NAILSEA
PEOPLE
For this is Christmas 2024
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Christmas fair 5-8pm, Wednesday, November 27, with more than 30 stalls and Santa’s grotto - see more below
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Santa’s Saturday brunch, December 14, and Sunday lunch on December 15 ,including visit from Father Christmas and disco
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Christmas day lunch
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New Year’s Eve ball
For further information please visit https://www.cadburyhotelbristol.co.uk/christmas/ or call 01934 834343
The Yarr'd
call 01275 544812 or pop in to the Kingshill salon
Christmas at Tyntesfield
CHRISTMAS IS FOR GIVING:
Nailsea Foodbank is at Southfield Road church and has an emergency number on 0792 747 2649 which you can call/text/WhatsApp or email nailseafoodbank@gmail.com.
Nailsea Foodbank is a branch of Clevedon and District Foodbank (Charity No:1154997), and is part of the Trussell network.
Bring donations along during opening hours 12.30-2.30pm on Fridays, or to the Sunday morning service.
Donations can also be dropped in the collection bin at the end of the checkouts in Waitrose. For more information go online at clevedondistrict.foodbank.org.uk.
Nailsea Community Group run a free food service from its base at 26 Somerset Square.
This isn't just for Christmas but operates all year round.
This community group supports more than 20 households on a weekly basis as well as a further 25 households who are part of the food club, and over 240 children every school holiday who receive free school meals.
In the run up to Christmas its donations boxes are really low and they really need your help to fill them.
There are drop off points at Waitrose, Tesco and Iceland supermarkets all clearly labelled Nailsea Community Group.
Alternatively they are open Monday to Saturday 10am-12.30pm next door to WH Smith if you would prefer to drop donations off.
Do you run a local business, group, or work in an office that could perhaps do a collection for this foodbank?
Or perhaps you can help in other ways?
If you would like to donate financially that’s great too as we can purchase what we need, said Shelley Forbes who is organizing this fundraiser.
Go to https://gofund.me/e49b5b87
Nailsea Community Group Christmas fundraising plea
LITTLE LOUNGERS: An invite to pop down to Livro Lounge at Somerset Square any afternoon between 3-5pm and pen a letter to Santa Claus. This holiday season is the perfect time to share your wishes and dreams and writing a letter to Santa is fun and magical way to let him know what you've been hoping for
Book early for Christmas & New Year
Christmas trees
Christmas fundraising for good causes
Meet Father Christmas or send a letter...
Christmas food & drink
Christmas is for giving goodwill to all including food, shelter & festive teas
Christmas concerts, carols & church events
For the past few years St Quiricus and St Julietta church on The Causeway at Tickenham has invited village organisations and residents to show their talents by putting together a display based on a Christmas theme.
Previous years have shown some really imaginative and colourful exhibits based on Christmas carols and pantomimes.
This year it will be all about fairy tales.
There is a wide range to chose from.
The church will be open noon-3pm every Saturday and Sunday in December. Admission free and everyone is welcome.
There will be a candlelit preview evening on Saturday, November 30, from 6-8pm. Admission £5, which includes a glass of prosecco. Children free.
Fairy tale theme
Christmas markets, fairs & festivals
FESTIVE FOOD: The Moorend Spout, at Kingshill, Nailsea, invites customers to join them this Christmas for an unforgettable Christmas dinner and be a part of the Moorend Spout family this year. Let us do all the hard work call or email in to enquire about a table or for menus and bookings go to https://www.themoorendspout.co.uk/event/christmas/
t
Ring O'Bells
pop in to book
The region’s leading four-star hotel has put in place what it has described as its biggest ever Christmas calendar that will make the 2024 festivities feel like one giant party.
Popular with families, friends and businesses alike looking to celebrate Christmas in style, the historic North Somerset house has provided, for many years, the perfect backdrop for revellers wanting somewhere special to enjoy a festive feast or party night out.
This year’s programme includes a range of events which will appeal to all age groups from little ones excited to meet Father Christmas to those who enjoy live music or are looking for the perfect Christmas gift.
Matilda Burgess, marketing manager at Cadbury House said: “This is by far the biggest Christmas programme we’ve put together here at Cadbury House.
