Residents will be able to make a start on their Christmas shopping while supporting a mid-Essex hospice next month, as its annual autumn shopping event is back.

Farleigh Hospice's autumn shopping extravaganza will be held in the Essex Barn at the Channels Estate, in Chelmsford, from 10am to 3pm on Wednesday 3 November.

There will be a range of pop-up shops selling boutique clothing and accessories, alongside homeware, glass decorations, skincase handmade jewellery, chocolates and specialty gins.

One of the stallholders that will be selling items on the day is Seres Gifts, which sells silver and silk items.

Owner Sophie Davis said that she is "excited" to attend, after the annual event could not go ahead last year due to the pandemic.

She said: "It is one of the first ones that I have been able to attend in nearly two years because of the pandemic.

"For me, charity events like Farleigh's are a wonderful way of bringing people together.

"These events offer a nice shopping experience with independent retailers that offer something different from the high street.

"They give great customer service in a lovely environment as well as raising vital funds for the hospice.

"The hospice movement is something that means a lot to me on a personal level, and as we are all aware, the pandemic has made fundraising very difficult for charities like Farleigh.

"My hope is that the resurgence of gift fairs helps local charities to fundraise, allows independent traders to get back on their feet, and gives people the freedom of the shopping experience that they were denied last year - hopefully making for a happier Christmas."

The Friends of Farleigh and Farleigh craft groups will also have stalls at the event, and the Channels Bar and Brasserie will be selling coffees, teas, lunches and snacks.

Debbie de Boltz, fundraising manager for Farleigh Hospice, said: "We're thrilled to be able to hold our annual autumn shopping event again this year thanks to the kind support of Channels Estate.

"We're really looking forward to seeing our regular stall holders and supporters again.

We've got a fantastic range of gift items on sale this year - from clothing and handmade jewellery to natural skincare products and handmade chocolates.

"All the money raised from the entry fee of £5 will go towards helping Farleigh to continue to provide much-needed care and support to the people of mid Essex affected by life-limiting illness and bereavement."

Entry is £5, and includes the chance to win a luxury hamper.

There is no need to register in advance - simply pay at the door on the day.

Confirmed stallholders include:

- Mary James

- Driftwood Designs

- Cornucopia Candles

- Helen Rose Glass

- Seres Gifts Limited

- Flamingo Paperie

- Tiptree

- The Only Way is Gin

- Temprd Chocolate

You can find more information here, or contact the fundraising team on 01245 457411 or [email protected].