Santa helps draw crowds

ROYTON Christmas fair was such a cracker it’ll be back with an even bigger bang next year, say organisers.

Royton fundraiser Debbie Howarth and sisters Vicky Moorfield and Nicola Depetrillo, from Sweet Inspirations, staged their third annual event in aid of Dr Kershaw’s Hospice — this time at Crompton and Royton Golf Club.

More than 350 people flocked through the doors to visit the 25 stalls, selling everything festive from Christmas cakes to chutneys — and Greenfield Brewery offered some of its finest ales.

Father Christmas was kept busy as youngsters visited him in his grotto and the Soul Inspiration choir lined the steps, belting out popular tunes to get everyone in the festive spirit.

The event raised more than £450 and Debbie said: “It was absolutely brilliant and we want everyone to come back next year.

“Obviously we’ve learned some lessons but that will just make it even better next year.

“I can’t say enough about the stall holders, and the choir who played far longer than we asked them to. they were great.”

Children also enjoyed rides on Shetland ponies and everyone was entered into a raffle to win a chocolate hamper.

Vicky added: “We are just overwhelmed with the number of people who turned up. We just didn’t expect it at all so we’re really pleased.”