Visitors attending this year's Balloon Fiesta will have the opportunity to support two important charitable causes while enjoying one of Telford's most anticipated summer events.

The event's primary charity partnership is with the Lingen Davies Sunflower Appeal, the chosen charity of the Mayor of Telford & Wrekin Council. Throughout the Balloon Fiesta weekend, visitors will be able to support the appeal through a new reusable cup scheme being introduced across the event.

For just £2, visitors can exchange reusable cups throughout the event, helping to reduce single-use plastic waste while also raising money for the Lingen Davies Sunflower Appeal.

We are encouraging all visitors to return their cups for re-use into the sunflower baskets, for every cup returned a contribution will go to support the charity's work to help grow cancer services across our region with the development of the new cancer centre at Princess Royal Hospital in Telford.

The initiative reflects the Balloon Fiesta's commitment to both supporting local charities and making the event as environmentally sustainable as possible. Telford Book Club will also be present donating funds raised to Lingen Davies.

A second charity being highlighted during the event is Mr Motivator's Bed Bank, a campaign raising awareness of bed poverty across the UK.

Mr Motivator, who will be appearing at the sold-out Night Glow on Friday evening, is using his platform to shine a light on the hidden issue affecting nearly one million children who do not have a bed of their own. The Bed Bank works with local charities and community groups to help provide beds and bedding to families in need, ensuring children have a safe and comfortable place to sleep and the best possible start in life.

The Balloon Fiesta takes place from 28 to 30 August, with the sold-out Night Glow on Friday evening followed by two days of free family entertainment, spectacular balloon displays and activities in Telford Town Park. Find out more on the Telford Theatre website.