The John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF) held their VIP Hospitality Day at the Bournemouth Air Festival for the seventh year running and it was a huge success raising an incredible £13,800 for the charity.
As if by divine intervention the heavy rain stopped just in time for the guests to enjoy a fantastic flying programme which included the final Bournemouth flight of the iconic Vulcan. The JTYAF was privileged to see the Vulcan to the Sky Team, Bournemouth together with founder and chief executive, Dr Robert Pleming, among their guests for this poignant finale.
The exclusive VIP Hospitality Marquee is situated on the beach right at the epicentre of the air and ground displays, so with the best seats in town, superb food and plenty of sunshine it was certainly a day to remember.
The JTYAF would like to extend their thanks to all the guests and supporters for their kindness and generosity. They received a wonderful selection of prints, paintings and visits, which included an overnight stay at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines and a visit to Heathrow’s Control Tower. These prizes were donated by local organisations and individuals and formed the basis of a silent auction and raffle which raised over £7,500 alone.
A team of volunteers from Barclays worked extremely hard at the event, meeting and greeting, selling raffle tickets and organising the silent auction. Spokesperson for the charity, Linda Thornton said, “Thanks must go to Di Trott, Liz Marsh, Nina Selvey, and Lesley O’Brien for their continued support and also Barclays for their generous matched funding scheme which makes a huge difference to the total amount raised on the day.
“The guests were delighted to have the opportunity to meet some of the display teams who took valuable time out of their busy schedules to visit the marquee. A special thank you must go to to the Tigers Freefall Parachute Display Team who have been great supporters of the charity this year.
“This event was the charity’s most successful so far and they are extremely grateful to the BAF Hospitality Team and Bournemouth Tourism for this great opportunity. The funds raised will make a massive difference to the opportunities that can be provided for local young people.”
To find out more about the JTYAF please visit their website at www.jtyaf.org
