As this year is the Golden Jubilee of the founding of St. Christopher’s church in 1953, it is hoped that Fête 2003 will be the best ever, particularly as it will have a distinctly festive focus. Start time: 12 noon. Children may visit Santa Claus in his grotto, while adults browse through the Christmas Tree Decorations, Christmas Stockings and Fillers – and hopefully buy them, too!  

St. Christopher’s School Concert Band makes its fête début at 1.00 p.m. The ever-popular Public Security Band entertains at 2.00 p.m. Then at 3 p.m.: the Best Dressed Clown Competition – another innovation to provide fun and laughter.  

The Grand Raffle Draw starts at 4.00 p.m. And much more - all the popular games, activities and things-to-buy – including Golden Jubilee mugs and polo-shirts. 

However ……! To achieve this, as many readers of BAN know, an immense amount of hard work goes on behind the scenes, starting several months before the event. Without the generosity of Bahrain’s business community – with their voluntary services and financial support – the event could neither take place in its present form, nor would it succeed in raising thousands of dinars for various local charities and the upkeep of the Cathedral. In the limited space available here, it is impossible to name everyone. Full credits will be published in the Fête souvenir brochure. 

That said, I would like to thank the Steering Committee whose commitment, expertise and support has been unfailing: the Dean, Elizabeth George, Paul Hamilton, Ed Horn, Andrew Petty, Nigel Smith, Uwe Stein and Marion Waugh-Young. If the fête sometimes feels like a long slog, it’s great team-work which makes it all worthwhile. 

And if you are among those who have generously donated items for the stalls, and/or will be operating them on the day, thank-you, particularly to the Bahrain Round Table for co-ordinating raffle ticket activities at the fête. 

A lesser-known aspect of the Grand Raffle – but fundamental to its success – is the support we receive from the principals, parents and pupils of St. Christopher’s Schools, Nadeen School and the British School in selling tickets prior to the fête. Their continuing participation is never assumed. Naturally, it is gratefully received. 

So! Do come and enjoy yourselves on 12^th December - if you are in Bahrain. If not, then your prayers for its success – and good weather – will be equally welcome.

                                                                   Angela Murray – Fete Chairman.