The Annual fundraiser (1) with its theme of 'Musicals' is celebrating its best ever results with almost £17,000 to be shared by the two charities. With a footfall of some 6500, the numbers included 1000 adults and children participating in the daily choirs (including dancers and instrumentalists) from community groups and schools. Four children received book tokens for correctly spotting the figures from 'Musicals' among 61 trees.

Margaret Oakley, Festival Chair, is delighted to announce this year's winners of the 'People's Choice' (3) best decorated tree. The Children from Edith Cavell Primary School chose The Wizard of Oz as their musical. Each class contributed to the display.

Meanwhile the Aragon Lacemakers won the adult trophy. Members of the group of about 90 lacemakers (formed in 1977)  made 80 musical notes, 10 lampposts and 24 umbrellas to depict 'Singing in the Rain'.

Margaret Oakley said:

' It has been a great joy to welcome so many people into this annual community festival leading into the Christmas season, held in this magnificent town centre church. Funds raised will go towards keeping the church open for its breadth of visitors and to providing the Primrose car service for patients needing treatment at Addenbrooks Hospital'.

Margaret added:' The Festival relies on a huge band of volunteers to whom we are most grateful and to sponsors including Jayne Beard Associates, in memory of Jayne a former Chair of the Bedford Hospital Charity.