Air display could be scaled back
GUERNSEY’S Air Display may have to be scaled back unless more funding is found.
The annual event is due to take place on Thursday 9 September but needs more financial support for a full show to take place.
The air display receives some States backing, but most money raised comes from corporate sponsorship, private pledges and the individual ‘Friends of’ programme.
Harry Dick-Cleland, from the Guernsey Air Display Foundation, said this year was particularly difficult for them.
‘Following a number of market consolidations and businesses having a very disruptive 18 months, a number of corporates have stepped back from supporting the display,’ he said.
‘The event is the ideal opportunity for businesses to align themselves with a world class brand in the RAF and the Red Arrows, and the opportunity to entertain their guests at Castle Cornet, one of the best locations in Guernsey to watch the display, is something truly unique.’
Foundation guardian Russell Clark said they were appealing to Guernsey’s corporate community as well as private individuals for additional financial support for the display.
‘The benefits to the island’s economy are multiple and it is also important to continue to educate our children on the history of the Battle of Britain and provide a legacy to the airmen and women who have given their lives defending Britain from the two World Wars through to the present day,’ he said.
‘The reality is that we can only have as many display teams as we can afford.'
The Red Arrows, a Lancaster and two Spitfires from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and an Army Wildcat helicopter have been confirmed and the rest of the display will be filled with civilian private display teams based on the funding available.
There are a number of ways for islanders to show support, with three levels of consortium membership, ranging from £2,000 to £3,000 as well as the opportunity to become a corporate friend for £675.
The individual ‘Friends of’ scheme costs £15 per person.
n Anyone wanting to support the display should call Natalie Davidson on 729229 or email natalie@black-vanilla.gg.
