The Teddy Parachute Jump will run from 9am to 1pm. Participants can book a time slot, bring a soft toy no larger than 40cm, and watch it glide down on a miniature parachute. Money raised will support the Mayor’s charities, Wiltshire Treehouse and The Harbour Project.
Entry is £10 per bear, with donations helping bereaved children and local refugees through the two organisations.
Ian Howard, Mayor’s Consort, said the event captures exactly what local fundraising should feel like.
“It is cheerful, a bit eccentric and brings people together for a good cause. Wiltshire Treehouse and The Harbour Project both do vital work in our community, and this is a fun way for families to support them. If a teddy parachute jump puts smiles on faces and raises money at the same time, that is a win for everyone.”
Organisers have issued a number of guidelines to keep the event running safely. Only soft toys up to 40cm will be allowed to take part. If a teddy is not suitable, it can be swapped for one of the event’s own bears from the “elite flight squad”. Outfits are permitted, although anything unsafe may need to be removed.
If severe weather affects the event, the Civic Offices will set a new date.
Families are being urged to book early to secure a slot for what is expected to be one of the town’s most unusual fundraising activities.
