Romsey Abbey Christmas Fair to return this weekend

The Romsey Abbey Christmas Fair is back on Saturday, November 30, with various stalls and attractions for the whole family.

The event has been a feature in the Abbey’s calendar for more than 28 years, helping to raise funds for the much-loved building.

This year, the fair will be opened at 10am by the Mayor of Romsey, Cllr John Parker, and the Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr Ian Jeffrey, along with the vicar of Romsey, the Reverend Thomas Wharton.

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All the proceeds of the fair will go to Abbey funds to help with the £1,500 per day upkeep and running costs (Image: Romsey Abbey) The Romsey town crier, Terry Hamer, will assist with the opening, alongside the Romsey Abbey bell ringers.

Rev Thomas Wharton said: "We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to this wonderful community event and having the excuse to get the Christmas jumpers out early."

Throughout the fair, there will be choirs performing seasonal music to entertain shoppers, directed by Marion Maxey.

First up will be the children of Romsey Abbey Primary School, followed by Romsey Voices.

Also singing is the all-ladies choir, Songbird, making their Abbey debut.

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There will be plenty of stalls for people to browse (Image: Romsey Abbey) The fair's organiser Liz Wagner said: "The Abbey Fair is always the ideal place for Christmas shopping.

"Stalls will include homemade preserves, bread and cakes, along with a very well-stocked book stall, Christmas decorations, a bottle tombola, jewellery, cards and stationery. There will be lots of toys and games on sale. The Abbey Gift Shop will also be open.

"The Abbey Fair is always a happy occasion with all the stalls organised and run by members of the Abbey community.

"It’s such a wonderful team effort and there will be something for all ages, with lots of bargains."

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The fair will also see the return of the soft toy tombola, which is always a hit with the children.

Father Christmas will also be in attendance, residing in the Abbey’s St Nicholas Chapel.

To help with the festive spirit, mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the Abbey, with homemade cakes, biscuits, soup and sandwiches also on offer.

An admission charge of £1 will apply, with children free.

All the proceeds of the fair will go to Abbey funds to help with the £1,500 per day upkeep and running costs.