The 2024 Berwick St John Country Fayre has achieved a historic milestone, raising £100,000 for the Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity. Initially announced as £96,983.99 at a special presentation on 1st December at West Barn Lodge in Fovant, additional donations from nearly 300 attendees pushed the total to a record-breaking figure – the largest in the Fayre’s 32-year history.
Running every other year since 1992, the Fayre has consistently raised substantial funds for various causes, committing long-term support to the Stars Appeal in 2012. This year’s event, held on 14th and 15th September, attracted thousands of visitors and featured an array of activities from displays of steam engines, vintage tractors, heavy horses and classic cars as well as a dog show, rural crafts, fairground rides and entertainment.
Ahead of the main fayre event, visitors enjoyed an evening of live music on Friday, September 13th.
Fayre Secretary Louise Hall praised the community’s efforts: ‘We are blown away by the generosity and support received. Despite facing many challenges ahead of this year’s event, the entire team pulled together to deliver a brilliant show with a fantastic atmosphere. We are so grateful to everyone who supports us, not just financially, but also by providing services and equipment and by volunteering their time. We sincerely thank everyone who has worked so hard to make this possible.’
At the presentation event, patient ambassadors and families shared powerful testimonies about how Stars Appeal initiatives have transformed their care experiences.
Stars Appeal president, the Earl of Pembroke, said: ‘I congratulate everybody involved, and I deeply appreciate the incredible teamwork required to organise an event of this scale. The services provided by the Stars Appeal make a profound difference to the thousands of families who rely on them. They allow patients to be diagnosed faster, and with families at their side, recover quicker and return home sooner.’
Funds raised contribute to the charity’s £1 million annual target, supporting projects such as equipment upgrades and enhanced patient facilities.
The next Fayre will be 19th and 20th September 2026, with additional events planned for 2025.
berwickstjohncountryfayre.co.uk
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