THE first ever Christmas Fair run by the Friends of Mount House proved a great success recently, raising more than £1,200 which will be used for key school projects in 2013.

The event attracted an enthusiastic crowd of shoppers from the local area and the school community, who came along to do some early Christmas shopping and have fun with the various side shows, games and attractions.

Visitors were also able to enjoy treats from the Snowflake Café served to festive music performed by pupils, parents and staff.

Children met Father Christmas in his grotto and took part in arts and crafts and face painting. They also had their own exclusive shopping area (out of bounds to adults), where they could do some discreet Christmas shopping for their families.

The Spot the Ball competition at the Cork 2013 stand —raising money for next year's rugby tour to Ireland — was won by Nicky Crighton. His sister Emily then made it a clean sweep for the Crighton family by making the closest guess to the correct 'Number of Sweeties in the Jar'.

Mount House headmaster Paddy Savage said: 'It was a highly enjoyable experience for the school community and visitors alike. We hope this may become a Mount House tradition for years to come.'