"We’ve made sure there is something for everyone so that no matter what age, you can rest assured you’ll have a fabulous time.
“For parents and their children, the Santa brunch and lunch are ideal as there’ll be a visit from Father Christmas while at the Christmas Fayre there’ll be a Santa’s Grotto.
“Those who fancy something a bit more interactive will like the festive murder mystery night while the live band and DJ and disco dates are perfect for business parties or larger groups of friends.
“Whatever you’re looking for we’ve definitely got it covered.”
The Cadbury House Christmas programme includes:
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Christmas murder mystery Wednesday, December 11
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Live band nights, various dates throughout November and December
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DJ and disco nights, various dates throughout November and December
Nailsea places for a merry Christmas
A night of festive murder mystery is returning to one of the region’s most atmospheric venues which has become renowned for its period whodunnits!
On the night, wannabe Hercules Poirots will be stretched to work out who the fiendish offender is while enjoying a festive three-course meal during a night of mischievous misdemeanours.
Taking place at Cadbury House in Congresbury on Wednesday, December 11, tickets include a three-course Christmas meal, disco night and coffee & mince pies to end the night.
The setting for this particular night of dastardly deeds is the case of Santa’s ‘Claws’!
It’s Christmas 1937 and Mr Uffton-Harlecombe, has just left a meeting of his business associates. There was very little Christmas cheer at that meeting.
In fact, as he pulled his thick coat around him to shield him from the silently falling snow, he smiled to himself, there were more than a few people in that room who now knew that crossing him was not a smart career move.
Still inwardly laughing to himself he crossed the road and began to walk back down the side street to his motor car.
Everywhere was silent. He stopped in a doorway to light a cigarette. Perhaps for a fleeting second he may have seen the white bearded face, the crimson costume, perhaps he even saw the weapon.
Uffton-Harlecombe had misjudged the meeting tonight, the information he had spilled out to the assembled people had been taken far more to heart than he could ever had imagined.
One person was going to make this a Christmas everyone would want to forget!
Matilda Burgess, marketing manager believes those who come along will be in for a fantastic night of detective work, while enjoying the ambience and atmosphere of the 19th century Cadbury House.
Matilda said: “The murder mystery nights are one of our most popular events and everyone who comes along really gets into the spirit of the occasion.
“With its gothic gables the old house really does provide the perfect backdrop
Whodunnit - was it Santa?
and adds to the overall experience while the characters involved in the evening only add to the authenticity and drama of the evening as it unfolds!”
Tickets cost £60 per person and includes a three-course dinner with coffee and tea plus entertainment until midnight.
The bar opens from 6.30pm, with guests seated at 7.30pm.
Fancy dress is encouraged for this event but not necessary.
For further information go to https://www.cadburyhotelbristol.co.uk/events/christmas-murder-mystery-disco-joiner-party/ or call 01934 834 343.
PHOTO: A still from Who Killed Santa?
A Murderville Murder Mystery Image via Netflix
A special Christmas fair is at a leading four-star hotel which will not only provide visitors the chance to get into the Christmas spirit, but allow them to pick up some locally made gifts.
At Cadbury House on Wednesday, November 27, the fair, which has free entry, will include more than 30 local artisan stalls all bringing their bespoke gifts, goodies and food.
Exhibitors include silver jewellery, handmade resin art, homemade candles, bags, Christmas decorations and cards, homemade glass décor, beaded jewellery, personalised cushions, crochet bags, homemade chilli jams, chutneys, pickles and hot sauces, Christmas cakes, cupcakes, homemade fudge and personalised crafts and trinkets.
Starting at 5pm and finishing at 8pm the fait will also have a visit from Father Christmas making the event even more magical. It follows a similar event which took place last year and was a huge success.
Matilda Burgess, marketing manager at Cadbury House said: “Our Christmas fair is just one of the many events we’ve got organised to celebrate the festivities.
“Last year was really popular so we’re hoping local people will come along and support all those who will be selling their gifts and goodies.
"For Cadbury House as a business, it’s also important that we provide these local businesses an environment where they can sell their goods to local people.
