ORGANISERS of the Middlewich Folk and Boat Festival are appealing to businesses to sponsor the event.

The festival, which celebrates its 25th year when it kicks off on Friday, June 19, will be entirely free this year to mark the special occasion.

Dave Thompson, events manager at Middlewich Town Council, has asked businesses in the area to help out with funding by donating £250, in return for promotion before, during and after the festival.

Dave said: “Our aim is to continue providing free, high quality family activities and entertainment- no mean feat with on-going austerity plans and rising costs.

“To help with the costs of staging the festival, I`ve set myself the task of raising much needed funds through the FAB25 Business Support Scheme.

“Local businesses are asked to donate £250. In return they will be featured in our marketing publicity before-during-after the festival, in press releases, on leaflets and posters, in the festival guide and website, including a dedicated sponsors listing.

“Sponsors will receive complimentary invites to the headline concerts with an exclusive merchandise and refreshments package.”

Businesses already confirmed are Cliff Dickenson & Sons, Melody Corporation, Rainbow Day Nursery, Stage Tech Ltd and Town Bridge Motors.

For more information, contact Dave on 01606 833434 or email events@middlewich.org.uk