EFFORTS to raise money for the 2020 edition of the Blackberry Fair have begun, with the event featured as one of the options in Tesco's 'Bags of Help' scheme.

The event has been run in the town for more than a decade, but increased costs and a decrease in available funding mean 2019 may have been the final running.

But the event has been selected as one of Tesco in Whitchurch's Bags of Help options, giving shoppers a chance to show what event they wish to support.

Each time a customer shops they will be offered a blue token at the checkout and be able to vote for the project they want the money to go to.

Every three months Tesco hand out grants, with the most popular receiving up to £2,000, with second and third receiving £1,000 and £500 respectively.

The move has caught Blackberry Fair organiser Steve Chapman by surprise, with him praising the "lucky" start to 2020.

"What a lucky start to 2020," he said. "If you'd like to help us make Blackberry Fair a reality this year.

"It took us by surprise but we're back in Tesco's Bags of Help. So get voting.

"We've a mountain of money to raise but last year's support showed what a great bunch of folk Whitchurch, her neighbours and friends really are.

"Big it up for another great festival with your little blue discs."