A CHARITY has launched a festive online shop for the first time after its annual fundraising fair was cancelled.

Families and friends usually enjoy browsing the stalls at the Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation’s Christmas Fair each December.

But due to Covid-19 this year’s event had cancelled.

Not wanting to disappoint followers, the foundation instead launched a dedicated Christmas shop online for 2020.

So far, more than 1,000 items have been bought by savvy shoppers, raising thousands of pounds for young people with cancer.

Tom Bowdidge died in October 2014 having fought an aggressive stomach cancer. He was 19.

During his illness, he raised an incredible £170,000 for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

His parents, Richard and Nikki, have continued his good work, setting up the foundation in his name.

Nikki Bowdidge, chief executive officer and founder, said: “Organising our Christmas fair is always an amazing time and I wasn’t about to let 2020 get the better of us.

“Of course, we normally look forward to welcoming people into the foundation’s HQ with our heated tent and mulled wine to browse the fabulous traders.

“But what better way to get your Christmas presents and decorations, and support young people with cancer, than by browsing our festive shop from your sofa?”

The foundation’s shop has reached more shoppers than ever before, with sales in Aberdeen, Cornwall and Northern Ireland.

From beautiful baubles and glass trees to festive wooden decorations and snow globes, there is something for everyone.

Nikki added: “We have so many unique decorations to really put the finishing touches to your Christmas, and all at amazing prices too.

“We all know how hard 2020 has been. And while we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to our headquarters next Christmas, we couldn’t let 2020 end without a fabulous festive treat.

“Not only that, but you will be helping young people with cancer across the UK too.”

All decorations can be ordered before being picked up through click and collect at 9 Firmins Court, West Bergholt.

To get your individual decorations, head to www.tombowdidgefoundation.org/shop.