THE ORGANISERS of Kendal Torchlight Carnival are inviting the local community to take part by becoming 'Torchbearers.'

To ensure Torchlight goes ahead each year the event requires volunteers, entrants, supporters, sponsors and partners.

Torchbearers will be those companies, organisations, groups and individuals who both see and appreciate the value that Torchlight brings and are willing to support everything it is about.

Craig Russell, the Torchlight Team Leader, said: “Local businesses and volunteers have always been the mainstay of Torchlight and we need those that can do to support the biggest annual event in Kendal.

“A total of around £20,000 needs to be raised from around 150 community-minded businesses in the area. Last year’s event generated £1.5 million pounds to the local economy. That’s a return of £54 from every £1 invested. Torchlight is a great investment and a proven boost to the local economy, as well as being great fun!”

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The Torchbearers will be contributing to all aspects of Kendal Torchlight, with particular focus on allowing the organising team to build up the art, entertainment and cultural content of the Friday Procession, Saturday Street Party and all other events that will be organised in the build-up and beyond.

Volunteers: There are a wide range of tasks that need to be completed by volunteers to enable the Torchlight to go ahead. Jobs vary from general admin and organising to fundraising and managing entrants.

Supporters: Coming from all over the local area, the supporters are individuals, groups or companies who have donated over £250 worth of money, goods or services.

Sponsors: As part of the Torchbearers programme the Torchlight Management Team has created a new sponsorship structure for 2017: Platinum from £2500, Gold from £1000, Silver from £750 or Bronze from £200. 

Entrants: If your group, school, company or organisation wants to enter the 2017 procession, now is the time to get in touch.

Partners: Torchlight works very closely with a range of partners such as the Town, District and County Council, as well as Local Police, Kendal BID, various Charity Partners and Lakeland Radio.

Special recognition will be given to partners, sponsors and supporters on the Torchlight website, social media channels and Torchlight programme – with Partners and Platinum sponsors featuring on most publicity throughout 2017.

Now in its 47th year, Kendal Torchlight is one of the highlights of the local calendar and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever.

During 2016 the first ever economic impact survey for Torchlight showed that the 2016 event contributed an estimated £1,535,678 to the local economy.

For more information about volunteering, contact Kendal Torchlight Team Leader Craig Russell at craig.russell@kendal-torchlight-carnival.co.uk or 07725817745.

Read Mr Russell's recent interview with the Gazette at http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/15158498.New_Kendal_Torchlight_Festival_leader_outlines_vision_for_breathing_new_life_into_annual_spectacle/