by Alan Quick

SANDFORD Spirits branch of the Women’s Institute held a Christmas Fayre at Sandford Parish Hall, which was very well attended.

Members of the branch had been lovingly making hand-made Christmas Fayre for several weeks prior to the event.

Christmas music and a toddy of mulled wine welcomed those who went along.

The hand-made items included distinctive wreaths and table decorations, many pre-ordered.

Unusual hand-made decorations adorned a tree. There were potted bulbs and other delightful craft items for sale.

Christmas cakes had been made to order in October and had been maturing and fed with brandy for the past two months. These too were much admired.

As one would expect there were jams, mincemeat and chutneys a-plenty together with home-made sweets.

A stall was piled high with mystery gift bags and there were last minute gifts at various prices to suit every purse.

A stall selling presents for a cat or dog sold out within 40 minutes of opening!

Shopping with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie, what could be better? There was a stupendous raffle with a large hamper being the first prize and champagne being the second.

People were then entertained by children from Sandford School singing songs and carols, and the Sandford Handbell Ringers performed a medley of carols.

The WI branch president, Pat Yeo, explained that this event was the culmination of work by various groups in which almost everyone had taken part.

Pat remarked that although it had been hard work it had all been worthwhile as many new friendships had been formed and many new skills learned by members.

She said this embodied the philosophy of what Sandford Spirits WI was all about.

Sandford Spirits meets every second Tuesday at 7.30pm the Rose and Crown in Sandford and new members and visitors are always ensured of a warm welcome.

Pat added that the next meeting will be held on January 12, when Charlie Werner is giving a talk on Sandford Community Shop, and there will also be a chance to have some fun and practise some glamorous ways to tie your scarf.