Christ Church Christmas Market a big success

Dozens of charities are better off following this year's Christ Church Christmas Market.

Members of the organisations handed out leaflets and sweets, sold a variety of items and raffled goods.
The event was once again organised by the Friends of Christ Church, led by Chair Chris Smith.   

Chris said: “It was lovely to see so many local people of all ages enjoying our traditional curtain raiser to the Christmas period . It’s very obvious that the charity sector in Swindon is alive and kicking 

“I must thank our wonderful volunteers who make the event possible as well as all those who set up their stalls and show the very best of the community in Swindon.”
The event was officially opened by Mayor of Swindon Cllr Barbara Parry, who said: "It was an absolute pleasure to open the Christ Church Christmas Market  and so wonderful to see so many of Swindon's volunteers come together under one roof and to be so well supported by the Swindon community doing some Christmas shopping.  
"This church is very special to me as it is where my husband and I were married and where our children were christened.  Thank you and congratulations to all involved in organising this very successful event"
Father Christmas made a guest appearance and rumours circulated that he was associated in some way with Swindon Lions . When asked to comment all he would say was: “Ho ho ho.” He the marched off to hand out more sweets.