THE annual Christmas Craft and Food Fair, held to raise money towards the cost of the Christmas lights switch on, saw lots of appreciative people turn out.

The Fair was held the day after the switch on and many of the people who turned out to show their support had witnessed the lights the night before and enjoyed seeing the town lit up.

Over 700 people headed to the Victoria Halls across the day to see the variety of products on offer at the 40 stalls and get some Christmas gift inspiration.

Councillor Vivien Dance, a member of Friends of the Victoria Hall, who organised the light switch on with the help of volunteers, was delighted with the events success.

She said: "This event was extremely successful once again this year. We had forty stalls and the majority of them told us afterwards that they were very pleased with what they sold on the day, some even increasing on last year’s sales because many customers came back to buy again from them.

"Over the day we had over seven hundred visitors to the hall and we got very good feedback from them that the fair was most enjoyable as they staggered out with bags of hand made crafts.

"Many of our visitors had been at the lights switch on the night before and told us how much they appreciated seeing the town lit up for the festive season and they came along to support our fair by getting in to the serious business of present buying.

"Our tea room was extremely busy too and not surprising too given the scrumptious home baking on offer and the mums raising funds for Highland Dancing trips were delighted with their takings."

Organisers extend there thanks to everyone to went along to support the event. Cllr Dance added: "We do enjoy meeting everyone on the day and having time to chat. Now down to planning for next year with lots of new plans and ideas already under discussion. Ho Ho Ho, have a happy time this Christmas."