Firms go crackers over christmas

From the Swindon Advertiser, first published Monday 27th Oct 2003.

It's that time of year - when the work Christmas party sees staff letting their hair down after 12 months of hard slog. But as KEVIN SHOESMITH reports, the traditional sit-down bash is becoming a thing of the past.

WITH Christmas just eight weeks away many firms are already planning their parties to reward staff for a year's hard graft.

Conference venues and hotels across Swindon say trade is booming as they start to dig out the tinsel and organise their Christmas menus.

But one Swindon firm keen not to forget the town's needy is Zurich Financial Services.

In addition to holding individual department parties, staff are planning a charity festive party at Po Na Na nightclub.

"With more than 3,000 employees in Swindon, and around 12,000 people working across the UK, it would be difficult for us to find a venue to house all our people," said company spokeswoman Jane Hewin.

"Most business divisions organise their own Christmas parties with elected groups planning events that best suit the preferences of their colleagues.

"Through the charity Christmas party we will raise more than £2,000 to support disadvantaged and vulnerable groups around Swindon."

Meanwhile other firms around Swindon are gearing up for their parties.

Blick UK has already secured its venue at the Thistle Hotel for December 6.

Beth Ayres, human resources advisor for the firm, says tickets are selling like hot cakes with only a handful now left.

She said: "We have let our staff decide where the party is going to be. They had a choice of three locations and decided on the Thistle Hotel.

"We are planning to have a four course meal followed by a party that will go on to 1am.

"The annual Christmas party has a social aspect and people like to get together and have a bit of fun and a laugh."

Meanwhile Christmas is coming four times to a pub in Stratton.

Gary Golding, co-manager of the Greenbridge Pub in Bridgend Road, says they have been inundated with enquiries from businesses wanting to book places for their staff.

Management have set aside every Saturday in December as a party night, and rather than offering the exclusive use of its large function room, which can accommodate between 200 and 300 people, they are selling individual tickets priced £25 each.

According to Mr Golding, several top firms ­ including Curry's ­ have snapped up tickets.

"The take-up has been absolutely fantastic," he said.

"I am sure everybody will have a great time here. During the day there will be a buffet and at night a disco is planned."

Swindon Town Football Club also seems a popular choice.

Brian Wood, the club's conferencing manager, says many firms are going for a more laid-back do than in previous years.

He said: "Business is fairly healthy although it is definitely more laid-back this year. Quite a few people are not opting for sit-down meals. I think buffets are more fun and allow everyone to mix better."

Danielle Brown, manager of the Royal Oak in South Cerney near Cirencester, is also hoping to cash in on the festivities.

She too says business is going well, with 15 firms already booked in.

The pub-restaurant, which boasts roaring open fires, has just put the final touches to its three-course Christmas meal menu, which costs £15.95.

"We have recently done our Christmas menu and it's looking pretty good," said Ms Brown.

"It's a nice traditional pub and there is a great atmosphere. The restaurant can cater for up to 40 people so everyone can sit together, which in a lot of places isn't possible."

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