Balloon Fiesta: Bristol After Stroke’s “fun in the sun” brings in the crowds

Bristol’s Balloon Fiesta 2024 saw thousands of people enjoying the sights, sounds and sunny weather at one of the great local events of the year… and one of the very busiest stands there was the one run by the Bristol After Stroke team of staff and volunteers.

Over the three days, the hardworking team of 17 took it in turns to raise awareness of stroke and the work of BAS, and hundreds of people came to talk to us – as well as taking the opportunity to have some fun by guessing the name of our giant teddy bear and test out their darting prowess using their non-dominant hand.

A number of people also came on to tell us “thank you” for the help that we have given to them in the past.

The stand space was kindly provided by the organisers at a special charity rate, which meant that the money raised on the stand over the three days more than covered our costs. But critically, many more local people now know about our work.

“I really couldn’t believe just how busy we were”, said Amy Gill, BAS Service Support Officer, “from when we opened up on Friday morning right through to Sunday evening. 

“It’s always a challenge at big events to persuade passers-by to stop and chat, but everyone was keen to guess the name of our giant teddy or discover what it can be like to have to use your non-dominant hand, as many stroke-affected people have to do, by having a go at our darts competition. That gave us the chance to get across our messages.”

“We really hope to see everyone again next year,” adds Volunteer Co-ordinator Lucy Stockall, “and a huge thank you especially to all of our lovely volunteers whose energy and enthusiasm made it possible.”

And special congratulations to “Gemma”. You chose the winning name, which means that the newly-dubbed “Taylor” will now be coming to live with you. You will also be receiving a family pass, kindly donated by Avon Valley Railway.