CHILDLINE founder Esther Rantzen made a guest appearance at Five Rivers Leisure Centre to launch this year’s Salisbury Stamp Show on Friday.

The former presenter of BBC TV series That’s Life, received a cheque for £100,000 on behalf of Childline from stamp dealer Buckingham Covers.

She said: “It’s absolutely lovely to be here.

“I’m always fascinated by worlds I don’t have a personal knowledge of, including stamp collecting. “I’m even more thrilled to have received such a generous donation, which will make such a difference to children’s lives.”

Rantzen also signed copies of the fair’s official souvenir covers to raise more funds for the charity.

Throughout the opening day, collectors flocked through the doors to see the variety of stamps on offer.

Joint organiser Tony Hender, of Arun Stamps, is hoping the show will be held each year.

“There has been so much interest already shown,” he said. “Dealers came from across the country, and there is a significant need for the two-day event.

“It’s the biggest stamp show in the south of England, and based on today’s popularity we will hopefully have another show next year.”