The Christmas in the Courtyard event held on the 1stDecember has been hailed a success by its organisers with artists, makers, festive music and mulled wine creating a festive atmosphere.
A partnership between St Mary’s Priory, Made in Monmouthshire and the Welsh Centre of Excellence set out to showcase local arts and welsh culture with some warming hot drinks and Christmas cake. Across the day, music was provided by Abergavenny Borough Band, St Mary’s Priory Choir, s local welsh folk band and a jazz quartet which added to the magic of the Christmas lights and special setting of the Prince of Wales Courtyard.
Sir Trefor Morris, Chair of the Priory Development Trust welcomed the success of the event saying that “It was an enjoyable family day for all ages, with a variety of musical entertainment, insights into Tudor life and dress in Abergavenny, scrummy food by the Welsh Centre and of course a wide range of handcrafted items by Made in Monmouthshire, a timely opportunity for some clever buying of Christmas gifts to inadequate shoppers like me! The organising group, have in mind other events during 2019 to take advantage of the lovely setting of the Prince of Wales Courtyard within St Mary’s Priory Site, to provide community involvement and enjoyment.”
Jan Thomas from Made in Monmouthshire commenting on the first market said, “We were thrilled with the success of the event, the atmosphere created and the enthusiasm of the general public and look forward to The Courtyard featuring regularly as a venue for our events in 2019.”
Michael Powell, Rural Programme Manager for the Vale of Usk said “Monmouthshire County Council from both the Rural Development Programme, and the Events Team perspective is pleased to have been able to support such an ambitious venture. The day went flawlessly with so many happy faces from stallholders and the public enjoying music, festive food, atmosphere and the wares on sale.”
The event was funded through the Vale of Usk Rural Development Programme and has been sponsored by local business Chris Jones Regeneration
Tithe Barn Abergavenny 