63 stalls, 19 performances and one huge party showcasing all things great about Christchurch will hit two town-centre venues, Saxon Square and Druitt Gardens, on Saturday 29 May and everyone is invited to come along and join in the fun. The event is thought to be the biggest gathering of local groups seen in the town in recent years.
The celebrations will begin at 10 am with music in both venues followed by the official opening at 10.30am in Saxon Square by Mayor of Christchurch, Councillor Nick Geary with XChurch Factor winner Julie Petrie. Julie was amongst 18 nominees for the honour after a search for someone who has made a big contribution to the Christchurch community and was chosen by a panel of judges who were given only details of the feats of the nominees and not their names.
The Christchurch Community Celebration began in 2009 and revived the ancient Trinity Fair, one of the earliest recorded annual attractions held in the town which raised money for local causes centuries ago. Any money raised in 2010 will be donated to the New Druitt Hall appeal. Organiser, Nicki Burt, said: “The event is about the community getting together to celebrate the town we love and feel so proud to be part of; the town is blowing its own trumpet! The idea has been met with huge enthusiasm among individuals, groups and clubs in the area. The focus is to raise funds to contribute to the building of the new Druitt Community Centre. We are especially grateful for the commitment and participation of Christchurch Community Partnership, and their contribution to funding.” Stalls will cover arts and crafts, literary groups, heritage, the environment, charities, health, children, food and other groups. Entertainment will be provided by a range of music, song and dance by local organisations. All participants are from Christchurch. Full details are available on the website at: www.focuschristchurch.org
“We want an event with a party atmosphere, where individuals and groups can express what they are proud of as part of this community, see what each other are doing and have fun. To do this, they can join in, show off - or just be there to see stalls, participate in workshops, discussions and activities,” added Nicki.
