Fourteen handmade log-style cabin fronts adorned with artificial snow lined the main school hall filled with pupils and retailers selling locally-made festive treats and gifts.
Nearly 200m of shimmering fabric and over 450m 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 officially open the market and hear the last minute Christmas-wishes of many awestruck children, special guests included Pip the Shetland Pony who took up residence in Prep Playground for the duration of the market.
The festivities were kicked off with several heart-warming carols from the Prep School Choir led by their new musical director Dr Liz Dollins. The market also saw the debut of the school’s brand-new parent and staff choir who treated shoppers to a fabulous range of seasonal songs and really got everyone in the Christmas spirit.
Stalls run by pupils, parents and staff included a dazzling glitter make-up bar, snowball bowling and handmade wreaths to get front doors looking extra special this winter.
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 luxury natural skincare to stained glass ornaments and speciality Cornish coffee to locally grown Christmas trees.
Mary Hodgson, co-chair of the PTA said: “The PTA always pull out all the stops when it comes to the Christmas Market and this year everyone has truly outdone themselves. It’s been a real team effort and huge thanks go to all the dedicated parents who worked so hard making wreaths, wrapping presents, serving drinks, decorating stalls, baking cakes, carrying tables and so much more to make this magical event possible. We are also incredibly grateful to the pupils and teachers who ran stalls and a special mention must go to School Governor Sarah Hall who offered a huge amount of help especially when it came time to pack up.”