“We will also be selling hot dogs, real hot chocolate, mulled wine and mince pies on the evening and Father Christmas will be visiting between 5-7pm.”
The fair forms part of what Cadbury House has described as its biggest ever Christmas calendar that will make the 2024 festivities feel like one giant party.
Popular with families, friends and businesses alike looking to celebrate Christmas in style, the historic North Somerset house has provided, for many years, the
perfect backdrop for revellers wanting somewhere special to enjoy a festive feast or party night out.
Matilda added: “This year’s Christmas programme includes a range of events which will appeal to all age groups from little ones excited to meet Father Christmas to those who enjoy live music or are looking for the perfect Christmas gift.”
For further information please visit Christmas party venue Somerset - DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol South - Cadbury House Limited space is still available to exhibit. For further information please contact christmas@cadburyhouse.com
Nearby places for a merry Christmas
MUSIC MAESTO: The North Somerset Philharmonia presents a concert of well-known classics and festive music on Saturday, December 14, at the auditorium, Nailsea School, with a performance of the Vaughan Williams Fantasia on Greensleeves, Haydn’s Symphony No. 103 Drumroll, Hely-Hutchinson’s Carol Symphony and other yuletide favourites with conductor Ben England and orchastra leader Ali White. Tickets available on the door, from Nailsea Music Shop and on its website, www.nsphilharmonia.org.uk. Adults £15, concessions £12, under 18s £6. There will be a retiring collection in support of the Motor Neurone Disease Association
New year parties
Christmas pantos
ROLL UP, ROLL UP: See panto join the circus, and be swept away by a pantomime spectacular that’s just right! For four weeks only, join comedian, TV and musical theatre star Brian Conley as the Hippodrome is transformed into a sensational circus, where everything is possible, and anything could (and will) happen! Goldilocks and the Three Bears is at Bristol Hippodrome from Saturday to Sunday, December 7-January 5. Review HERE. Tickets from £13.00 subject to a transaction fee of £3.95 here https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/goldilocks-and-the-three-bears/bristol-hippodrome//
BEAUTIFUL AND BEASTLY: Beauty and the Beast playing The Playhouse at Weston-super-Mare from Saturday to Tuesday, December 7-31. Starring Melanie Walters (Gavin & Stacey as Stacey's mum), Derek Moran (Milkshake! TV) and Michael Goble (Ministry of Science Live),Ticket sales are going well for this popular local theatre house. Pictured in costumes at rehearsal. Tickets from £25 https://www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/playhouse-theatre/whats-on/beauty-and-the-beast
New Year's Eve celebration at The Moorend Spout!
Join us as we bid farewell to 2024 and welcome 2025 with a bang!
We're hosting a spectacular New Year's Eve party at The Moorend Spout, and you're invited!
Here's what we have in store for you:
Dance the night away with our DJ, who will be spinning tunes until late.
Enjoy a sumptuous 3-course set menu for just £38.95.
This is going to be a night that the people of Nailsea will never forget!
So, don your party hats, bring your friends, and let's ring in the New Year together!
Book your spot now at www.themoorendspout.co.uk.
Hurry, as seats are limited!
Perhaps our superstar Mollie Pearce may like to take a spin here in Weston-super-Mare before she takes part in the Dancing on Ice television show in the new year?
This huge covered outdoor ice rink is set to return to Weston-super-Mare again this winter, following an agreement reached between North Somerset Council and Icescape.
The Tropicana will host Icescape from Friday to Sunday, November 1-January 5.
Up to 400 skaters can take to the ice in each 45-minute skate session, and there’s a variety of skate sessions for everyone to enjoy.
These include the popular parent toddler, quiet, disco and skate & donate sessions.
Other activities will also be running, including festive food and drink stalls.
Approximately 80,000 visitors enjoyed the attraction last year.
An exciting planning application is due to be submitted this month to restore the Tropicana as a popular attraction/event space.
For more information, visit www.icescapetropicana.com.
Image courtesy of Icescape Tropicana
Opportunity to dance on ice in Weston
what can it be - we'll just
have to wait and see...
