As the government is in Brexit turmoil (‘near Civil War’, according to the BBC), we’re bringing you some stability here from Chandler’s Ford for a change.
The annual Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities Christmas Market brings the sort of stability, unity, and friendship that we all need at times of crisis. Last weekend I went to the market, as I had done so for many years, and felt warmth, joy, and a genuine sense of hope for the future.
This year the atmosphere of the market was hugely enhanced by live singing. Singer Emily Blackledge sang beautifully. Thank you Emily!
I saw the same people running around selling raffle tickets. The same groups of people were selling Christmas cards and gifts for their charities.
In my mind, the Joint Charities Christmas Market signals the start of Christmas in Chandler’s Ford.
As before, the market was opened by a past mayor. Jane Welsh opened the 45th Christmas Market this year.
The participating charities are:
- Bloodwise: Beating blood cancer
- British Heart Foundation: We fight for every heartbeat
- Cystic Fibrosis Trust: Fighting for a life unlimited
- Eastleigh Borough and Romsey Mencap Society: Protect and enhance the life chances of children and adults with learning disabilities
- Jubilee Sailing Trust (JST): Changing lives. We take both able-bodied and disabled people to sea.
- Metabolic Support UK (formerly Climb): leading patient organisation for Inherited Metabolic Disorders supporting thousands of patients worldwide.
- Muscular Dystrophy UK: Fighting muscle-wasting conditions
- Myaware: Fighting Myasthenia together
- Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB): Supporting people with sight loss
- Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI): Saving lives at sea
- Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (The RSPB): Giving nature a home
This year, there were new groups too. A hardworking young Scout was fundraising for the 24th World Scout Jamboree. BrendonCare, known for its care for older people, was also there promoting their services.
Review: Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities 44th Christmas Market 2017
Review: Joint Charities 43rd Annual Christmas Market Chandler’s Ford 2016
Uplifting: Chandler’s Ford 42nd Joint Charities Christmas Market 2015
Heart-warming Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities 41st Christmas Market 2014
Related posts:
Heart-warming Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities 41st Christmas Market 2014
Uplifting: Chandler’s Ford 42nd Joint Charities Christmas Market 2015
Joint Charities 43rd Christmas Market: Saturday 12th November 2016 at Methodist Church Hall
Review: Joint Charities 43rd Annual Christmas Market Chandler’s Ford 2016
Review: Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities 44th Christmas Market 2017
They deserve the support of all Chandlers Ford Community.
I’m not a church goer but some of the friendliness people you could ever meet. Many time I go to the cafe and you always get a welcome.
Best Toasted tea cakes in the area just for a pound. I am glad the charity Market was a success.
You don’t have to go to church to be a good person. Try once a week to help someone. The only payment you need back is a smile.
Steve,
I agree with you that Dovetail Cafe is a wonderful place. It’s a bright and cheerful place to meet people.
Yes I also love the toasted tea cakes and fresh coffee there.
You’re right – we all can be kind to others. The Chandler’s Ford produce and crafts markets that you run for the local people show your kindness towards others.
All the best to you.