Two Swindon friends are set to hold a Christmas crafts fair to help raise funds to support three charities which are close to their hearts.

Both Tanya Medcroft, 47, and Leanne Wheeler, 41, are managers of Crafting Treasures since the business’ inception during the Covid pandemic in 2020.

Tanya had been a self-employed house cleaner prior to this but had suffered from fibromyalgia for five years and decided a career change was needed.

“Cleaning was too much for my body, so when the crafts opportunity came along, I couldn’t resist,” she said.

The company makes their own crafts to sell but primarily are available to offer craft sessions to children, adults and those with learning disabilities.

“Everyone is welcome, no one is excluded from the sessions,” added Tanya.

Alongside these craft sessions, the pair of friends also take part in the Holiday and Food scheme (HAS) which is funded by Swindon Borough Council.

For four weeks of the summer holidays, one week of Christmas and another of Easter, Crafting Treasures welcome children for four hours of crafts and provide them with a hot meal and a snack for free.

Swindon Advertiser: Having a crafty Christmas: Some of the seasonal designs that Creafting Treasures has to offer.Having a crafty Christmas: Some of the seasonal designs that Creafting Treasures has to offer. (Image: Tanya Medcroft)

The dynamic duo’s latest event is the Bizspace Christmas Craft Fayre which will take place on Saturday, November 12, and will raise funds for three charities.

The first of these charities is Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, which has a deep personal meaning to Tanya after her father passed away from the condition in 2020.

“I dedicate this in memory of my dad,” said Tanya.

“He used to dress up as Santa for many years so it is nice that it has come full circle.”

The second charity is Sands, which offers support for those dealing with the deaths of children and was the personal choice of Leanne, who lost her baby three years ago due to a heart condition.

Funds will also be raised for GWH Brighter Futures, who provide support and care to those in Swindon who are undergoing cancer treatment.

This charity is of personal interest to Bizspace’s manage Kirsty Priest, whose mother is currently undergoing cancer treatment.

Saturday’s fayre will feature a kids’ zone complete with face painting, Christmas letter writing and Santa’s grotto, whereas there will also be 40 local crafters present for the adults too.

“We are hoping for a big turnout as it is being organised to raise funds for causes that are close to all of our hearts,” added Leanne.

“People should come and support their local businesses because without the support of the local community, small businesses like ourselves would not be around.”

The event will be held at Bizspace at Cheney Manor and will run from 10am to 4pm, with free entry for all.

For any further information on the event or on general craft sessions, please contact Crafting Treasures on 07908454011.