PICTURES: Christmas market shows Alness is The Place to be as trailblazing event boosts youth work in the area

CHRISTMAS came early for an Easter Ross community which turned out in force for a festive market in Alness at the weekend.

Organised by The Place Youth Group, the first-of-its-kind Saturday event attracted an estimated 1600-plus through the gate with stallholders reporting solid business and a well-supported raffle raising over £2550.

The Place thanked locals for their support and the "huge amount of donations" plus "the generous feedback we have received".

It said: "We tried our best to give everyone a magical Christmas experience with Santa and his reindeers, and we are delighted to have seen so many youngsters with smiles on their faces. This is why we do what we do."

Lord Lieutenant of Ross and Cromarty Joanie Whiteford, who attended the event, said: "It was great to see it was so well supported by the community.

"The elves had had a very busy day –they are superstars. I bet they are exhausted tonight – well done all of you!"

One grateful visitor, Libby Ross, said: "Thank you so much for a wonderful fair. Well done to Gary Miller for organising it and as always thank you to Janette Douglas and all the team And Thank you to the young team too that all turned up in force and worked hard."

The Place welcomes major Children in Need vote of confidence

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