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A last-minute rush of donations – from donors including hotels and local businesses – has "saved" the Jersey International Air Display for another year.
Event organiser Mike Higgins said his team was “eternally grateful” for the financial support from individuals and businesses who stepped forward in the wake of a last-minute public appeal launched to keep the display airborne.
Those behind the annual event had previously warned that it could be cancelled this year because of a “shortfall in financial support”, which prompted the launch of the fundraiser last month aiming to raise £50,000 by Friday 16 August.
The Air Display also received a £40,000 Government grant for 2024, which has been reduced in previous years from a peak of around £100,000.
Pictured: Jersey International Air Display organiser Mike Higgins. (James Jeune)
The fundraiser has now garnered over £30,000 in online donations, with "additional corporate and private sponsorship" coming in as late as Monday morning – days after the deadline set by organisers.
Mr Higgins said his team had "always believed that the Air Display was part of Jersey's DNA", adding: "The well-wishes and financial support we have received proves how much it is loved and valued by islanders."
Cuts to programming
However, some cuts have been made to the Air Display's programming – mostly due to funding issues.
The static displays – one at the Airport and one in Lower Park – won't be able to go ahead, and a planned STEM exhibition has had to be cut.
Organisers also said that a WWII bomber plane, the Avro Lancaster, which was due to take part in the display has been withdrawn.
This is because the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight has grounded its Spitfires and Hurricanes, and reduced the number of engine hours on the Avro Lancaster, after a squadron leader died in a Spitfire crash in May.
"Hope the Air Display never dies"
A number of the donations to keep the Air Display alive came from local businesses and hotels – including £1,000 from the Hotel de France, £1,000 from the Hotel de Normandie, and £2,000 from Voisins Department Store.
Enso Solutions, an IT network and security company, donated £150 and wrote: "Great event for all. It would be nice to see more government and seafront facing business support. More money, bigger line up and some more fast air!!"
The Grand Hotel donated an undisclosed amount and wrote: "The Grand Jersey Hotel & Spa is proud to support this amazing Jersey experience, wishing everybody involved the very best ."
Pictured: The RAF's Falcons over St Aubin's Bay in 2023. (Dave Ferguson)
KYC360, which makes software for industry clients, donated £1,000 and said they were "delighted to keep the Jersey Air Display 'in flight'".
The Lookout Café, whose First Tower location gives staff a direct view of the Air Display, was also among the donors.
The Garfield Bennett Trust Company, who donated £500, sent its wishes to the event and said: "Keep on flying for Jersey!"
Many other donations came from private individuals, who wrote of the "joy" and "boost to the economy" brought by the annual event.
Pictured top: The Patrouille de France, the French Air Force's demonstration team, are due to return to Jersey this year. (Dave Ferguson)
You can still donate to the Air Display on SportsGiving.
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