VOLUNTEERS have turned a ton of tinsel into baubles and gifts for a Christmas fair.

The annual Alzheimer’s Society event takes place at the Cornerstones Centre, in Chester-le-Street on Saturday (Nov 14), having outgrown its previous home at the charity’s offices.

North Durham MP Kevan Jones will call into the fair, which takes place from 10am to 2pm.

Homebase in Durham donated tinsel and baubles to turn into festive gifts and decorations and the team has been busy turning cloth into Christmas stockings and wreaths

Alzheimer’s Society community fundraiser, Rebecca Scott, said: “A dedicated dozen or more volunteers have spent week after week creating wonderful crafty gifts”.

The team has been meeting at Maggie’s Tea Rooms, in Washington, where the café has provided the charity their function room free of charge.

Alzheimer’s Society volunteering officer, Chris Colley, said: “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I called in – it was like Santa Claus’ workshop.”

As well as the volunteer crafts there will be stalls featuring home-made honey and hand-crafted wreaths.

A raffle is also taking place with prizes donated including one night’s a stay at the four star Matfen Hall, afternoon tea for four at the Marriot, Gateshead, and a £200 ring from Frazer Hart jewellers.