FESTIVE FOLK: On Friday, December 20, at 7.30pm Nailsea Folk Club present contemporary folk artists Jackie Oates and John Spiers at the Tithe Barn. Online tickets £16 https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/nailsea-folk-club. Multi award-winning contemporary folk artists Jackie Oates and John Spiers meld together their shared love of English traditional folk tunes and songs with their fine voices and expertly played acoustic instruments. Audiences can look forward to a heart-warming evening celebrating the traditions of Christmas.‘Oates & Spiers left the gaudy, commercialised crass-ness at home ... theirs is a Christmas for all’. Their festive concerts are a beautiful and heart-warming antidote to the materiality that can be a feature of the Christmas season. The duo perform captivating traditional Christmas carols and tunes from England and beyond.
North Somerset Council is once again working with three local charities to help people in North Somerset recycle and repurpose their real Christmas tree.
Now in its fifth year, the council’s successful Christmas ‘tree-cycling’ scheme has so far achieved:
£120,000 has been raised for local charities
15,000 trees have been repurposed and recycled
over 200 tonnes of carbon emissions saved.
People in North Somerset and surrounding areas can either take their tree to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxall, or arrange for their tree to be collected from their home by St Peter’s Hospice or Weston Hospicecare in return for a donation.
All trees must have decorations and the pot removed.
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm will be accepting trees between Thursday and Sunday, January 2-26. Trees should be left at the collection point in the main car park during zoo opening times of 10.30am to 4pm. Donated trees will either be chipped or used whole for animal enrichment within their habitat.
St Peter’s Hospice, who have their fundraising headquarters in Long Ashton, will collect trees on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, January 10-12 from selected postcodes across North Somerset including Backwell, Clevedon, Nailsea, Pill, Portishead, plus many areas of Bristol. Trees will be chipped and used for mulch across allotments and at Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm, or used in the biomass boiler at Blaise Plant Nursery. Tree collection must be prebooked online at www.stpetershospice.org/treecollection.
Weston Hospicecare’s Pines for Pounds will collect trees on Saturday, January 11, in the BS22, BS23, BS24, BS25, BS26, BS27, BS29, BS40, BS49, TA8 and TA9 postcode areas. Trees are taken by the charity volunteers to Weston household waste and recycling centre to be recycled with household garden waste, or used for other repurposing projects. Prebook online at www.westonhospicecare.org.uk/pinesforpounds.
North Somerset Council executive member for climate, waste and sustainability Annemieke Waite is the Green ward councillor for Wrington.
She said: "I’m delighted North Somerset Council is once again supporting these local Christmas tree recycling schemes.
Tree collection service to help charity
Christians Together in Nailsea & Tickenham church services are published in the Nailsea Paper and online HERE
SLEIGH OR TRACTOR: Don't miss out this Christmas. Meet Santa at Noah's Ark Zoo Farm for just £7 pus day admission - tickets are selling faster than a sleigh pulled by reindeer! Read all its latest news on our page HERE including exciting Project Carnivora
UPDATE: Photos in our galleries (four slideshows) HERE
CHRISTMAS CRUZ: The Vee Dub Christmas Cruz 2024 on Saturday, December 14, starts in Nailsea. It is dedicated to the memory of Phoebe Pring, the daughter of Jessica and Josh, two of our club members, Sadly the little girl, aged seven, passed away earlier this year. 150 festive VWs will be out on the roads of Nailsea, Clevedon & Portishead to raise money for The Grand Appeal, official charity of the Bristol Children's Hospital. To donate go to https://www.justgiving.com/page/xmasdubs2024. The route starts from the Towerhouse car park and tours Trendlewood coining on to Clevedon where the vehicles regroup at the Hither Green industrial estate behind Aldi finishing at The Lake Grounds, Portishead. The team will be at the car park in Nailsea from 3.30pm heading out at 5pm sharp. Vehicles must be checked in at the start area by .45pm to arrive at Portishead at approximately 6.15pm.
shopping list to come
This December, Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is spreading festive cheer with a special promotion: guests aged 70 and over can enjoy free admission throughout the entire month!
From Sunday to Tuesday, December 1-31, the zoo invites these visitors to experience a memorable day out, filled with wildlife, festive activities, and family fun.
