Review: Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities 46th Christmas Market 2019

The joint charities Christmas Market in Chandler’s Ford last weekend didn’t disappoint. The market is now in its 46th year, but the passion never seems to fade over time. You see the same people running the market, and you see familiar faces supporting their chosen charities and informing people about the work that they do, and why they need your donation and support. More and more visitors come to the market each year as the market is such a beautiful Chandler’s Ford Christmas tradition.

I like the warmth and friendliness of the market so much that I go there each year to see old friends, and meet friends for coffee at Dovetail Café afterwards. It’s the sort of market where you have no chance of breaking the bank, and you can buy affordable thoughtful little gifts, stocking fillers, some nice pens and notebooks, little torches, storybooks, toys, and some really good quality Christmas cards.

Former Eastleigh Mayor Cllr Jane Welsh opened the 46th Christmas Market run by Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities Committee. (Left to right): Caroline Husain, Cllr Jane Welsh, and Val Milner, chairman of the Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities Committee. — Former Eastleigh Mayor Cllr Jane Welsh (centre) opened the 46th Christmas Market run by Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities Committee. (Left): Caroline Husain, and on the right, Val Milner, chairman of the Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities Committee.

The market this year was opened by former Eastleigh Mayor Councillor Jane Welsh. The Joint Charities Annual Christmas Market was held at the Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church Hall. These were the charities that took part.

46th Chandler's Ford Joint Charities Christmas Market — 46th Chandler’s Ford Joint Charities Christmas Market

This year my best buy was two hand-knitted scarves and two hats. This marvellous lady in the green jumper (I’m sorry I forgot her name) knitted the most gorgeous hats, and scarves with a clever design – there are two little pockets in the scarf so one end of the scarf can go through a pocket, forming a lovely butterfly effect. The wooly hat is only £6, and the scarf £4.

RSPB - beautiful hand-knitted scarves and toys. — RSPB – beautiful hand-knitted scarves and toys.

I later bought a large container of pre-planted spring bulbs from Jubilee Sailing Trust. It’s only £5 – where else would you get such a great deal?

RNIB - The Royal National Institute of Blind People — RNIB – The Royal National Institute of Blind People

The Cystic Fibrosis Trust is the only UK charity dedicated to fighting for a life unlimited by cystic fibrosis.

Muscular Dystrophy UK (previously known as the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign) is the charity bringing individuals, families and professionals together to fight muscle-wasting conditions.

Metabolic Support UK (formerly known as Climb) are the leading patient organisation for Inherited Metabolic Disorders supporting thousands of patients worldwide.

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea

Chris had a busy morning - parkrun (5k) in the morning before supporting the charities. — Chris had a busy morning – parkrun (5k) in the morning before supporting the charities.

Mencap is a UK charity for people with a learning disability.

(far left) Bloodwise, formerly Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research, is an established UK cancer charity that has been beating blood cancers since 1960.

Brendon Care also had a stand sharing their services.

Let’s not forget to mention the most organised raffle team. The raffle prizes are so excellent – many local businesses are so generous towards this Christmas market. Well done!