THE generous organisers of a festive bazaar showed the spirit of giving by raising hundreds of pounds for charity.

The East Bergholt Christmas Bazaar was held at Constable Hall.

Visitors flooded the hall to visit Santa’s grotto, enjoy children’s crafts and sample a range of exciting stalls selling presents.

Traders sold a range of festive-themed items including jewellery, candles, mince pies and mulled wine.

The event was held in aid of St Helena Hospice.

It was originally conceived by Alice Randell, a student paramedic who earlier this year organised a successful fundraiser in Brantham for Essex Air Ambulance.

But friend Hatty Price took over organising the event when Alice was taken ill.

She said the bazaar was so successful, it would likely become an annual fundraiser .

“It went really well, we certainly had lots of people come through the door which was great,” she said.

“Alice is pleased it went well but obviously sad she couldn’t be there.

“All the stall holders had a successful day too, they really enjoyed it.”

She added: “While we haven’t counted up all the money, we raised around £400 which we are really pleased with.

"It was so successful this will likely be an annual event now - we will be back next year."