Fourteen handmade log-style cabin fronts lined the main school hall filled with pupils and retailers selling locally-made festive treats and gifts.
2000 baubles and over 150m of fairy lights strung from the ceiling added to the spectacle whilst a snow machine completed the school’s metamorphosis into an enchanting winter scene.
Santa’s Grotto also received a miraculous makeover and was transformed into an alpine cabin complete with cosy blankets and a glowing log fire. His chair was a school antique donated by former pupils which is usually situated in the school’s historic entrance way.
Alongside Father Christmas, who dropped in to hear the last minute Christmas-wishes of many awestruck children, special guests included donkeys named Joseph and Jacob who took up residence for the duration of the market.
The festivities were kicked off with several heart-warming carols from the Prep School Choir.
Stalls run by staff and pupils included a dazzling festive face-painting bar, snowball bowling and reindeer food for children to leave out on Christmas Eve.
There were also many highly desirable luxury retailers for those on the hunt for Christmas presents. Shoppers had the chance to buy a whole host of exciting goodies ranging from the latest designer collections to stained glass ornaments and Emma Bridgewater pottery to festive hampers.
Mary Hodgson, Chair of the PTA said: “It’s been quite a challenge for the PTA to top the magic of last year’s market but everyone has pulled out all the stops and the results are utterly spectacular. It’s been a real team effort and huge thanks go to everyone who’s been involved, especially the hardworking and dedicated team of mums who have given up so much of their time to transform the school into a winter wonderland.”
