Church Christmas fair raises £2,000 (From Watford Observer)

St Paul's, Bushey, helps charities including Watford New Hope Trust and Babies in Prison

2:20pm Wednesday 5th December 2012 in News By Amie Mulderrig, Features Writer

Crowds of people descended on Bushey on Saturday for a Christmas fair organised by St Paul’s Church.

The event has taken place annually for more than 24 years, with money raised going to a selection of nationwide and local charities including Babies in Prison and the Watford New Hope Trust.

More than 200 people gathered at the church in Bushey Hall Road, stocking up on festive goodies including Christmas cards and homemade cakes.

According to organiser Marion Golding, the tombola proved to be a particular hit with more than 200 prizes up for grabs.

She said: "It was a very good event, financially it was our best yet.

"Our Santa Claus was also very well received, particularly among the children. He’s very good.

"We had lots of stalls and very popular tombolas.

"One woman, who had travelled quite a distance to attend, won a prize on our tombola.

"When I called to let her know, she suggested it be raffled off again instead of taking it for herself.

"That’s what’s great about this event, not only is it about the community, but everyone really gets into the festive spirit."

About £2,000 was collected from the fair, which will be divided up among the charities.

Mrs Golding said: "Throughout the year we host a number of fundraisers such as jumble sales, but the Christmas fair is always our main moneymaker.

"It’s important that the church supports charities - that’s the point of the church.

"We may be struggling financially, but we made a decision to continue giving as much as we could and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future."