Thousands flock to Shop the Rock!

Last week saw the return of the Rockbourne Fair, the annual Christmas Shopping event that raises funds for Salisbury District Hospital’s Stars Appeal charity.

The popular event, opened by Stars Appeal President, the Earl of Pembroke, was well attended by young and old alike - we even spotted local MP John Glen amongst the shoppers!

Having missed a year because of Covid in 2020, it seems as if there is a real appetite for this kind of ‘live’ event as Salisbury Racecourse was buzzing with excited, happy stallholders and visitors during the 3 days. For many, it is a social occasion, where friends meet to chat, shop and have lunch in the café.

There was an impressive array of stalls from Christmas decorations, candles and vintage homeware to gourmet food, fashion, toys and gadgets. Of the 100+ stalls, many are regulars like The Vintage Company, Turner Socks, The Potting Shed, Sparkles & Pearls for Girls and Truckle Cheese but there were plenty of newcomers to add a freshness to the offering. The Oxton Liqueur Company came from Nottinghamshire and Vintage Cashmere travelled all the way from Scotland! Local businesses like Regent Tailoring, Wiltshire Beekeepers, Gifts by Victoria Ferguson, Metal Menagerie, Emma Darlington and Chalkstream foods proved very popular and it was wonderful to see local artisans and makers also represented on the Wiltshire Makers stall.

All of Rockbourne Fair’s profits go to Stars Appeal and every day, work funded by the charity helps hundreds of patients at Salisbury District Hospital and supports the NHS staff who care for them. The Stars Appeal aims to raise over £1million each year to fund projects which offer direct, practical support to patients, their families and the Hospital’s staff.

“We really missed the Fair last year which makes it extra special to see the smiles on people’s faces as they meet again and enjoy the shopping and atmosphere. I am thrilled with the turnout - we are waiting to hear the final figure we have raised for Stars Appeal but it’s looking very good!” Said Bev Moulding, Chair of the Rockbourne Fair Committee. “We would like to thank all our amazing stallholders and of course each and every visitor for your continued support and making this years Fair such a huge success.”

info@rockbournefair.org.uk www.rockbournefair.org.uk