HOMEMAKERS can learn new ways to impress their guests at a charity gift fair on Friday, November 4.

The American Women of Berkshire and Surrey (AWBS) Club is hosting its 28th annual Holiday Craft and Gift Fair at Ascot Racecourse and visitors will be able to learn how to cook up festive treats from deli owner Susan Hansen.

The Captivating Canap�s demonstration by the owner of Hansen's Deli in Sunninghill High Street is just one of the attractions at the fair, which is AWBS's most prominent fundraising event with all funds being distributed to local charities across Berkshire and Surrey through grants.

Charities that have benefited in the past include Sebastian's Action Trust, which has received �27,000 over the past four years. Ms Hansen said she was looking forward to showing her canap�s at the historic venue and added: "Ascot's stunning Pavilion ballroom has attracted some of the best exhibitors from prestigious events like the Country Living Fairs, the Chelsea Flower Show and Crufts. I'm really excited to join those exhibitors and other talented local artists and craftspeople."

Ms Hansen gave a preview to her canap� showcase by sharing her recipes with Rebecca Wood, AWBS fair treasurer, on Thursday last week.

Ms Hansen added: "Just as we are passionate about the quality of the ingredients we use and believe provenance and flavour really matters, we know that AWBS share our emphasis on quality."

Ms Wood hopes this focus on quality produce will help the AWBS set a new record in terms of funds raised. There will be more than 90 stalls selling Christmas gifts, decorations and craft on the day.

The fair will run from 9.30am-3pm on Friday, November 4 at Ascot Racecourse. Tickets are �2 and under 17s go free. Pick up tickets from Sebastian's Action Trust in Queens Road, Sunninghill and Twin Cheeks in the Ascot Business Park, Lyndhurst Road, South Ascot