CHRISTMAS festivities got underway early this year in Crossmaglen with a well supported charity show in aid of Crumlin Hospital for Sick Children in Dublin.

Competitors and supporters from both sides of the border came in their costumes, glitter and Christmas jumpers to support the wonderful work done at Crumlin by the dedicated medical staff.

The day began with 23 runners in the Christmas Cracker Pole class, where the prize for the best turned out went to Cassie McTeggart and Billy Blue. Mickey Bo, ridden by Jessica Lynch, took the honours in the Rudolf Stakes while Danny, ridden by Mischa Lennon, were the winners of the Christmas Pudding class.

Santa Claus made a special appearance in the afternoon, to the delight of all the boys and girls, followed by fun-filled raffle. Beautiful hampers were donated by local business, including two bronze turkeys from Cliodhna McArdle’s farm in Co Monaghan, hampers were also donated from Botanica, Horse First, MotherBee, Mary Deery’s shop, Casey’s Crossmaglen, Creggan Farm and Emily McCourt.

“We would just like to thank everybody for coming to our Christmas Charity Show and supporting our Christmas Jumper Day for Crumlin Hospital for Sick Children and we wish everybody a very happy and healthy new year,” said James Kernan.