AROUND 400 people supported Malmesbury’s title-winning football team on Saturday when they attended Vic Fest – one of a hat-trick of key events which help keep the riverside club afloat.

Attractions included a string of bands who gave their services for free along with a car boot sale, a fair, assorted stalls, a raffle and an open mic session during which youngsters, mums and dads showed off their talents.

Club secretary Julie Exton said they were delighted with the turnout at the club’s Flying Monk ground in Gloucester Road.

“It went really well. The bands were brilliant, everyone had a great day.”

Mrs Exton said the event’s importance couldn’t be overestimated. “It’s one of three really big events that we have to keep the club alive. Without them, no football club.”

Vic Fest is sandwiched between the two other major fundraisers – the May Spring Bank Holiday Beer, Cider and Sausage Festival and the Malmesbury Carnival Party.

Funds are urgently required to pay for items such as the £1,500 relaying of the skittles floor, which is breaking up.

A further £1,750 plus VAT is needed to install a new boiler– essential for muddy players to get a decent shower after the game.

“It’s something we’ve been meaning to do for a while. The showers are too intermittent, with a little bit of hot water before it goes cold,” she said.

The event, which raised an estimated £4,000, follows a successful season for the Vics who recently won the Wiltshire Premier League.