A CHRISTMAS Bazaar organised by Rose Palmer and her colleagues from Crediton group, Slim4Life, was such a success that it raised an amazing £1,027.29, which is to be donated to local charities.

There were many stalls from local businesses and traders and a large Christmas draw of more than 100 donated items, all the prizes which had been donated by local businesses and individuals.

Rose said after the event: "Thanks to all who attended the Christmas bazaar.

"Despite the awful weather, more than 195 people packed into the Boniface Centre, where there was a terrific atmosphere.

"We raised an amazing amount of money.

"My biggest thanks must go to all the many helpers without whose valuable help it would not have been possible.

"The traders helped to make it a fantastic event with and I must also thank Tesco for their generous donation of 42 bottles of mulled wine and 250 mince pies and two tins of chocolates, which meant we did not have to buy any at all."

Rose added thanks to her husband Tony and daughter Louise for their help and to John Walland for help moving the tables and helping traders into the Boniface Centre.

Bob Edwards was also thanked for the loan of tables from the Old Town Hall.

Last year's event raised more than £800, which was divided between a number of local charities decided upon by the Slim4Life members.

Sponsors were: Kevin Coopers, Eakers DIY, Lords Meadow Leisure Centre, Lofters Hair and Beauty Salon and Barbers, Chefs Choice, Downes Crediton Golf Club, Sarah's Barbers, Digital Color Services, W F Chinn, Mid Devon Tyres, Boots, Rose Palmer, Val Barker, Tuckers Seed Merchants, Ivor Coram, J and L Cleaning, Ruby Red Beef, Adams Home Hardware, Crediton Pharmacy, Spinnakers Gallery, Crediton Country Courier, Becky Lund-Harkett, Mr and Mrs Powlesland, Cartoonz, Il Casita, Trawlers Catch, Peck and Strong, Three Pigs, Triple C Café, Fly Fishing Tackle, Bike Shed, Mr and Mrs Lee, Mrs J Keate, Crediton Café, Claire Masson, Four Seasons, Creedy Carver, M C Kelly, Lewis's, Town and Countrywear, Olivia James, Tomco, Milford and Son, Gee's, A E Lee Outfitters, Susan's, Winemasters, Crediton Pet Shop, Tagz, Be Be dazzeled, Andrew Books, Jo Bingham, Crediton Card Centre, Hospiscare, Olivers Bakery, Holly Valley Art, Attractions, Mary Trick Toys, Homestyle, Body Shop, Stevie B's, the Greenhouse, Jill Collier Sugarcraft, Mr Collier Woodcraft, Treloars Delicatessen, Sally Blake, Keith Hillman, Mole Avon, Well Being Centre, Cottage Fayre, Creative Furniture, Samantha Lachbery, Glitz and Bits, Adaero Precision Components, Ann Dryden, Elljay Creations, Cobley Farm and Lyn Piper.

Alan Quick