A dedicated band of villagers are aiming to restore some community spirit and bring people together again following the pandemic by organising the first-ever Rawcliffe Parish Christmas Fayre.
The Fayre will take place on Sunday, November 28 and the team are closing the street along the Riverside to accommodate more than 30 stalls showcasing the best local crafts, gifts, produce and goods while bringing some much-needed festive cheer to the people of Rawcliffe and Rawcliffe Bridge.
After two years of cancelled events, the organisers are hoping to end the isolation and bring everyone from the villages and beyond together to pick up some unique gifts and enjoy live music, carol singers, food and also visit Santa’s grotto. The event runs from 12 noon to 4pm and will also involve local schools, businesses and the church. The Fayre will be followed by the official switching on of the Rawcliffe Christmas lights on the Green at 4.30pm. It will also be raising money for the Just 4 Children charity - Noah Jack’s Journey, which is working to support a local boy who was born with severe disabilities and needs constant care and treatments.
Chairman of the Rawcliffe Parish Christmas Fayre, Ben Pindar, says: “It has been a challenging couple of years for the whole community but lockdown has spawned a new generation of artisan craft makers who found new hobbies, talents and passions over the past few months. “This event will not only be an opportunity for them to showcase these new-found skills but also the first chance we’ve all had to get together in two years and have some festive fun. “We have already secured some amazing local craftspeople but there are still opportunities for more people to get involved and have their own stall. We’d urge everyone to get involved, whether you are selling your goods or just joining a fantastic family event for the whole community. “This will be a great day out for everyone and you will also be able to get some truly unique gifts that are made with love, locally.”
For anyone wanting to take a stall, booking forms are available from Costcutter Rawcliffe, Rawcliffe Bridge Shop or The Jemmy Hirst pub. Alternatively, you can email Jill.taylor67@hotmail.co.uk Further updates as we approach the event are available from the Rawcliffe Parish Festival Facebook page. To learn more about the Noah Jack’s Journey charity appeal, or to make a donation, visit https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/NoahJacksJourney
Pictured are Rawcliffe Parish Fayre Committee. From left, John Smith, Wendy Smith, Debbie Newton, Bill Sables, Carol Killgallon, Patrick Killgallon and Jill Taylor. (28-10-419 SU)