A STAGGERING £10,400 was raised for cancer support by a Christmas fair.

Sir Benjamin Slade opened up his home – Maunsel House, North Newton – for the event and was delighted with its success.

The fair has become an annual event as Sir Benjamin has given his home as the venue over the past few years and its popularity has grown, with the number of people attending growing significantly each year.

Running since 2008, in its first four years the fair raised £26,000 all together. By 2012 the day was raising £8,500 in one go.

More than 500 people attended last year’s event, and 50 stall holders offered a wide range of gifts and goodies.

Sir Benjamin believes the fair can grow even bigger next year.

He said: “We are going to lower the cost for people coming in and have more stalls. We will extend the marquee out to the back and maybe even get a bit of sponsorship from businesses.

“It’s a very good excuse to hold a party. We could easily make double the money next year.”

Sue Bridger, a Macmillian volunteer, organised the event and was there to present the cheque to Macmillian with Sir Benjamin.