Christmas started early in Defra this year.  On 13 December the Atrium was decked with tinsel and filled with carol singing by the Defra Choir, when Defra’s Marine Programme organised a Christmas Fair to support the Civil Service Lifeboat Fund.

Previous weeks of cajoling paid off as promised cakes were delivered, along with books and CDs and a crack sales-team swung into action.  Swash-buckling pirates turned out to be the Soils team who ran a treasure hunt, with a treasure chest brimming with sweets as the prize.  The tombola stall, with its dazzling array of prizes, run by Internal Communications team, was a major attraction; as was the raffle with prizes including a visit to the Tower of London.  The Marine Management Organisation baffled everyone with its ‘guess the weight and species of the fish’ competition.  A nautical quiz, Christmas quiz and 'animal tracks in the snow' quiz also challenged visitors to the Fair.

RNLI volunteers from Tower Lifeboat station, Cefas and the Environment Agency made the event particularly rewarding, as we were able to meet the people who risk their lives to save others.  They really motivated everyone to help to raise as much money as possible. 

The importance of fundraising to support the RNLI was underlined when the Minister broke off from his busy schedule to meet RNLI volunteers, open the Fair – and to visit every stall.  The Permanent Secretary and other senior staff, along with colleagues from across Defra, all supported the fundraising.

Lots of people pitched in to make the Fair happen.  It was fun.  It was rewarding.  But above all we raised £1045!

Richard Benyon, Minister for Natural Environment and Fisheries, enjoys the fun of the Fair