THE annual pre-Christmas shopping event – the Rockbourne Fair – is at Salisbury Racecourse from now until Friday.

The fair, which opened this morning, is expected to attract thousands of people from Wiltshire, Hampshire, Dorset and beyond.

This year there are more than 90 stands, including many new stalls, selling exclusive and original goods across the various gift halls while in the food hall shoppers will be able to enjoy a wide selection of gourmet food and drink.

The opening times are: today (Wednesday): 10am-5pm, Thursday: 10am-7.30pm, Friday: 10am-3.30pm.

There's free parking and entry is £5 (£3 after 4pm on Thursday).

All proceeds from the Rockbourne Fair are donated to the Stars Appeal, and this year will be going towards the Breast Cancer Unit Campaign – to help raise £750,000 for a dedicated breast unit.

The fair will remain open until 7.30pm on the Thursday evening for late night shopping and there will be plenty of free parking.