The Christmas Community Market is back for the second time, and aims to raise money for The Soldiers Charity ABF and Motor Neurone Disease Association.

This Saturday, November 30, The Lighthouse in Salford is hosting the family fun market, which last time in 2017 saw a turnout of more than 2,500 people, with more than £6,000 raised.

Mark Poncia, Learning Development and Apprenticeship partner, is part of the Morson charity team who organised the event. He said: “This year, we are expecting a massive turnout, but it’s not about the turnout for us.

“The more the merrier, but the event is all about raising money and awareness for the charities and involving different aspects of the community.”

Last years charity stand

Morson draws up a shortlist of charity nominations each year. This year the Soldiers Charity ABF and Motor Neurone Disease Association were the winners.

Morson also holds events throughout the year to raise money for them, like bake cake days and charity bike rides.

According to mndassociation.org, there is a one in 300 risk of getting Motor Neurone Disease across a lifetime. It can affect adults of any age but is more likely to affect people over 50. The Soldiers Charity ABF is the national charity of the British Army, providing a lifetime of support to soldiers, veterans and their immediate families when they are in need.

Festive food and drink, a Santas Grotto, and over 60 stalls can be expected at the market, alongside on- stage live entertainment such as carol singers and dance groups from local schools. Eccles Rotary club are even providing a Santa sleigh.

Mr Poncia said: “It’s a huge event for Morson. For us it is making sure that those two charities are supported. Every single penny will go to them.”  

Motor Neurone Disease affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK every year. At the market there will be ‘Morson staff stalls, such as tombolas, which will raise money for the charities, and independent stallholders selling Christmas gifts. 

Andy Reid, a ‘Morson’ ambassador and Afghanistan war veteran, will be signing copies of his books at the market. 

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Mr Poncia said: “We’re not doing it every year because of the amount of work involved, it does take a lot of our time up- 6 months in the planning. We’re looking at doing it every couple of years.” 

The event has moved location since last time as it has grown. They have teamed up with The Lighthouse, which is located at 12 Coronet Way, Salford M50 1RE. Entry is £1 which includes entry into the festive raffle, with the prize being a festive hamper. Parking is free. 

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