to a Lights of Remembrance service on Sunday.

This is also an annual event, held at Langrish House Hotel, with a simple service during which the names of the deceased are read out.

The Rosemary Foundation Christmas tree lights are then switched on, and mulled wine and mince pies enjoyed.

This year 77 people attended the poignant occasion.

For more details on events supporting the charity, and on its work, visit www.rosemary-foundation.org.uk