THE campaign to raise £750,000 for a new breast cancer unit at Salisbury District Hospital got off to a flying start with the Berwick St John Country Fayre this weekend.

Around 20,000 people attended the show which raised £27,000 for the Stars Appeal’s campaign to fund a purpose built breast care unit benefitting thousands of local women every year.

The action packed event took place over two days and included displays of steam engines, heavy horses, live music, rural crafts and horticulture.

Visitors also enjoyed tractor pulling demonstrations, military vehicles, trade stands, local refreshments and beers, and terrier racing.

Since it was founded in 1992, the biennial country fayre has raised thousands of pounds for charities including Wiltshire Air Ambulance, Naomi House and Clic Sergeant.

This year organisers chose to support the Stars Appeal and its new campaign, launched in the Journal last week.

“It was a fantastic event and we are so grateful to the directors, organisers and volunteers from the Berwick St John Country Fayre,” said director of the Stars Appeal, Dave Cates.

“It was a great way to raise awareness of the Breast Cancer Unit Campaign and a fantastic platform for the appeal.”