Universal set to sponsor this year's Bedford River Festival - along with Gallagher Developments

Universal Destinations & Experiences, which is building a world-class theme park a stone’s throw away, said it was delighted to get involved.

The River Festival will take place over the weekend of July 18 and 19, and will be packed with events for all the family. It’s one of the largest free community events in the country, covering a 107-acre site alongside the River Great Ouse in the town centre.

Gidon Freeman, vice-president external affairs at Universal Destinations & Experiences, said: “We’re delighted to sponsor this year’s Bedford River Festival. Our proposed project will be transformational for Bedford and we want to embed ourselves in the local community. This is a fantastic event which we know is so enjoyed locally.”

Bedford’s mayor Tom Wootton said: “Our beloved River Festival is a part of what makes our county town so great – and soon Universal will be too.

“Just like Gallagher Developments, they have a commitment to embracing our town, our borough, and our community. And they also love to have fun – and I know there will be plenty to enjoy at this year’s River Festival!

“With Universal and Gallagher on board, I predict this will be the most fun River Festival to date!”

Meanwhile, Gallagher Developments is a strategic land promoter with experience dating back over 50 years and, as a master developer, has delivered thousands of homes, employment land, schools, and community facilities across Bedfordshire.

A spokesperson for the company said: “We are pleased to once again be able to support the delivery of Bedford’s River Festival this year, with a fantastic weekend of festivities for the whole family to enjoy. The Council has worked tirelessly in recent years to secure and deliver significant investment in the town centre and its surroundings. The river festival provides a great opportunity for local families and communities to celebrate everything that makes Bedford such a vibrant place to live, work and visit.”

Visitors from across teh country are expected to descend on Bedford for the event to enjoy entertainment both on and off the water.

Highlights include the Dragon Boat Races and Raft Races where teams race each other along the Embankment, the Water Sports Arena, boat parades, fun fair and rides, arts and culture, along with and live music and other entertainers.

You can also enjoy the various food and drink and other stalls.

Other sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information visit www.bedford.gov.uk/riverfestival or contact [email protected]