MIDDLE Wallop's Museum of Army Flying is to use its space and facilities to house more events which are unconnected with flying or the Army.

The move follows the tremendous success of the first Christmas Fair to be staged at the museum at the weekend. The event enabled people to shop for their Christmas presents from around 60 stalls under the wings of gliders and drew in so many people that the overflow car park had to be used.

"The idea was to raise funds for the Honeypot children's charity and also funds for the museum itself," said marketing officer Alison Brierly.

"As we have an enormous space and plenty of car parking it seemed the right thing to do and we are planning to hold an antique fair and vintage car event next year.

"We are branching out as we have a good location on a busy road where people can just drop in."

The wide range of stalls included Christmas gifts, ski-wear, books and even Christmas puddings made in aid of Barton Stacey church.

The Honeypot charity helped by the event aims to improve the quality of life for severely disadvantaged children and runs 'Honeypot House' which provides respite holidays in the New Forest.