Brecon town centre attracted thousands of residents and visitors to help celebrate the 3rd annual Brecon Christmas Fayre and the official switching on of the Christmas lights ceremony, last Saturday.
Undeterred by the cold and wet weather, crowds gathered outside St Mary’s Church to see Mayor of Brecon, Cllr Mrs Rosemary Evans welcome visitors before inviting local schoolgirl and winner of the Christmas poster competition, Tirion Harris switch on the Christmas lights. The event was hailed a huge success by its organisers who include Brecon Town Council, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority, the Brecon and Radnor Newspaper Group, Brecon Infantry Battleschool, Licenced Victuallers Association Powys County Council, and many other supporting local businesses.
The Fayre is thought to have attracted up to 5,000 visitors – including a group of foreign students, who were especially impressed by the delights of a Welsh Christmas Fayre and the drive for locally produced food and crafts.
Visitors and residents were treated to a schedule of entertainment including the renowned Aberhonddu Male Choir, local school choirs, Brecon Town Band, Welsh dancing and the West Enders Theatre Group and the My Fair Lady 10th Anniversary community group.
Local suppliers such as Caroline’s Bread, Celtic Spirit Company, Ralph’s Cider, Erwood Arts and Craft Station did a roaring trade as people clambered to purchase last minute Christmas presents and winter tummy warmers despite the dropping temperature and constant drizzle.
Chris Gledhill, Chief Executive for Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority said: “We are delighted to have been involved again in this year’s Brecon Christmas Fayre. I would particularly like to thank the Christmas Fayre Community Partnership Board and all the hard working volunteers who have come together to make this event so successful.
“People come back year after year to the Brecon Christmas Fayre, leaving many locals overwhelmed by how far people travelled to experience the delights of Brecon town centre.
“Christmas fairs and markets within the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park are always unique and this was a wonderful way to close the National Park’s 50th Anniversary year.”