Jersey air display at risk due to lack of funds

The show is scheduled to take place on 12 September

Time is running out to save a "significant" air display from cancellation, organisers have said.

The Jersey International Air Display, which has been part of the island's calendar for 72 years, is due to take place on 12 September.

However, organisers said the 2024 show could be cancelled if sufficient funds are not raised by 16 August.

Event organiser Mike Higgins has issued an appeal to the public for help, adding the display "is part of the DNA of our island community".

The display is watched in person and online by more than 50,000 people, and is the largest free event on the island.

Organisers have issued an appeal for help and said about £6,000 of its £50,000 target has so far been raised.

The display is funded by private sponsorship and a small government grant, organisers said.

Mr Higgins said the team welcomes the support of both the chief minister and the Ports of Jersey, but the annual grant has been restricted to £40,000 - £20,000 less than in 2023.

Mr Higgins said organisers view the grant as "an investment in the Jersey economy", adding a 2023 survey showed the display contributed about £1m to the island's economy from visitors alone.

'Significant island event'

"Unless additional funds can be raised we cannot cover the costs of this year's air display," he said.

In the event of a cancellation, Mr Higgins said funds will be rolled into the 2025 display.

"Not only is it a significant event in the Island’s calendar for local and visitors alike, but with its origins in the previous Battle of Britain Air Display it also remains a poignant reminder of the reasons behind our liberation, and our liberty," he said.

"It also remains a significant day for relevant charities to raise funds to care for our military veterans."