Christmas Market and Winter Wonderland raises £8,000
Over 300 people came along to our Christmas Market and Winter Wonderland and raised a fantastic £8,000 to help people and families who need the compassionate care of Saint Francis Hospice.
The fabulously festive event took place over two days at the Pepperell Education Centre at the hospice and was the perfect way to kick-start the season of giving!
There was a great atmosphere and so much to enjoy for all the family, from local stall holders selling jewellery and candles to baked goods, to entertainment from Marie Who sang festive songs for all to enjoy.
Supporters got a lovely surprise and welcome from two donkeys who came along to meet visitors.
The event would not have been complete without the presence of our North Pole celebrity, Father Christmas, who greeted children in his grotto.
We’re delighted to say that all the children who attended where on the good list and left with a special gift!
We’re so grateful to everyone who came along and made the event such a success. You are all amazing.
Here’s just some of the amazing feedback we’ve had about the Christmas Market and Winter Wonderland.
Andrew Rosindell, Conservative MP for Romford, said, “It’s wonderful to be here at Saint Francis Hospice’s Christmas fair with so many lovely people and raising money for a fantastic cause that does so much for local families.
“One of the best things about today is seeing the miniature Mediterranean donkeys, they were so cute and it’s really made my Christmas.
“Thank you for the lovely welcome and I look forward to coming back in the New Year and continuing to support Saint Francis Hospice.”
We received lots of comments on our Facebook page.
Jo said, “We had a lovely time today and picked up lovely bits that were such bargains. We saw Father Christmas too. Thank you, Saint Francis Hospice.”
Anita said, “Thank you for letting me be part of your day. Such a lovely atmosphere with wonderful staff and volunteers. Hope you all have a lovely Christmas.”
Sandra said, “I was there this morning, bought some lovely bits and also joined the lottery. A great cause.”
Lisa said, “We were there this morning. Bought some lovely bits and lots of raffle tickets.”
A supporter who came along with her aunt and said,” I would like to congratulate the hospice for the lovely Christmas market you had today.
“I brought my aunt and we had a lovely time, it was the best market we have attended at the hospice so far, with a lot more stalls and choice including lovely food available and hot drinks too.
“It was well organised and spaced out and looked very festive. The raffle prizes are amazing and very tempting.”
And another visitor praised our wonderful volunteers saying, “Everyone was so nice, and the volunteers were very kind and enthusiastic throughout the day.
“The atmosphere was great, and I hope the hospice has managed to raise a good sum of money. I look forward to seeing the final total.”
