MORE than £1,500 was raised in less than a day before Christmas, as staff at the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice shop on Downing Street in Farnham put on another impressive in-store festive event for the second consecutive year.

“It was a wonderful day and a very special one, where we had extra things on sale. More of our staff joined us and everyone got dressed up,” said shop manager Gill Drover.

“We had a special guest, Santa himself, but he had to leave to feed his reindeer, which is when one of our young volunteers, Max Healey, took his place. He is a lovely man."

The smell of succulent homemade cakes drew in shoppers from near and far, as the middle section of the shop was transformed into a refreshments area. The day also featured a raffle, music, free draw for a hamper, tombola, and a colouring competition for children.

Gill added: “We raised £1,500.57, which is amazing and more than last year. We are really pleased. I couldn’t do any of this without the support of all of my staff and volunteers, they are such lovely and loyal people and support everything we do.

“It was a lovely day and a great atmosphere. We had our regular customers and new ones come in as well, so thank you to everyone old and new. It was just brilliant.”