FESTIVE spirit was in full swing at a Barnsley care home when the Mayor and Mayoress made a surprise appearance dressed as Mr and Mrs Claus.
The annual Christmas fayre at Deangate saw families, friends, staff and residents gather for an afternoon of festive fun.
Among the attractions was Santa’s grotto, where Mayor Councillor David Leech and Mayoress Alison Leech listened to Christmas wishes, handed out gifts, and posed for photos.
The event also featured residents’ craft stalls selling homemade wreaths, personalised baubles and Christmas cards – many of which sold out. There was also a raffle and tombola.
Entertainment included Christmas hymns performed by volunteers from Staincross Methodist Church before the Christmas tree light switch-on, organised in partnership with Friends of Mapplewell and Staincross.
Donations are still coming in, but the event is expected to raise more than £1,000 for the residents’ fund, which helps towards activities and outings for those living at Deangate Care Home.
Rachael Addy, the care home’s activities coordinator, said: “I’m blown away by the kindness and generosity of everyone who helped make this event such a success.
“The residents are our number one priority and days like these make lasting memories that can’t be taken away. They also enable us to raise funds for plan bigger and better activities.
“We have two big trips planned next year, so the money raised will help to fund these, and make them as special as we can for our residents.”