A Durham school group is celebrating national recognition as it gears up for a festive fundraiser.
The Parents, Teachers, and Friends Association (PTFA) at Durham Gilesgate Primary School has been named New PTFA of the Year 2025 by Parentkind, a group that supports PTFAs across the country.
The award comes just as the group prepares to host its second annual Winter Fair on Saturday, November 29.
Gilesgate Primary School pupils at last year’s Winter Fair (Image: Supplied)
Jenny Lawshaw, chair of the PTFA, said: “To be named New PTFA of the Year was a huge surprise, credit to our wonderful volunteers and supporters, and a huge feather in our cap.
“For a small state primary school in North East England to beat off all competition from across the country makes us tremendously proud.
“It gives us even more reason to celebrate with a spectacular Winter Fair and we hope many from our local community will join us for the day.”
(Image: Supplied)
The fair will run from 2pm to 4.30pm and promises to be a magical afternoon of festive fun, with something for all ages.
Highlights of the event include an enchanted Christmas tree display, Santa’s grotto, face painting, crafts, games, competitions, refreshments, and gift shopping.
One of the standout attractions this year will be the debut of a charity Christmas single.
The cover image for the Christmas Single (Image: Supplied)
The song, We All Love Christmas Day, is a wintry pop-rock ballad written by PTFA member and singer-songwriter Will Milton for his daughter.
It will be performed live at the fair by the school’s sing-signing choir using British Sign Language.
The single will be released on Friday, November 21, and will be available for purchase on Bandcamp for £3 or a higher donation, as well as on iTunes and other outlets.
Guests will also have the chance to buy the single in person at the fair.
The PTFA was formed just last year and has already made a big impact on the school community.
In its first year, the group organised the school’s first Winter Fair, an Iftar meal, a Summer Fun Day, and a range of after-school clubs.
Its efforts have focused on bringing families together, fostering a sense of community, and raising much-needed funds for the school.
The PTFA hopes this year’s Winter Fair will be bigger and better than ever, with even more involvement from residents, businesses, and organisations.
Entry to the event is free and no booking is required.
Those wishing to learn more about the event or get involved with the PTFA can contact [email protected] or visit the Gilesgate Primary PTFA Facebook page.
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