Birdman 2004 In Finance Crisis

Written 15/02/04

The future of Bognor's Birdman competition looks uncertain, following last years successful event, which was sponsored by Virgin Atlantic.

Arun Council leader Norman Dingemans says that it is unreasonable for Arun's ratepayers to fork out the estimated £65,000 the event would cost. His suggestion of £30,000 of sponsorship from local businesses appears to be the only way that the Birdman will survive.

Seafront Trader Shirley Hardy has already offered £500. She hopes that other small businesses will follow her example when approached by Arun.

Richard Wilby, Arun cabinet member for tourism was confident that Birdman 2004 could be saved. "Time after time it's been saved at the last minutes" he said.

An alternative suggestion from John Stride, head of Arun's leisure services was that the Birdman should be held every two years. This would help ensure that a large scale event could be held, which would live up to public expectations as well as the demands of the emergency services.

Do you think Arun should fully fund the Birdman? Have your say in the Bognor Forum.