Berwick St John Country Fayre's Road Run Raises £12,600 for Stars Appeal

Salisbury District Hospital's charity, the Stars Appeal, received a significant boost as the Berwick St John Country Fayre's Road Run event raised over £12,600. A special presentation was held at the hospital on Thursday, May 25, where representatives from the Country Fayre, including Chairman Richard Pocock and Bruce Waight, who organized the Road Run, presented a cheque to the charity's hospital ambassadors.

The Road Run, which took place on April 2, drew a large crowd, with participants showcasing an impressive array of tractors and 4x4 vehicles of various sizes and shapes. The event was a testament to the community's dedication and support for a good cause.

Expressing her gratitude, Louise Hall, the Secretary of the Berwick St John Country Fayre and a member of the Stars Appeal Fundraising Committee, lauded the charity's commitment to helping numerous individuals in practical ways at Salisbury District Hospital. She further commended the organizers and participants of the Road Run for their marvellous support.

The funds raised from the event will contribute to one of the Stars Appeal's projects for 2023—the purchase of an additional echocardiogram machine for the Cardiac Investigation Unit. An echocardiogram provides detailed images of a patient's heart, aiding in the diagnosis of abnormalities and heart-related conditions. By acquiring an extra machine, waiting times for patients seeking diagnosis will be significantly reduced.

The total cost of the echocardiogram machine is estimated at £142,000, with approximately £40,000 already collected through direct donations. Dr Tom Jackson, a Consultant Cardiologist and Stars Appeal Hospital Ambassador expressed his gratitude for the substantial donation, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on heart patients at Salisbury District Hospital. Dr Jackson extended his heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in organizing the Road Run event and the Berwick St John Country Fayre Committee for their continuous support in enhancing patient care.

The Berwick St John Country Fayre and its associated events have collectively raised over £320,000 for the Stars Appeal, reflecting the unwavering dedication of the community towards supporting their local hospital. The success of this fundraising effort reinforces the crucial role played by the Stars Appeal in providing essential resources and facilities for the hospital's patients.

Looking ahead, the next country fayre is scheduled to take place on September 14 and 15, 2024. To stay updated on the Fayre and other events, interested individuals can follow their Facebook page or visit www.berwickstjohncountryfayre.co.uk.

For more information about the Stars Appeal and their ongoing fundraising projects, please visit https://starsappeal.org/what-were-fundraising-for.