A CROWDFUNDING page and a business club has been set up to raise money for this year's Hereford River Carnival.

The event on the banks of the River Wye is run entirely by volunteers and last year 12,000 visitors attended.

But to make it even better than previous years, the organisers are asking the people and businesses of the city and wider Herefordshire to buy a ‘share’ of the fun and ‘invest’ in the future of the carnival.

One of the organisers, Polly Ernest, said: "The carnival has been such a success because so many people give so much of their time, energy and services absolutely free.

"However, there are some things that only money can buy and we need funds to publicise and promote the event as well as to provide essentials such as security, stewards and insurance."

Cotswold Mini, Wye Valley Brewery, the Left Bank, Bulmers Cider, ABC Print, Oakwrights, RRA Architects and Harrison Clark Rickerbys have generously supported the event over the years, but organisers believe smaller businesses may like to contribute too.

The Business 100 Club asks businesses in the area to give £100 (or more if they want to) to join. If 100 join then around one third of the total carnival costs would be covered.

Membership of the club will see members get exclusive invites to networking events, reduced price tickets to carnival events and promotion for their businesses on the new website and via social media.

Individuals are also invited to give just £1 via the Crowdfunder (or more if they can afford it) to make sure that this community event takes place.

Polly added: "It would be great if this event which is put on by the people of Hereford for the people of Hereford was also funded by the people and small businesses of Hereford."

The Hereford River Carnival is at Bishops Meadow, King George V playing fields, Castle Green and the Left Bank on April 29 from 10am until 6pm. There is also a Mappa Mundi focused performance on the Friday night.

For more information on how to get involved in the business club or with any other query email info@rivercarnival.org or visit rivercarnival.org.

You can donate at crowdfunder.co.uk/hereford-river-carnival-1