Waterfront funds flood in (From Barry And District News)

Waterfront funds flood in

THE BARRY and District News was thrilled to be the official media sponsor of the Waterfront Weekender - and we are delighted to discover that not only was this year's the best ever, but that we raised over £400 for Ty Hafan Children's Hospice.

Held on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 September, the two days were filled with fun and entertainment held against the stunning setting of Barry's thriving Waterfront development.

With everything from live music to cooking and health and beauty demonstrations, it's little wonder that more than 20,000 visitors flocked to the town.

It was the event's third year and the massive increase in visitor numbers officially confirms that the Waterfront Weekender is hugely popular.

The staggering figure means nearly three times as many people came to savour the annual event than in the inaugural festival in 2002, when 7,000 people arrived.

And the News collected a fantastic £427 for Ty Hafan Children's Hospice through sales of the colourful and attractive programme.

Thanks to our generous advertisers in the A5 glossy magazine, it was printed free of charge by us, allowing all proceeds to go to a worthwhile charity.

Organiser of the Festival, Cliff Nelson, said: "I am delighted that so much money was raised and would like to thank everyone for buying the programmes to aid this cause. Special thanks must go to the Barry and District News for printing the programme, and their support throughout the festival as the official media sponsor. And to Shining Star UK Ltd, the marketing company who promoted the Festival for not only arranging for this to happen with the News, but provided staff on the weekend of the festival to sell the programmes."

Mayor of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, Cllr Emlyn Williams added: "The Vale was pleased to be able to welcome the Tall Ship, Stavros Niarchos, and hope that she and her crew continue to visit. We are really pleased that programme raised over £400 for Ty Hafan. The support of the Barry public has been appreciated."