It’s that time of year again when the first floor Panelled Room of The Merchant’s House transforms into a land of Christmas plenitude with something for all. And even, for all lovers of fluffy rodents, a very cuddly large rat…… All around a unique Christmas Tree, not a needle in sight, but one created from imaginatively arranged layers of books and Christmas paraphernalia. Worth visiting the room to see that alone.
Lots in Marlborough’s iconic Christmas shop for all, especially for the younger ones. The ‘Gruffalo’ features large, as Shop Manager Jessica Taylor explains: “This year we have expanded our range of children’s offering with a new Julia Donaldson theme, to include the much-loved Gruffalo, Stick Man and other characters. As well as a vast choice of decorations and lights for your home we have a wonderful selection of gifts available from candles to scarves.”
Whilst the Christmas Room will appeal, there is also the option to ‘sponsor a brick’. No, The Merchant’s House isn’t going into DIY sales or Builders’ Supplies, rather they are offering anyone the opportunity to ‘become’ part of the fabric of this legendary House.
The rear chimney in the Merchant’s House, one of the original flue structures (and a later addition just behind it) are in need to restoration. Costly, definitely, as the works will entail a substantial rebuild but in a style and nature that is in keeping with the rest of the house. To help towards the cost of this bricks will be open to sponsorship at £25 per brick. Recognition of each brick sponsored will be on a large ‘Donor Recognition Board’, and possibly a name on each of the sponsored bricks? Maybe, in which case the sponsor’s name would be part of the Merchant’s House although unlikely to be readily visible. But any such decision would be a way off yet. Click here to sponsor a brick, or click here to e-mail the Trust Manager. A different sort of Christmas present…?
Tony Robinson at the Town Hall for a ‘LitFest Plus’ evening
