The Christmas Fair at Ballakermeen High School on December 2nd will be very different this year. Instead of relying on parents to sell bric-a-brac and books, the school has widened the appeal of the event by opening it up to commercial concerns. Stalls have been snapped up by more than twenty local companies to provide a terrific range of goods and services, and all available slots in the main hall have now been taken. Organiser Paul Crilly said: ‘There’s so much on offer this year – I hope people realise before they come just what a huge variety there is to choose from, and make sure they bring enough cash!’ As well as the traditional Santa’s Grotto, visitors will find cakes, puddings, craft items, photographs, soaps, candles, baby items, bags, hats, scarves, decorations, jewellery, hot Indian food, quilting, bespoke cup cakes, face-painting and cultural gifts – and that’s just in the main hall. The most popular items in recent years have been the Christmas hampers, each one created by a different tutor group, which offer the chance of a real bargain. They will be back this time, bigger and better than ever. As usual it will be first come, first served, so prompt arrival is recommended. The fair is in the school dining hall on Friday 2nd December at 6.00 pm, and everyone is welcome. ENDS