CHRISTMAS ANTIQUE FAIR – FIND THAT PERFECT PRESENT

An historic new venture will offer local people the chance to find the perfect gift for their loved ones this Christmas. South Molton’s Pannier Market will be hosting its very first Antique Market on Sunday 30^th November, with the focus on unusual and unique festive gifts.

The event, which will also raise funds for North Devon Hospice, is the brainchild of Michael Buckingham. He said:
“Although I come from South Molton I’ve not lived here until a year ago. I was struck by how underutilised the Pannier Market was and was determined to change that. This wonderful, historic building is the heart of the town. I thought it would be a great opportunity to combine my love of antiques and build on the work of others to provide a regular Sunday destination for people throughout the West Country. With free parking on Sundays, South Molton is the perfect place to visit in all weathers and this Christmas Market will provide people with a host of options for finding that perfect gift.”

Michael added:
“We’ve had a really great response from lots of reputable antique dealers who are keen to support us in this venture. There will be a range of sellers offering everything including antique furniture, fine art, ceramics, jewellery, silver and fabrics. Most importantly, there will be prices to suit every pocket, so we hope to see lots of people come along and find a really unique gift that you would simply not find on the high street. Mark Parkhouse, a renowned jewellery and antiques expert, will be on hand throughout the day to provide jewellery valuations. So please feel free to bring items along as well.”

The event will help raise money for North Devon Hospice, who are celebrating their 30^th anniversary this year. Michael Buckingham said that it was an important charity to support.
“We are conscious of our social responsibility and it is wonderful to be working in support of North Devon Hospice. The care they provide is absolutely vital to so many local people, and we never know when someone we love might need the same support.”

Stephen Roberts, Chief Executive of North Devon Hospice, said:
“This is going to be a really special event. It is always hard to come up with original gift ideas around Christmas, so having an Antique Market set up with that specifically in mind is a great idea. I hope people will come along not only to pick up an amazing gift or two, but also to show their support for the work of the hospice. We care for local people affected by cancer and other life-limiting illnesses, but this is only possible thanks to the support of the local community through events like this.”

Sharon Webber, South Molton Tourist Information Centre Manager said:
“The Pannier Market is the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ of South Molton and it is great to see it being used in this way. I was pleased to see that this is not to be just a one off event, as Michael will be organising other markets throughout 2015. Watch our events page for further details.”

Entry is free to the inaugural Antique Market on Sunday 30^th November at South Molton Pannier Market, with collections in aid of North Devon Hospice and lucky programmes supported by local businesses for sale. Organisers are still looking for sellers to take a table at the event, so please contact Michael Buckingham on Michael@pannierantiques.com. The Antique Market will be open from 10.00am to 4.00pm.