ORGANISERS of the Bournemouth Air Festival are calling for support to keep the event the success that it is.

The 2011 Air Festival Patrons Scheme is designed to encourage businesses to lend their support alongside national sponsors such as Corona Extra, Mars and festival partners National Express.

Patrons’ ambassador Nigel Hedges, president of Bournemouth Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said; “Last year was a superb achievement for a first time scheme, but this year we want more. Together with my fellow ambassador Gina Mackin we want to hit the target of 80 patrons and £16,000.”

The scheme asks businesses to donate £200 plus VAT to support the Air Festival and a number of local businesses have already shown their support, including owner of the Hop Inn, Phil Audrain.

He is also canvassing other firms to follow suite – and has recruited six so far, aiming for another four.

Phil said: “It is of prime importance that this event continues year after year and I feel this is a chance for the trade to demonstrate their commitment to making this happen and give a bit back at the same time.

“Perhaps having such a prestigious free event will act as a catalyst for more events and help reinforce Bournemouth as a premier destination.”

Another Air Festival Patron is the DeVere Royal Bath Hotel, which is hosting the Royal Navy’s gala concert on Sunday August 21.

Businesses joining the scheme receive a pack containing a thank you letter, certificate, CD of Air Festival images for their use, official patron’s sticker, listing on the Air Festival website and in the souvenir brochure and an invite to an exclusive patrons’ drinks reception ahead of the start of the Air Festival held at fellow patrons The Highcliff Marriott Hotel.

More details at bournemouthair.co.uk.