A family-friendly festival is in desperate need of donations to keep it going as it is affected by the cost of living crisis.
MappFest takes place across two days featuring free music and fun on Malvern Link Common every summer.
It started in 2009 as a garden party and now raises thousands of pounds a year for Worcestershire charities.
But rising costs are threatening the festival’s future - and founder Andy Mapp has come close to cancelling this year’s event.
The final straw was a £500 bill for the road closures needed to host the festival in such a central location.
“The saddest thing in the world would be if it disappeared,” said Julie-Anne Goode, who helps to run MappFest.
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“It is one of the only festivals that is free and family-friendly. A lot of people would miss it - but we really need help.
“The work that goes into organising the festival is complex as we have to take into account regulations that keep members of the public safe.
Cost of putting on MappFest has increased
“This year is particularly difficult as due to inflation and the cost of living, prices to set up the festival have increased to the point that Andy was almost going to have to cancel the event.”
Instead, a fundraising page has been set up and organisers are asking any businesses that would be interested in sponsoring the festival to get in touch.
“We are asking if anyone can spare a little bit of money to donate, please could they go to the GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/5127c11f,” she said.
“Any small amount will help and it means that MappFest can continue to bring some happiness to the community in Great Malvern.”
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“We’re trying to keep it in a central place so the families of Malvern can continue to walk there. It’s also easy for people coming in from Worcester and Malvern Link Common is such a beautiful place.
“Whether it is sunny or raining, each year brings in a crowd. It would be sad to see the end of a festival that brings such enjoyment.”
Businesses interested in sponsoring MappFest can contact Julie-Anne Goode on 01905 963721.
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