BRACE yourself for a bang as British Sausage Appreciation Week hits Hampshire.

Sausage fans across the county are organising various activities this week to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust - the lead charity for this year's event.

The Rising Sun pub in Swanmore, Southampton is holding a Bangers and Mash evening on Wednesday with all proceeds going to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

Independent butchers across the region, including Hedge End Butchers of Hedge End, Morris Twell of Portchester and Norris and Knight of Ventor, Isle of Wight, will be supporting the event by holding promotions and tastings.

The Flemming Arms in Wide Lane, Southampton will be running a special sausage menu while supermarkets including Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury's and Somerfield will be running various promotions.

Phil Brady of the British Sausage Appreciation Society said: "There are so many people supporting British Sausage Appreciation Week around the south that it looks set to be the best ever.

"It's a great opportunity for people to enjoy some great sausages and celebrate a real national treasure."

For more information call the British Sausage Appreciation Society on 020 7861 3030.