CHRISTMAS decorations, twinkling tinsel and hand-made garlands were just a selection of creative crafts available at a festive charity fair at the weekend.

The Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis, in Westmead Drive, held its third annual Christmas craft fair complete with Christmas pudding shaped chocolate cosies, woollen crackers and felt bumblebees

Volunteer coordinator and fair organiser Tania Clegg said the event was a sparkling success.

“It’s gone wonderfully well so far. People love the Christmas crafts and there’s a lovely welcoming atmosphere when people walk in," she said.

“It gets better each year, we have different people exhibiting. My favourite has to be the woodburner, it’s the first year we’ve had one.”

More than 100 shoppers gathered to show their support for the charity at the all-day event which was also attended by Swindon MPs Robert Buckland and Justin Tomlinson.

Samantha Mulvey, 39, from Highworth, was one of the crafty exhibitors on the day. She was diagnosed with MS in 2008 and has attended the centre since 2010.

She said creating felt crafts, such as a heart shaped garland and keyrings, helped her as she underwent oxygen therapy at the centre.

“I work on the crafts when I’m in the oxygen chamber, because you can’t talk to anyone it helps keep me busy and occupied when I’m in there for an hour," she said.

"I love being part of the fayre because I’m raising money for a service that’s been a lifeline to me.”

All funds will enable the charity to continue delivering its vital services.

The Swindon Therapy Centre for MS offers therapies, advice and support to those with multiple sclerosis and their families in Swindon and the surrounding area, and is the only centre of its kind within a 35-mile radius of Swindon.

It offers specialist treatments including hyperbaric oxygen treatment, physiotherapy, yoga, and tai-chi.

For more information visit www.msswindon.org.uk