A group of residents at The Vines at Bethlehem are hosting their third annual Market Day on November 16 from 9am-12 noon to raise funds for a much-needed and much-used charity, St John Ambulance Service.

The Vines at Bethlehem lifestyle retirement village has blossomed into life. The actual building of The Vines is almost complete – with only a few villas available, and now the committee is finding ways to help its local community.

The Vines have held the market day in November for the past two years. In the first year, they raised $3000 for breast cancer; the previous year they raised more than $5000 for Waipuna Hospice.

This year, the organising committee is doubling down on its commitment to the cause. It’s putting in even more effort to grow the event, with the 2024 recipient being the St John ambulance service.

The Vines market coordinator Penny Vaughan said St John was an easy choice to receive the event’s funds.

“A lifestyle village of more than 300 residents aged 65-plus, we appreciate St John Ambulance’s service to our community – so please show your support on November 16.”

The Vines’ November 16 Market Day will have a range of crafts, cakes, baking, jams, chutneys, Christmas gifts made by residents. Photo: Brydie Thompson

Vaughan said on Market Day the group will have a range of handmade items for sale under the foyer of the village’s clubhouse including crafts, cakes, baking, jams, chutneys, Christmas gifts, garden plants, bric-a-brac, etc.

“All of the items have been made by residents here at The Vines; many of us have started our seedlings or cuttings to have stock ready for the Market Day.”

This year the Vines Market Day Committee will trial a sausage sizzle, plus a raffle, and the café will be open too.

“We’re all in this together, and your presence at the Market Day on November 16 is much appreciated. So please mark your calendars and come along to support a good cause.

“The committee looks forward to seeing you there!”