CHRISTMAS came early for the organisers of a festive fair which raised more than £40k to support soldiers, veterans and Army families.

This year's Early, Early Christmas Fair took place from September 26 to 27 in Tidworth had around 120 independent traders and welcomed more than 2,000 visitors.

Stalls offered unique presents, food and drink ideas, homewares and clothes. Each sale included a 10 per cent donation to the Army Benevolent Fund.

Director of customer liaison John Hiorns, from General Dynamics Mission Systems, opened the fair since the company is its largest sponsor.

Organiser Caroline Cary thanked the volunteers and sponsors who made the event possible.

Salisbury Journal: Caroline Cary (left) said the event is important because of the strong Army presence in Wiltshire.Caroline Cary (left) said the event is important because of the strong Army presence in Wiltshire. (Image: Early Early Christmas Fair)

She said: "This year’s fair was all about community, and the British Army family is a nationwide one, which is why so many people travel far and wide each year to join in the fun.

"The event is also important for Wiltshire, where the Army presence is huge, so we always value the support we get year from local military communities."

Among the notable guests in attendance were Sarah Rose Troughton, Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire and President of ABF The Army Benevolent Fund Wiltshire, who hosted the evening reception, and Pradeep Bhardwaj, High Sheriff of Wiltshire.

Mrs Troughton said the fair "exemplifies the incredible synergy between local businesses, sponsors and the Army community".

She added: "It was a great pleasure attending the first evening of the Fair, and I came home carrying a new large woven basket full of incredibly nice Christmas presents."