St Augustine's Christmas Bazaar

And opening the event was a very special lady, whom, according to Reverend Robert Coates graciously stepped in for HRH the Queen - who apparently was a bit too busy to attend.

He said: "I wrote to the Queen to ask her to open our Christmas Bazaar today, but she's busy Christmas shopping, so we have the next best thing...my Mum Shirley Coates."

Shirley, who had made the trip to Bexhill from her home in Cambridgeshire, hoped the day would be "successful and raise lots of money for a very good cause," and her good wishes came true as just over 1,300 was raised for general church funds.

The day proved to be a success in more ways than one as along with the spectacular array of goods available to buy, which included a delicious selection of home-made cakes and preserves, gifts, jewellery, china, bric a brac, books, DVD's, toys, two raffles, a tombola and Christmas decorations, a special violin and piano Christmas Carol CD, which talented Robin Wilson - a member of the church congregation - had made and produced himself, sold out within minutes.

The festivities also included refreshments of teas, coffees, scones, mince pies, roast chestnuts and mulled wine, served by cheerful volunteers; many of whom dressed for the occasion in a variety of colourful fancy hats.

Rev'd Coates praised everyone involved for making the event such an enjoyable and successful occasion and said: "Thank you to everyone who has worked tirelessly to make this a great Christmas Bazaar."