Cork community urges people to ‘shop locally for Christmas’ 

THE community in Glounthaune is encouraging Corkonians to shop locally this Christmas through a special event with a focus on sustainability.

Glounthaune Village Community Centre will play host to a Christmas fair taking place on Saturday, December 2, between 11am and 5pm.

Now in its third year, the annual mini-craft fair is aimed at craft enthusiasts and will include everything from candles to jams and Christmas decorations. A photo station will also be set up, especially for the craft fair.

The event will include a raffle to raise vital funds for charity.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will be split between Glounthaune Community Association for the upkeep of the community hall and St Vincent De Paul.

A number of local businesses have already got on board for the event, including Nom Nom Café, Fitzpatricks Shop, and Balance Café, whose products will all be available at a designated charity cake stall.

Musicians from Sonatina Music Academy and other local choirs will provide festive entertainment on the day.

Visitors are being encouraged to walk to the venue and avail of public transport due to limited parking in the area.

Kate Cuddy is encouraging people to attend the event in support of local producers.

“We really wanted to promote the idea of shopping locally and more sustainably this Christmas,” said Ms Cuddy. “There are so many talented craftspeople in our community, who are struggling in this climate to find an outlet for their work.

“So let’s reduce our carbon footprint by giving the multinational online and high-street vendors and their delivery drivers a break.”

• For more information, visit Glounthaune Community Association Facebook page, www.glounthaune.ie, or admin@glounthaune.ie.