Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Gently fold in the halved cherries.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.