Belmont Festival raises record amount (From Sutton Guardian)

Belmont Festival raises record amount

12:41pm Friday 23rd July 2010 in News

The first Belmont Festival in over 20 years is set to raise a record-breaking amount of money for charity.

More than 5,000 people attended the event on Sunday July 18, one of the last events in the London borough of Sutton’s Take Part Take Pride calendar.

Organisers say they have already raised £12,000, with all funds going to the Royal Marsden Cancer Campaign and their £15 million appeal to build Europe’s leading children’s and young persons centre in Sutton.

Peter Mattey, chairman of Belmont Festival and Belmont & South Cheam residents association, said: “I just want to thank everyone for making it such an amazing day. Seeing so many local people having fun, donating their money to a local charity, really brings home the message of community spirit.”

The event kicked off with the Short Stepperz wowing the crowds, which included Sutton Mayor Councillor Margaret Court, with a Michael Jackson medley.

Entertainment also included shows from the Shimmy Sisters, Gaz Lewars, The Avenue school choir and the London Snow Herons. The children were kept amused with regular Punch & Judy shows, magicians, and even Buzz Lightyear made an appearance The festival proved such a hit that more than 1,000 burgers were sold.

Amanda Heaton, community fundraising and development manager at the Royal Marsden Cancer Campaign, said: “When I had to queue to walk down Station Road, I knew the day was a success. So many people have given up so much time to make today happen, everyone is so pleased their hard work paid off.”