Handmade decorations from the Garden Club of Monaco ladies. Photo: Claire Lathbury

Doors open at 10am prompt on Saturday (5th) and visitors will find everything from jewellery to electrical goods, Christmas cards, bric-a-brac, handmade decorations by the Garden Club of Monaco (pictured), toys and second-hand clothes. A star attraction is the English book stall where hundreds of second-hand books are on offer, all well organised so you can easily find what you want.

Another highlight is the British stand, usually groaning under a mound of edible goodies such as Xmas puds, mince pies, chutneys, crackers, mint jelly, English chocolate, homemade cakes, etc. This being the French Riviera, it’s not just about the Brits but all the other nationalities. Proceeds from the bazaar are divided between the British Association of Monaco, St Paul’s Church, the Société de Saint Vincent de Paul (St Charles church), the Eglise Reformée de Monaco, the Spanish community and the Greek Orthodox parish.

The variety of international dishes on offer is mouth-wateringly varied, with the Spanish paella and sangria being a big draw. There is also a very busy bar, and with all stalls being run by volunteers you can eat like a king for a song.

Tombola tickets are 2 euros and the winning entries will be drawn at 5pm. CL