![Christmas Bazaar and Advent Carol Service]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1576078352/farnboroughhillorguk/lg0u8hd5wflkb4s83iey/starsweb.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1576078352/farnboroughhillorguk/lg0u8hd5wflkb4s83iey/starsweb.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1576078352/farnboroughhillorguk/lg0u8hd5wflkb4s83iey/starsweb.jpg","width":540}])
On the first Sunday of Advent the School opened its doors for a trio of gloriously Christmassy events – the House Charity Bazaar, Friends’ Christmas Market and Advent Carol Service.
The House Bazaar, overseen by Head of Roantree Colleen Swire, is a fundraising extravaganza where the Houses sell donations in aid of their charities.
Roantree’s bottle raffle was extremely popular, as always, as was Dutertre’s cuddly toy stand (for a different audience!) and Mostyn’s bric-a-brac stall. Bickford ran their usual raffle, offering a chance to win one of four hampers which were filled with donations from pupils, parents and staff. They also ran a Lucky Dip and sold Pamper Gifts. McCormack enticed visitors with their offerings of sweets, selling on average three bags per minute, as well as beautiful Christmas cards designed by Treloar’s students.
The House Bazaar raised almost £3000 for charity; thank you to everyone who contributed and bought items.
The Friends’ Christmas Market was packed with luxurious stalls featuring big brands and local handmade crafts. It was the perfect place to pick up a special, unique gift.
The festive afternoon ended with the beautiful Advent Service, during which the Senior Choir sang incredibly beautifully. Beginning in traditional fashion with the solo voice of Isabella singing Once in Royal, the service featured a number of musical favourites, including Holst’s magical setting of Let All Mortal Flesh – with the opening verse sung by Julia – and O Holy Night, with the soprano soloist Nathalie. Also included was Bob Chilcott’s jazz-inspired setting of William Blake’s The Lamb and an arrangement of the traditional Welsh lullaby Suo Gân, with solos from Shika, Clara and Kira, as well as a lyrical flute solo by Lucy.
The lighting effects were amazing and enhanced the Chapel’s stunning architecture. It was a service of reflection and joy as we look forward to the upcoming Christmas season.
Merry Christmas from all at Farnborough Hill!