MORE than 9,000 people prepared for the festive season by supporting local businesses at the New Forest Marque Christmas Fair.
The event brought together more than 100 stalls of local crafts and produce and featured a visit from Santa, carols from a brass band and the chance to buy a Christmas tree in the heart of the National Park.
Stallholders at the event, hosted by the New Forest Show Society at New Park, reported excellent trading, with some having to go back to base to re-stock.
New Forest Marque manager Sarah Hunt said: “The range of products was fantastic with everything from delicious local cheeses, to woodland crafts, handmade chocolate and organic dog treats. There was a lovely atmosphere and it's great that so many people turned out to support our local businesses. We hope next year's Fair will be even better.”
The New Forest Marque is a quality assurance scheme supported by the National Park Authority. It promotes authentic high-quality New Forest fare and encourages people to shop locally.
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