A MAJOR festive fundraising event in North Yorkshire won the backing of a well-known television personality.

Nick Hewer, the daily host of Channel 4’s Countdown and familiar face from the BBC's The Apprentice, visited the NSPCC Christmas Fair at Castle Howard which this year ran over three days.

Organisers hope that by extending the Fair over three days for the first time in its 11-year history, the event which ends today, Saturday, at 3pm will beat the £40,000 raised last year.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to support such a worthwhile cause as the NSPCC,” said Nick. “The money raised helps children who are abused and vulnerable across Yorkshire.”

Saturday day time tickets are £8 and include entry to the Fair and also the lakeside cafe, playground, gardens and The Courtyard (children under 13 are free of charge).

The fair, with 65 stalls this year, is the biggest fundraiser for the NSPCC in the North East.

Gifts sold range from toys to books, jewellery, gardening, men’s and ladies clothes, kitchen and homeware, to food and drink.

Income from ticket sales, sponsors and donations, raffle tickets, and 10 per cent of each stall holder’s takings go direct to the charity.