Christchurch Rotary’s Living Advent Calendar raises £20,000 for local charities

AN IMPRESSIVE £20,000 was raised for 24 local charities by the Christchurch Living Advent Calendar.

Rotary president Peter Boardman announced the news at the last performance ‘behind the door’ of the calendar at Saxon Square on Christmas Eve.

The calendar for 24 days entertained crowds in the town with an appearance by a different act each evening.

Sponsored by local businesses and organisations, it has the Primrose Charitable Trust as prime sponsor.

Deputy town crier Adam Cosham announced the attendance of Christchurch mayor Vivienne Charrett who said she was “delighted” to be at the closing performance of the calendar.

She said it CLAC had “raised the profile of the town, and of all the organisations involved” adding: “Well done Rotary!”

It was the third year the calendar has been run and raised money for charities including Listening Ear, Somerford Community Centre, Macmillan Caring Locally, Christchurch Food Bank and Bournemouth Blind Society.

The Christchurch Vintage Brass Band were the musicians behind door 24 and played Christmas music and carols.

Jan Banks, leader of the CLAC organising team, was presented with a bouquet by the Rotary club for her team’s “dedicated work in bringing CLAC to life”.

She said: “This year’s event was again a great success, raising ever more funds for local charities despite damp and chilly weather. This festive celebration is now well established in Christchurch – and many performers, sponsors and venues are already requesting slots for CLAC 2024.”

“My thanks go to the CLAC team, without whom this event could not have happened, and to everyone who attended each evening to support CLAC 2023.”