Minto Gardens hosted its first Spring Markets on Saturday, 22 October, with over 1,300 attending on the day. Contributing to the festival atmosphere of the day, C91.3 radio broadcast from an apartment balcony and gave away prizes to add to the enjoyment.

A range of stalls sold origami pop-up cards, knitted toys, dog treats, jewellery, handmade candles, and nail art. There was also a great selection of food on offer including bubble tea, cheesecake on a stick at the Ice Creamery and, according to Minto Gardens Parish Village Chaplain, Sashi Grayndler, “the best toasties I have ever tasted.”

Whilst the majority of stalls were run by regular market stall-holders, Minto Gardens residents were enthusiastic participants and had a large stand with a raffle, crafts made by residents, and beautiful artwork from the weekly village art class. Resident and art teacher Kerry Walsh set up her spinning wheel and drew a crowd, fascinated by watching the process of wool being spun into thread.

It was a valuable opportunity to welcome members of the local community to the village, enjoy the festivities of the Spring Fair, and to get a sense of what it might be like to live there. When asked what the highlight of the day was for her, Village Coordinator, Sharon Gilbert commented “watching our residents enjoy spending time with their grandchildren and showcasing their village to loved ones with pride.”