The initiative, now in its fifth consecutive year, was inspired by Age UK’s campaign to combat loneliness during the Christmas season.
According to the charity, almost 1.5 million older people feel lonelier at Christmas than at any other time of the year.
By inviting over 70s to visit for free, Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm hopes to foster connection and joy during this special time.
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm CEO Larry Bush said: “We believe in creating opportunities for everyone to connect—with nature, with each other, and with festive fun. This December, we’re thrilled to continue to offer free admission to our guests aged over 70, providing a space for families to come together and make lasting memories.
"Whether it’s exploring our habitats or sharing a story with Santa, we hope to make this season brighter for everyone.”
This year, the zoo is emphasising the importance literacy and is encouraging grandparents to bring their grandchildren along for a festive adventure.
Storytime sessions with Santa on weekends highlight the importance of reading while offering joyful moments for visitors of all ages, and those wrapped up warm can embark on a Christmas trail around the zoo.
With its stunning winter landscapes, fascinating animals, and heartwarming events, Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm promises a day out that’s both entertaining and enriching. So, whether you're reconnecting with loved ones or sharing the magic of wildlife with younger generations, the zoo is the perfect destination this festive season.
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Free aged 70+ December zoo pass
Nailsea Festive Farmers' Market is on Saturday, December 21, 9am-1pm.
This the last High Street of 2024 and the next one isn't until February.
Come and celebrate local food & drink, crafts and community.
Organiser Louise Hall, of Somerset Farmers Markets, said: "We work hard to create a special event each month, however Christmas gives us the excuse to add a little extra sparkle and this will also be reflected on each and every one of our stalls we even have hand-knitted Christmas decorations.
"We are thrilled to be again joined by the Salvation Army Band who play a range of traditional carols and Christmas music creating a wonderful atmospheric back drop for the market at the top end of the High Street.
"At the Waitrose end of the High Street local legend Dennis Demille will be performing a medley of more modern Christmas songs guaranteed to get your feet tapping.
"We also have on good authority that Father Christmas has us booked in for a special visit to Nailsea before he heads off to load up his sleigh.
"Come early for the most choice and for bigger items you may wish to pre-order ,all of the producers contact details can be found on our website www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk
"Finally we wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful 2025 .
"Huge thanks to you our customers who turn out each month whatever the weather and show your support for our local farmers and other producers- you are what enables this special market to continue growing.
"The market will kick off again on Saturday, February 15, and it's set to get even bigger."
DECEMBER 2024 STALLS
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Ambrose Farm free range chickens plus duck and quail eggs and homemade biltong
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Baker in a Beanie artisan baker using heritage organic grains to produce healthy loaves and soda breads
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Barleywood Kitchen Garden organically grown salads and vegetables from Mark in Wrington using the no-dig method
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Bath Soft Cheese award winning farmhouse cheeses including Bath Blue plus fresh milk
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Bee Sweet chocolate Truffle Fudge bars with a range of toppings
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Bloomfield Botanicals medicinal elderberry tinctures, cordials and fire ciders
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Cheddar Spirit Company small batch gins, vodkas and liqueurs
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Chester's Kitchen all natural air dried meat treats for dogs made from local meat
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Chilli Club Co a range of chilli sauces perfect stocking fillers
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DeMille's Botanicals plant based soaps plus CBD infused items and a doggie range
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Glastonbury Ferments award winning fermented foods including kimchi, Kombucha and sauerkraut
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Go Wild Preserves traditionally made preserves with a contemporary twist
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Janes Flower Pots perfect Christmas gift a seasonal hanging basket to bring colour through the winter
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Katherines Free Range Eggs locally family farmers bringing your the freshest eggs from happy hens
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Nailsea Cider traditionally made cider using fruit from local orchards and back gardens
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Nailsea Country Markets local cooperative of bakers and preserves makers
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Nutt's Scotch Eggs award winning range of Scotch Eggs and pies
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Oven to You pastry chef specialising in sweet tarts of all flavours - come early for the full range Paul has a huge fan base
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Plants by Ogie Placido - back in March
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Real Pork saddleback cross rare breed outdoor reared pigs providing a range of cuts plus hams, gammons, black pudding, faggots, sausages and burgers
