Visitors flock to Berwick St John Country Fayre

Thousands of visitors flocked to Berwick St John Country Fayre for a packed weekend of fun activities in aid of the Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity.

The fayre took place over two days, Saturday, September 14th, and Sunday, September 15th, and featured various activities, including displays of steam engines, vintage tractors, heavy horses, and classic cars, a dog show, rural crafts, fairground rides, music, and more. Southern Counties Auctioneers also held a live auction. Ahead of the main fayre event, visitors enjoyed an evening of live music on Friday (September 13th).

The biennial event is run by a dedicated committee of volunteers, with the entire local community and village residents getting involved.

Show Secretary Louise Hall said: “We were delighted to see so many people at Berwick St John Country Fayre. The sun was shining and there was a brilliant atmosphere over the weekend. Once again, we have been overwhelmed by the support of local people and businesses who have helped us not just financially but also provided equipment and volunteered their time, ensuring this year’s event was such a huge success. We are so proud to support the Stars Appeal and want to thank everyone who gave so generously.”

Money raised will go towards the £1million the Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity, aims to raise this year to fund new equipment, enhancements to buildings, and ongoing projects supporting patients across Salisbury Hospital including the Stars Appeal Wi-Fi, hospital chaplaincy, support for patients with cancer and the Stars Appeal Play Assistant on Sarum Children’s Ward.

Amongst the projects the charity is fundraising for this year are 36 ‘by your side’ sleeper chairs, costing £50,000, so that vulnerable patients and those at the end of their lives can have a loved one stay by their side in comfort.

Dave Cates of the Stars Appeal added: “It is fantastic to be part of this unique community event that brings so much joy to the many thousands of people that attend. We are so grateful to the organising committee and all the other volunteers whose tireless work makes this incredible event possible. We also want to thank everyone who attended and gave so generously. The money raised will change lives by helping to fund Stars Appeal projects across the Hospital, benefitting patients, their loved ones and the NHS staff who care for them.”

The total raised from the event is still being counted and will be announced later in the year at a special presentation.