Four lorry drivers who have watched loved ones battle cancer joined together to launch a charity truck fair.

The friends – Paul Salkeld, 38, Graeme Waugh, 47, Paul Bower, 46, and William Pringle, 31 – called in favours from across the trucking world, and were amazed with the response they received.

The Carlisle Charity Truck Fair took place on Sunday at the Borderway mart in Rosehill. The huge site was packed with more than 300 trucks, a funfair, games, raffles, arts and crafts and refreshments.

It attracted both truck enthusiasts and families looking for a fun day out, with proceeds going to Macmillan Cancer Support.

Paul Salkeld said he and Graeme first started talking about it because they’d both had family members affected.

The four friends came up with the idea for the fundraiser after meeting up in McDonald’s.

“It’s something that’s close to all our hearts. We are all truck drivers and fairly well known in the industry.

“We’ve done a lot of shows ourselves so we thought if we were going to do something that should be it,” said Paul.

“We decided to do it for Macmillan but really it’s a big thank you to everyone involved in cancer care. The nurses are unsung heroes. They have a real personal touch. To me that goes a long way.”

Graeme added: “My wife was diagnosed with cancer in 2014. Fortunately she’s in remission now. But what we went through made us appreciate what great care is out there. They are all fantastic.”

Friends across the trucking world were so keen to support the Cumbrians that some travelled 200 miles to take part, while others brought entire fleets. On display were lorries of all types, some featuring spectacular artwork, cranes, refuse wagons and cement mixers.

Ian Ridley, of Penrith-based Ian Ridley Transport, was there with several of his trucks and drivers. He said: “We just wanted to support the guys and help the charity. They’ve done really well. It’s a great show.”

Jason Davidson, who drives for Les Watson of Calthwaite, was also taking part, alongside son eight-year-old Jack.

He said: “We do the odd show but this was more to support the charity. We know the lads and it’s a great cause.”

One of the star guests on the day was John Templeton, who travelled from Scotland with his eye catching truck. It had been hand-painted, inside and out, with comic book characters.

The total raised has yet to be confirmed but Paul said: “We set off originally saying we would be happy with £5,000 but now I think we might even exceed that.”

He thanked all the exhibitors as well as all the businesses who had supported the event.