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Christmas Fair at Ely College raises an impressive £1,400 - and organisers already looking to 2019 to repeat their success

John Elworthy

Published: 10:13 AM December 3, 2018

Updated: 11:35 AM November 1, 2020

Ely College Christmas market on November 29 was a fantastic festive success, raising £1400 for their PE and Drama departments. An event set to be repeated next year! Picture; ELY COLLEGE - Credit: Archant

Hundreds turned out support Ely College and small businesses at a special Christmas market.

Ely College Christmas market was a fantastic festive success, raising £1,400 for their PE and drama departments.

“It is an event set to be repeated next year,” said a college spokesman.

Earlier this year, two members of staff had a plan to give something back to the community, an opportunity to come together and get some Christmas shopping done; all whilst hopefully raising funds for the students.

“It was the rest of the community who went above and beyond to make this market such a spectacular occasion,” he said.

“Whether it was the Bishop Laney catering students offering homemade mince pie and refreshments, or the drama club entertaining the crowds, staff and students gave a helping hand. Hair and beauty students were also on hand to pamper and prepare visitors for the party season.”

Supported by members of the Ely Military Band and fresh from their royal performance for HRH the Prince of Wales earlier in the week, the music department provided the festive spirit.

“Our LRC’s book fair was also popular, selling scholastic titles, which in turn has already gained the school library over £100 in free books,” said the spokesman.

“The support from parents has been overwhelming, with a flurry of tombola donations and local companies donating services and prizes to the grand raffle. Organisers Bev Saddington and Victoria Cutforth are grateful for the support, which has raised enough to make some worthwhile improvements to student resources: “With over 30 different stalls, we are proud that Ely College were able to host such an event providing a wide range of gifts and products.”

“This was our first Christmas market held at the school and it certainly exceeded everyone’s expectations.

“We hope to hold another Christmas market next year to help raise funds for other college departments. For now, we would like to say thank you to everyone who came and supported us.”