*Thomas, the therapy dog at St Patrick’s Comprehensive School. Photograph: Abbie Halpin
SHANNON’s Christmas countdown will officially commence with the return of the annual festive market at St Patrick’s Comprehensive School.
On Thursday 19th November, St Patrick’s Comprehensive will open its doors to the community for the annual Christmas market which takes place from 17:00 to 20:30.
What started as a small school initiative has grown into one of the town’s biggest and most anticipated festive occasions.
It began as a small daytime market organised by Transition Year (TY) and Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) students but it now a much-loved part of the calendar for the town of Shannon which attracts stallholders, visitors and families from Shannon and much further afield.
Fifty stalls are already booked for the Christmas Market with more expected over the coming weeks. Charity organisations will also have stalls set up.
Visitors can browse a wonderful selection of handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, unique gifts, baked goods and other products from local independent businesses and traders. A variety of food stalls will also be on site, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy some festive treats while soaking up the atmosphere.
At the heart of the Comp Christmas Market is an extraordinary voluntary effort by staff and students who give so generously of their time, energy and enthusiasm to make the event happen each year. From the initial planning and organisation to preparing the school, coordinating stallholders and ensuring everything runs smoothly on the evening, an enormous amount of work takes place behind the scenes.
Community spirit also extends beyond the evening itself. Many of the stallholders generously contribute goods towards the school’s annual Senior Citizens Christmas Party, helping to bring some additional festive cheer to older members of the Shannon community.
All funds raised directly by the school will go towards its My Canine Companion fundraiser, supporting the training of Thomas, the school’s therapy dog. Thomas has already become a central part of life at The Comp and is a much-loved addition to the school community. His presence has brought plenty of smiles and companionship to students and staff alike, and the school is delighted to be supporting his ongoing training.
In preparation for this year’s market, second-year student Abbie Halpin recently organised a photoshoot with Thomas, capturing photographs which will feature on the school’s Christmas Market posters and promotional materials.
