Thanks to everyone who visited and contributed to the huge success of Otford’s inaugural Christmas Fayre & Markets! We welcomed thousands of visitors who enjoyed a rain-free day of shopping, entertainment, eating and drinking in a High Street closed off to traffic but open to the early festive spirit.
Entertainment and activity occurred across the village. Our singers Pete Gardiner & Miss Vintage provided their sweet melodies on the High Street. The Scouts oversaw ‘hawk throwing’ on the memorial grounds. ‘Silly Billy’ entertained a packed hall of children and parents. A street magician mingled with and mesmerised the crowds and if that wasn’t enough, the Merry Mondays Ukulele band played a selection of Christmas crackers throughout the afternoon. And over sixty children visited Santa in his magical grotto inside the Tudor tower of Otford Palace. Everybody contributed to a wonderful atmosphere!
We are blessed with a vibrant village community, which in tough times can make all the difference. A huge thank you is in order to all members of the Otford Society, the scouts & volunteers that manned the streets. We especially wish to say a big thank you to Patty Chatterjee who oversaw all of the event planning, Jenny Kelly who organised the craft markets, Tash Logsdon who created the wonderful Grotto at the Palace, Claire and Mat Henry, Mrs Claus, and the team of young elves who welcomed children there all day long; and of course all of our local sponsors & shops who stepped up and contributed to a special day. Given the great turnout and positive feedback we’re already planning a similar event for 2023. Have a happy Christmas!
