THE 'Save Our Country Show' campaign in Ramsbottom is stepping up a gear with a host of events planned to ensure the celebration goes ahead -- despite the Lottery commission having refused funding.

Yesterday organiser Linda De Ruijter met with Bury North MP David Chaytor at Ramsbottom Library to secure his backing with the rescue appeal for the Golden Jubilee event on June 3 in Nuttall Park.

Raffle tickets are being sold for a grand draw to be held at a fundraising dinner at Ramsbottom Cricket Club on May 11, when guest speaker will be Martin Henfield, presenter of BBC's North West Tonight news programme.

Prizes have been donated by local shopkeepers and include a celebration cake, vouchers for goods, meals out and wine.

Donations can be made to the Jubilee Fund at Ramsbottom Library.

Linda said: "Appeals are still being sent out, widening the net to include big companies in the Manchester area and local celebrities.

"I can't praise my library colleagues enough for their help and constant support."