'EVERY little helps' is the message coming from the hospital charity Share as the Ace of Hearts Appeal organisers take the opportunity to thank people for the latest round of donations.

In raising £370 for a new cardiac suite at Salisbury District Hospital, Peggy Knight's Britford home turned into the Venice of the north, as guests enjoyed an Italian-style lunch.

They were treated to a range of homemade lasagne, and puddings donated by Shipseys.

Julie Streeter, whose young son Martin was born with a heart disorder, raised about £700 from her stress-busting day at the King's Head and the Fountain in Whiteparish.

The Lions clubs of Devizes and Warminster have both got in on the act, donating £200 and £500 respectively.

Sally Peaty, director of fundraising for Share, said: "We are enormously grateful to people who have made donations large and small, highlighting the true community spirit we have here in Salisbury.

"As we start the summer push to make the halfway mark of our £1m appeal total, the key message for local people is that every little helps."

Share launched the Ace of Hearts Appeal to raise £1m for a new cardiac unit at the district hospital.

The £1m will pay for the capital costs of the suite. The NHS has agreed to match the funds by providing a further £1m over ten years for the running costs.

Share is encouraging the community to support Ace of Hearts Appeal by joining in. Contact the charity office on 01722 429005 to discuss fundraising ideas or to ask for a resource pack - or complete a response form and make a pledge to Share, c/o Salisbury District Hospital, Salisbury, Wilts SP2 8BJ.

Forthcoming events:

Wisewalk sponsored fun walk, Sunday, start 11am at Old Sarum. Contact: 01722 421422.

Wally wheelbarrow push, Bowerchalke to Salisbury District Hospital, Saturday July 19. Contact: 01722 780659.

Jumble sale, Radnor Hall, Bodenham, Wednesday July 23, 7pm. Contact: 01722 330757.

Village sale at the village hall, Ebbesbourne Wake, on Saturday July 26, 2pm. Contact: 01722 780366.

60s & 70s disco and live music, Staff Club, Salisbury District Hospital, Saturday July 26, 7.30pm. Tickets £5. Contact: 01722 324649.