Over 2,000 shoppers poured into Reaseheath College in Nantwich on Saturday, eager to buy original gifts made by local designers and craftspeople.
The Christmas Artisan Market showcased products from over 50 South Cheshire members of Etsy, the online community which enables crafters and designers to sell their handmade or vintage goods.
Held in Reaseheath’s Centre for Horticulture, the Environment and Sustainable Technology, the market attracted double the number of visitors compared to last year’s inaugural event. It was organised with the help of the college’s event management students and coincided with Small Business Saturday, a national day celebrating independent entrepreneurs.
MP for Eddisbury Antoinette Sandbach, who officially opened the event, said: “This has been a great opportunity for local small businesses to showcase what they produce, and for visitors to appreciate and buy the work of local craftspeople. It has also provided Reaseheath’s students with valuable experience of working with clients and the public.
The college’s mini zoo, complete with Father Christmas and his elves, was also open for the weekend, giving families the opportunity to enjoy two festive events. The zoo’s grotto is open for the next two weekends and the varied animal collection will be on show. See www.reaseheath.ac.uk/zoo
