Festive feel flows through Chelsworth Christmas Fair at newly-refurbished village church

A festive atmosphere flowed throughout a newly-renovated village church at the weekend, as it hosted its first major public event since the refurbishments were completed.

Around 300 visitors attended Chelsworth Christmas Fair at All Saints’ Church on Saturday, which returned after a year’s hiatus caused by the Covid-19 lockdown.

A wide variety of stallholders offered ideas for Christmas gifts, such as books, artwork and crafts, as well as homemade food items like cakes, jams and chutneys.

The event helped to mark the completion of a two-year programme of renovations at the 14th century church, including a new kitchen and toilet facilities and improved lighting and heating systems.

Music was also performed throughout the day on the church organ, which has been rebuilt and relocated to a new raised gallery.

Organiser Sheila Harvey told the Free Press: “We have got this wonderful oak gallery, which looks really attractive, and we were able to hear the newly-renovated organ, which added to the atmosphere.

“The fair went very well indeed. We were very pleased, particularly with the attendance, because you can never be sure during Covid times.

“Lots of our stallholders have said they had a great day. Everybody who came along said how beautiful the building looks.”

Sheila added that there are plans to use the church for summer events next year, including Chelsworth Open Gardens, and that community groups are welcome to use the space for hire.