A charity that specialises in supporting people with sight loss is calling for people to take part in a special parachute – but not for them – but for their teddy bears!
The Sheffield Royal Society For The Blind are holding a unique teddy bear parachute at Sheffield Wednesday’s annual family fun day, Owls in the Park, that will see hundreds of teddy bears jump off a crane to raise money for the charity.
The bears, which will be sponsored £5 by the owner, will be entered into the parachute jump and taken through various fun stages to replicate a real parachute including a departure lounge, flight number and check-in desk!
As well as bringing your own teddy bear to take part in the parachute people can also buy bears on the day to do the big jump!
The money raised from the event will go towards the charity’s ongoing work to provide opportunity, support, friendship and services to blind and partially sighted people in Sheffield. The charity support more than 3,300 visually impaired people in the city and more than 300 people access the services at the charity’s centre on Mappin Street.
Sue Coggin, Fundraising Manager at The Sheffield Royal Society For The Blind, said: “We’re so excited to host the teddy bear parachute at Owls in the Park! It’s a really different event that all the family can get involved in and raise money for our charity. Thanks again to Sheffield Wednesday for inviting us and we hope many people bring their bears and join in! Each bear will even receive their own bravery certificate!”
The day, which is hosted by Sheffield Wednesday and sponsored by the Brooklyn Steakhouse, is now in its third year and expected to attract thousands of people to the event.
Along with appearances from Wednesday players, other activities include live music, a funfair, catering and fun games at various stalls around the park. The Owls’ mascots, Ozzie and Barney, will also make a special appearance!
Supporters will have the opportunity to get the autographs of their heroes and pose for photos – together with buying Season Tickets and official Memberships, which will be on sale on the day.
The Sheffield Wednesday Community Programme, the club’s charitable arm, will host various taster sessions and activities which will include a World Cup themed football tournament, inflatable pitches and a range of community stalls.
As well as The Sheffield Royal Society for the Blind, local children’s hospice, Bluebell Wood - the Community Programme’s official charity partner - will be holding an official bucket collection in a bid to raise much-needed funds for the organisation.
In addition, Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity and Support Dogs will join the day with special activities and entertainment throughout what promises to be a fun-filled afternoon!
Owls in the Park 2014 is free to attend and takes place on Sunday 13 July, starting at 11.00am and finishing at 5:30pm.