Help save Army in the Park and raise money for charities that help families of wounded and fallen soldiers.
The event, in its fourth year, is at serious risk of being cancelled after it was marred by trouble last year which seems to have deterred sponsors.
With less than three months to go and financial support wavering, organiser Chris Beauchamp is extremely concerned and has made a plea to the community and potential sponsors to lend their support.
This year, as well as drumming up funds for Help for Heroes, the event will also support Scotties Little Soldiers, founded in 2010 to provide trips and activities to people coping without a loved one.
Mr Beauchamp, landlord of The Airman pub in Feltham, said: “The event is desperately seeking additional financial support through the means of sponsorship or investment to assist in the cost of running this annual event.
“At present only a quarter of what is needed has been raised and there is a possibility that the event will struggle to cover the costs in 2014 as it strives towards its target of a £10,000 donation to the Help for Heroes charity.
“There is a lot of interest in the event from people who want to come but it is at risk of not going ahead if sponsors do not come forward.”
The cost of putting on the event, which has recently been included on London’s Big List, is an estimated £10,000, of which half will go towards providing the highest security.
There has been some interest from a local bank, dating website and pub company, but no firm funding has been secured.
Mr Beauchamp is also appealing for suggestions for local grants for the charity fundraiser which is held on the field next to Bedfont Football and Social Club, on Hatton Road.
Discussions are being held with bands and acts about appearing but nothing will be confirmed until more money has been secured.
A larger military attendance including vehicles and personnel has been assured thanks to the support of the local barracks.
There will be a variety of food retailers and a bar, as well as face painting, an entertainer, fairground rides and more for children.
The Army in the Park team were due to meet the council and police yesterday (Thursday) for help.
Mr Beauchamp added: “We would be extremely interested to hear from anyone either individually or through business means who feel they can help assist us in contributing to the costs and supporting our team in delivering this much anticipated public event.”
Army in the Park is due to be held on Saturday, September 6, from noon to 8pm – closing three hours earlier than previous years to help prevent a repeat of trouble.
Read about past Army in the Park events.
Email Mr Beauchamp at Chris@armyinthepark.
