MORE than 100 of Coleg Llandrillo’s independent living skills (ILS) and hospitality and catering students served up a winter wonderland when hosting their annual outdoor Christmas market at the college’s Rhos-on-Sea campus.

Staff and students alike were delighted to be able to pick up a handcrafted festive bargain or two as they wandered around several outdoor market stalls staged in a traditional European style.

Coleg Llandrillo principal Lawrence Wood officially opened proceedings.

Due to a sustained period of inclement weather, the college’s caretakers had to start erecting the market at 6am on the actual day.

Scores of ILS students - who have additional learning needs - spent weeks preparing for the event, from which all funds raised will go to charity.

The students were joined by pupils on the college’s schools link programme; schools involved in the partnership initiative include Ysgol y Gogarth in Llandudno and Ysgol Bryn Elian in Colwyn Bay.

Prior to the event, the students used their skills to recycle and upcycle a selection of wooden and general household items, transforming them into festive decorations to sell on the day, including Christmas baubles, wreaths and table runners.

They also manned a tombola and raffle stand.

The hospitality and catering students sold a delicious array of festive treats, including Christmas puddings and mince pies to name a few.

Independent living skills programme area manager, Jane Myatt, said: “We are extremely proud of our students for the hard work leading up to the market and during the actual day.

“They really enjoyed selling their creations to staff and students alike, raising hundreds of pounds for charity in the process.”

Principal Lawrence Wood added: “This was a fantastic effort by our students and staff who have worked incredibly hard all term.

“I can't think of a better way to begin the festive season.”