A giant Christmas tree has become a festive landmark along Picklers Hill in Abingdon.
Picklers Hill is next to South Avenue, the estate that first did advent windows in Abingdon, and they have another good display in 2023.
Day 10 was ‘Batman Saves Christmas after Joker steals presents – the Abingdon Press.’
Day 24 is a nativity scene.
Not long to go. Its is 22:36 and the bells of St Helen’s are ringing, calling people to the Candlelit Midnight Mass.
Today, the Abingdon Fire Fighters collected money for the Fire Fighters Charity on the Market Place. During 2023, they have dealt with house fires, refuse fires, bus fires, and road collisions and given out lots of safety information. They had an open day in July that raised over £1000 for their charity, and in October raised over £2000 with a 24-hour cycle challenge.
Also on the Market Place were Hedges, the butcher, so people could pick up their Christmas orders. And the fruit and veg stall from the Monday Market – on a Saturday.
Belinda has had a shop in West Saint Helen Street for ten years and, to the disappointment of her many customers, has decided to close the business now that the lease has ended.
Known particularly for her homemade jewellery and ornamental items, Belinda also does jewellery repairs.
After over ten years of six-day weeks, Belinda deserves a break, but she will carry on doing repairs from home to keep her hand in and because she enjoys the challenge.
Whilst she is sad to be closing, Belinda says she has thoroughly enjoyed being a small part of the town, and wishes to thank everyone who has supported her business over the years.
There will be a sale of the remaining stock and display cabinets and furniture in January.
A new takeaway/restaurant at Number 3 West St Helen Street offers Afro-Caribbean Cuisine. They have been open for about a week and had a trial run during the Abingdon Fair. I enjoyed my first meal this evening. The Curry Goat was tender, and the rice and peas were flavourful. Good luck to them in their new venture. Check out their menu at pappys.co.uk.