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Robert Hawker fresh venison from sustainably managed estates shot and butchered by Robert himself
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Salsa Stories Tex Mex style dips and salsa plus savoury dishes on the day including loaded nachos and chimi changas
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Seafoods award winning fishmonger with over 50 years experience
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Somerset Charcuterie continental style dried meats with a Somerset twist and local ingredients
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Somerset Cheese Company Anita makes her award-winning cheeses from locally sourced milk from cows, goats, sheep & buffalo
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Somerset Cup of Coffee grab a hot cup of locally ground coffee from Tony the barista from the back of his converted van
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Somerset Cup of Tea unique blends of beautifully packaged teas - great gifts
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Somerset Orchard Garden - back in March
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Sunbird Kitchen Fiona makes granola and overnight oats to improve your breakfasts
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The Great Cake Company gluten free baked goods including cakes, tray bakes, friands, quiches and scones plus dairy free options
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The Incredible Brewing Company Bristol based micro-brewery with a range of award winning beers
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The Macaroom husband and wife team of talented pâtissiers and chocolatiers with an exquisite range of macarons ,eclairs ,tarts and chocolates -perfect for Christmas treats
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The Sausage Shed award winning sausage maker using local welfare friendly meat
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Times Past Cheese come early for the full range of flavoured cheddars - perfect for your Boxing day cheese board
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Timmy's Chillies fruit packed jellies and marmalades with a chilli kick - lots of flavours -perfect gifts
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Wesley Cottage Bees master beekeeper Lyn Ingram brings along this seasons honey and related products plus lots of beekeeping chat
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Whitegate Apple Juice plus pear juice, cider and apple cider vinegar
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Whites of Wick home bred and forage fed Aberdeen Angus Bee
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Winnies Bakery come early to get the best choice of loaves, croissants, Danish pastries and lardy cake and more
CRAFTPEOPLE
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Bristol Woodturning Colin makes useful and ornamental items on his lathe
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Clevedon Bag Company huge range of handmade textile items using quality cottons
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Colour Me Designs colourful jewellery items designed and hand made by Michelle in her Claverham studio
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Dragon Fly Jewellery fused glass art and silver jewellery
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Grandmas Knitting handknitted baby wear and children's hats plus tea cosies and hot water bottle covers and more
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Granny Bear Crafts handmade cotton baby and children's clothes
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Needle & Nail bespoke upholstery and soft furnishings including cushions and lampshades
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Industrial Modern Design John crafts sustainable furniture and art using locally sourced wood, and ceramic and steel
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Yeti Cards talented illustrator using her designs on useful household items such as mugs, tea towels and more
COMMUNITY/GUEST STALLS
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Nailsea Knitters Christmas themed knitted decorations
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Nailsea Musical Theatre Group find out about their upcoming production of Matilda
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Nailsea Town Council at Number 65 offering an opportunity to talk to your local councillor(s)
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Nowhere Fundraisers local cancer charity raising much needed funds
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Willow Chiropractors a free spinal check and find out how this Nailsea chiropractor can help you
For more information about the market visit www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk
"As well as raising a fantastic amount of money for local charities, the schemes ensure thousands of trees do not go to waste and can instead be repurposed and used again as a valuable resource.
“Thank you to all our partners who help us make the Christmas tree recycling schemes happen, particularly our street cleansing contractor Glendale Services who are once again donating their time and resource to help with the chipping.
”Christmas trees can also be taken to one of the three household waste and recycling centres in North Somerset where they can be recycled with the garden waste.
"Check the council’s website for advice, location details and opening times www.n-somerset.gov.uk/recyclingcentres.
"Residents signed up to the garden waste collection service can put their trees out for collection when the service resumes from Monday, January 13.
"Trees can either be chopped up and put in green garden waste bins or left whole alongside. They must be shorter than two metres in length and have the pot and all decorations removed."
Grove Sports Centre & Social Club
Christmas & New Year opening hours
Quality Collectables Nailsea
Grove Sports Centre & Social Club
