Fundraising

The British Balloon Museum and Library hold Inflation Days so that members and the general public can view some of the collection. The envelopes are taken out of storage and inflated by "Friends" of the Museum. On the day there is a small charge for attending the event to cover costs and raise funds for the Museum.

Apart from the bi-annual inflation days, envelopes are taken by "Friends", to various meets around the country. Sometimes they are accompanied by a display of items from archive material.

An event worthy of mention happened on the 15th February 1997. The first indoor inflation day event happened at the famous Cardington No.1 Shed. In excess of 150 envelopes old and new inflated during the day. However the crowning glory was an Indoor Ballooning record, with 93 balloons inflated at the same time. A couple of balloons even managed a short free flight, along with a few model balloons.

Each year the British Balloon Museum & Library hold a luncheon, usually held in the Newbury area. The museum invites Friends of the Museum to the AGM, held prior to the luncheon, and then we gather for a meal, followed by a guest speaker.

Our illustrious president Robin Batchelor was auctioneer for the sale of a few selected items. Robin’s knack of rescuing old bank notes, no longer required by their owners is a useful talent that the Museum has put to gresat use. .A raffle is organised, and the prizes are donated by members of the council or friends of the museum.

The 2005 speaker was Mr. Terry Adamas. He talked to us with tales of his ballooning career which included that flight “off Ark Royal to Malta”, and his time in South Africa. The proceeds from the Luncheon, raised important funds for the museum, and a pleasant time was had by all.