A MUCH loved independent retailer in Cirencester celebrated its 40th anniversary in style with a charity fun day last Saturday.

Gardiner Haskins Cirencester kicked off their 40th celebrations in style on Saturday, April 14 with a jam packed day of entertainment, transforming the shop into hive of fun for customers and families.

Organisers also invited special guests including the Easter Bunny and iconic Disney princesses.

Local families flocked to the store to enjoy face painting and magic tricks as well as taking part in craft activities such as peg dolly making and colouring.

The fun day was a great success for fundraising too, raising £1,300 for their chosen charity for 2019, Maggie’s Cheltenham.

Along with their other recent fundraising activities, including a charity dance performed by department manager Richard Newman, the store has raised an impressive £2,000 for Maggie’s in the last few weeks.

Event organiser Karley Coles said: “It’s fantastic that everyone had such a wonderful time at the fun day. We are so proud to have been part of Cirencester for 40 years and really wanted the community to celebrate with us.

“The customers seemed to love all the activities we had in store. As an independent retailer we love being part of the community and to raise so much money for our charity was amazing.

“They are a charity so close to our hearts and we never expected to raise so much.

“Special thanks to all of the staff who worked so hard to organise the day, to our suppliers who donated amazing raffle prizes and to Little Dreamers Events who offered us visits from their princesses to bring some extra magic to the day.”

Wayne Russell of Maggie’s Cheltenham said: “We are really grateful for the support that Gardiner Haskins are giving Maggie’s throughout 2019.

"Maggie’s is completely funded by donations so working in partnership with Gardiner Haskins, provides us with a great opportunity to keep helping people with cancer, as well as their friends and family but also helps raise awareness.

“With the generosity and commitment Gardiner Haskins have brought to the partnership, it means that someone dealing with a cancer diagnosis can access emotional support from a qualified professional.

“It means someone can get practical advice from a benefits advisor and it means someone can find a quiet place to sit in the garden when they’re feeling overwhelmed. We couldn’t be here, and do what we do, without the help of others.”