Christmas Cards at Cotes Mill

13th December 2018

By Helen Robson

It’s that time of year when we start thinking about making our homes extra cosy and festive ready for Christmas. Our very own Cotes Mill becomes a, more tasteful but still just as sparkly, winter wonderland.

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Stocked full of extra special gifts for our loved ones, it’s the perfect place to visit to discover something a little different and a shopping experience that is tranquil and inspiring. I always buy a good few of my presents here (at least for myself anyway!).

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It’s also a time of year that our thoughts often turn to those who are less fortunate than ourselves. As we fill our baskets and boots with presents it’s fab when you find a gift that gives back too. This Christmas deVOL are selling these lovely cards made by residents of local homeless charity Exaireo.

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The charity provides vital housing as well as a program designed to help homeless people get back on their own two feet, into work and into their own homes. I’ve been lucky enough to run workshops with these wonderful folk a couple of days a week over these last few months. Its been amazing to see how each Exaireo resident’s confidence has grown as they have seen what they can make with their own two hands plus a little time and a fair dollop of patience!

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All profits from the sale of the cards go back into the project so please do come and pick one or two up for your favourite people. Each card is handprinted and has a removable, origami Christmas decoration handcrafted from an old magazine page.

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Don’t you just love it when buying something makes you feel so charitable? It makes you feel a bit better about all those presents you bought for yourself this year doesn’t it…