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Search forPopular craft fair brings in £4,000 for school funds
Wednesday, December 03, 2008, 23:00
A range of jewellery, toys and hand-made goods were sold at the event and money raised will be used to buy new equipment for the school's pupils.
The event seems to be gaining momentum and is becoming recognised as one of the biggest events of the year for the craftsman's diary.
Richard Fisher, technology teacher, said: "It seems to be one of the more well-known events on the craft fair circuit, but it is just a fundraiser for the school, so all the money comes back to the different departments.
"We had around 90 stallholders this year and, because it is such a popular fair, we were able to raise £700 more than last year.
"I heard that a few people came from as far as Saltash, Cornwall, and there were several visitors from North Devon and Somerset.
"We had a steady stream of people coming through the doors. Interesting too that this was our 22nd fair and it was held on November 22 — I didn't realise that until afterwards.
"It was successful and well received. We had a new school hall built here recently so money raised from previous fairs was used to buy much-needed equipment for that," added Mr Fisher.
Some of the school's younger children made and displayed a range of colourful creations, including lanterns and Christmas decorations. A range of hand-made cards, wooden toys, candles, scarves and other textile garments were also popular additions at the event.
But Pat Hobson and Bertie Rawlings, both 15, decided they would boost school funds for an aid trip to Gambia by washing visitors' cars on site.
Mr Fisher said a lot of work has gone into the fair since invitations were sent out in July and was pleased at the turnout and the "variety" of wares sold on the day.
He said: "The parents also work very hard for this event. They also sold refreshments throughout the day which gave us a boost. Children also helped out and we had a number of pupil-run stalls — including some Year-11 girls who were raising money for a textiles project.
"In the past we've had a problem with the number of people who want to come along, but this new hall has been a real bonus and we were able to get everyone under the same roof."
The Parent, Teacher and Friends of Uffculme School Association will distribute the funds to school departments in need of new equipment.
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