Westergate school lays on festive evening

The school's hall is being transformed into a celebration of Christmas and the go-getting skills of women.

Santa will arrive at 3.30pm to declare the event open for the first major public event since the school became a specialist school in visual and performing arts.

He will be present in his Harry Potter-themed grotto complete with

floating ceiling lights until 8pm to meet anyone with a seasonal request.

Around him will be 26 tables being used by a range of businesswomen, who will be promoting their work.

It includes jewellery making, a nature and science business and watch making.

The occasion at the school's Lime Avenue campus has been organised by its community arts manager, Joanne Wilkinson, working with Chichester company Giant Apple Events.

Dozens of other companies have backed the night with raffle prizes. Top prize is a saxophone.

Others include a shoulder of lamb and a free night in a B&B.

Admission is 1 adults and free for children.

Mrs Wilkinson hopes to raise 5,000 from tonight (Thursday, December 11).

Proceeds will go towards the school's fundraising to create a 200-seat

performing space and arts gallery from its canteen for residents and students to enjoy from next year.

The school received 100,000 from the government for specialist status as well as some 100 a year for the next three years for each of the 750 pupils.

But the school still needs to raise a considerable sum of money to achieve its goals.

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