By Betsy Everett
In just four hours on a cold November day, Askrigg and Bainbridge PTFA made over £1,000 at their annual Christmas Fair.
With a range of local produce, goods and crafts on sale, home-made refreshments and a lot of community support, the fair was “a fantastic team effort,” said Helen Dalton.
Among the exhibitors was Kate Cole of Bellerby, of Kate’s Kitchen Preserves, who makes jams, jellies, chutneys and cordials from local produce and foraged materials, Lindsey Whaley, from Usborne Books which takes children’s books into schools, and Lisa Webb of Scotton who has written and published nine children’s books, including three about Dalesman Dan, two about Ernest the Mouses, for early readers, three for older readers who can choose the direction of the story, and the standalone title, Grandpa Brian and Grandma Brenda’s Grand Day Out.
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The final figure raised at the fair was £1033 after costs.
“We are delighted with the result,” said Mrs Dalton. “It never ceases to amaze us how parents, family and friends put so much effort into making the event a success and we are always so well supported by the local community.”
Forthcoming events include a a quiz and, by popular demand, a curry night at the Wheatsheaf Inn in Carperby, says committee member Kate Hodgson who also thanked everyone for their support.
“We had so many donations of chocolate, bric-a-brac and mince pies, not to mention all the volunteers who helped to plan the event. The money raised from this fantastic group effort will be put to good use and benefit all of the children in Askrigg and Bainbridge schools.
The fair has become a major fundraiser for the parents, teachers and friends association: money raised throughout the year pays for activities which are outside the curriculum for the 58 pupils.
Most recently the PTFA financed transport costs for a visit to the 500-pupil Allerton Primary School, where another two classrooms have been built since their last visit a year ago.
“During our visit the children baked scones in their fully equipped kitchen and made Christmas cards in their art studio, ending the day with a reflection session where it was lovely to hear the children describe the ‘best bits’ of the visit. Thanks to Askrigg and Bainbridge PTFA for fully funding the transport costs of the visit, offering our children experiences t hat enrich their curriculum and develop our partnership with the school,” said teacher, Eleanor Harrison.
