THERE was a foretaste of future fun at a launch event for the Berwick St John Country Fayre last Tuesday.

Vintage vehicles including a Little Gem traction engine, a Marshall tractor, a Second World War jeep and an Austin Seven were displayed around the Cross in the centre of the village.

Gathered round were fair directors, supporters from the community, and representatives of their chosen charity, Salisbury District Hospital’s Stars Appeal, which will receive all the profits.

The event takes place every other year, two weeks after the Dorset Steam Fair, and features tractors and steam engines from all over Britain and Europe.

This year’s dates to remember are September 13 and 14.

Attractions include rural crafts, a military vehicle display, fairground rides, plants, trade stands and a tea tent. Camping is available.

Since its inception in 1992 the fair has raised £175,000 for local good causes. In 2012, it attracted 21,000 visitors over the two days, netting £27,000 for the Stars Appeal.

Entry is free but the organisers hope people will buy raffle tickets to support the appeal on the way in.

For more information or an entry form contact Richard Pocock or Louise Hall (Secretary) at Manor Farm, Berwick St John, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0EX , call 01747 828272 or email rjbpocock@btinternet.com or louise_t_hall@yahoo.co.uk.