THE first ever festive arts and crafts fair held in Johnstone Town Hall turned out to be a real pre-Christmas cracker.

Over the weekend, more than 1,160 people turned up for the free event and a family fun day organised by Renfrewshire Leisure.

Little ones of all ages and savvy shoppers looking to get their festive bargains sorted early descended for the Christmas-themed bonanza.

And guests were not left disappointed by the wide range of entertainment and goodies on offer.

In fact, the two-day event was such a big success that organisers hope to do it all again next year.

Shoppers were spoiled for choice as there were more than 30 stalls in place, offering all kinds of arts and crafts.

Among the goodies up for grabs were beautiful hand-made clocks, soya candles, embroidery, jewellery, papercraft, stained glass and unusual Christmas gifts and decorations.

Meanwhile, the festive family fun day featured Santa’s grotto, where kids revealed their big wishes for Christmas.

There was also a bouncy castle, arts and crafts activities, balloon modelling and a treasure hunt involving Santa’s missing elves.

Children also got the chance to decorate some gingerbread men biscuits.

Joyce McKellar, chief executive of Renfrewshire Leisure, told The Gazette: “Everyone had a great time over the two-day event and it got all of them in the Christmas spirit.

“The stallholders were pleased at the turnout and the business they did. A lot of them were asking when our next Arts and Crafts Fair is being held, so they could come along.”