URGENT UPDATE: More than 150 children received festive gifts for Rudolph as local farmers brought holiday cheer to Newark Market Place this past weekend. Farmers from surrounding areas, including Newark, Farnsfield, Southwell, Kelham, and Sutton-on-Trent, participated in the “Carrots for Rudolph” giveaway on December 20, from 10 AM to 1 PM.
During this lively event, farmers handed out bags filled with fresh, washed carrots and hay to families doing their last-minute Christmas shopping. The initiative aimed not only to delight children but also to connect the community with its local agricultural producers.
County NFU chairman Oliver Collingham, of Combs Farm in Farnsfield, described the day as “really lovely.” He noted the overwhelming demand, stating, “From minute one we had children and parents wanting to take a carrot and hay for the reindeer, so much so we had to get more carrier bags from a neighbouring market stall.” Over 150 bags were distributed in just three hours.
The event also provided children with a unique opportunity to interact with a tractor and engage with the farmers who grow their food. “Many of the children sat on the tractor and wanted to ask various questions about farming,” Collingham added. “Our farming volunteers were very glad to answer.”
This festive gathering not only highlighted the joy of the holiday season but also emphasized the importance of supporting British farming. As families prepared for Christmas, Collingham remarked, “Not only will the people of Nottinghamshire be enjoying high-quality British food on Christmas Day, but so will Santa’s reindeer.”
This year’s event marked the second annual giveaway by Nottinghamshire farmers, inspired by a similar initiative in Staffordshire. Collingham expressed hope for the tradition to expand to more towns and villages in the future, stating, “It’s something we’ll be looking to repeat, or find ways to improve to make it an even lovelier experience.”
Local community members are encouraged to share their experiences and photos from the event, as the spirit of giving continues to resonate throughout Newark. Stay tuned for more updates on future events and initiatives aimed at bringing the community together through local agriculture.
