The Great Hall in Downpatrick’s Downshire Estate, opened its doors for the annual DisAbility HUB’s Christmas Craft Fayre marking the beginning of the festive season with creativity, community spirit and plenty of Christmas cheer.
Handmade Christmas cards, baubles, ornate paintings and handknitted scarfs were proudly displayed as the Team arranged their festive filled tables bursting with beautiful original crafts. The aroma of mince pies and shortbread, alongside cups of tea and coffee, created a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all who visited.
Special Olympics hero and Service User, Jackie Stewart, who has competed in the World Games playing golf, channelled her love for the sport into her artwork for this year’s Fayre.
Jackie said, “I am so happy to be a member of the Hub. All the members have worked really hard to make the crafts this year. I have made so many friends at the Hub and we all stick together. I love golf and I painted a pictured to capture that. Christmas really has started here and we, from the Hub, are going to be here every year!”
South Eastern Trust Chief Executive, Roisin Coulter praised the talent on show and the importance of celebrating the Hub’s achievements. Roisin stated, “I am delighted to attend this Craft Fayre and Christmas Coffee Morning and see our Service Users, staff and colleagues here together celebrating all this tremendous talent. It really is a lovely way to start the countdown to Christmas.”
South Eastern Trust Director of Primary Care and Older People, Veronica Cleland was delighted to browse the stalls and pick up some unique Christmas gifts. “I am absolutely delighted to be here this morning, it is wonderful. This is Christmas personified when you take a look around and see the work and the talent of what people have created.”
Veronica added, “What the Team have created here is spectacular, there are so many beautiful arts and crafts. Christmas is sorted for me. The level of creativity is just absolutely amazing.”
Cedar Foundation Service Manager for Inclusion Matters, Karen Maguire commented, “This is the fourth year the Christmas Fayre has been held at the Great Hall and there is a real buzz here today. It is the beginning of Christmas for sure.
“Each person and member of the Hub has their own set of skills whether that is painting or copper art. The skills on display are unbelievable. The Fayre is a great way to come together over a cup of tea, catch up and that is what today is all about.”