Set your largest skillet over a medium-high heat on the stove.
Into the skillet, combine the sugar, sour cream, corn syrup, butter or margarine & salt.
Add a candy themomemter to the pan.
Cook to softball stage (or 112 degrees Celsius or 236 degrees F).
Remove the skillet from the heat source.
Allow the mixture to stand at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Beat in vanilla essence.
Add in chopped nuts & cherries.
Mix well.
Pour into a greased 8 inch (or 20 centimetre) square pan.
Chill for 15 minutes.
Cut into squares.
Refrigerate until set.