Christmas Fair big boost for charity

Local charities will be smiling this Christmas after the huge success of the 61st annual Christmas Fair Fund Country Fair last week.

The fair attracted a record number of more than 1750 people, and while the official tally of profits is yet to be determined,  organisers estimate around R190 000 was raised.

Chairlady Michelle Blake said the committee is overwhelmed after one of their best fairs ever.

“It was truly beyond any expectation we could have had.”

She said the fair has come a long way from its humble beginnings at a little country club in Darnall, hosted by a farmer’s wife.

“Now, we proudly host a massive event our entire community is able to look forward to and enjoy. We are so happy that our hard work paid off.”

Blake said the committee would meet to assess their projects and distribute the money among 23 beneficiaries, including local orphanages and crèches, rural primary schools and the Orphan Fund.

Blake thanked the community for their support and all who stepped in to help.

“There is a long list of people who gave of their time and skills to make the fair a success and we cannot thank them enough. We are looking forward to the next one!”

On Wednesday and Thursday last week Collisheen Estate was transformed into a candy-coloured wonderland with gorgeous decorations and a myriad of things to do.

From trinkets and bracelets to babygrows and onesies, to decadent cupcakes and savouries there was something for everyone to do… and eat.

The weather graciously played its part with warm sun on the first day and not even a little smattering of rain kept visitors away on day two.

Locals thoroughly enjoyed themselves, as was clearly seen with Alpha Security guard Rex Hunt, who was sampling goodies from the Hearts that Hope stand when the Courier caught up with him.

“By far the best fair I have been to,” he declared.