Max SteventonBackup’s 2026 Village Fete raised £50,000 for the industry charity, matching the total raised at last year’s event.
The event took place on 9 July at Whilton Mill Karting Circuit, which hosted the Village Fete for the first time following its move to a new venue.
The fundraiser brought together people and companies from across the live events industry, with proceeds supporting Backup’s work providing financial assistance, mental health support and training to industry workers.
The event was sponsored by 5 Star Cases, Autograph, Catalyst Finance, DBpixelhouse, d&b audiotechnik, IPS, PLASA, Nexo, The Technical Department and Unusual Rigging.
The event featured the annual Flight Case Relay, Bake Off and Veg Off competitions, alongside a karting competition on Whilton Mill’s National Circuit. Team Purple won the Flight Case Relay, with Sam North, Steve Tunnicliffe, Tom Berry, Nick Robinson, Ian Caballero, Sam Gallacher and Jack Flavel taking the trophy.
5 Star Cases won Best Bake and Fete Game Champions, while Team IPS won Best Dressed Fete Goers. Robe’s David Catterall won Best Veg, while Creative Technology took the Top Guns title.
TAIT retained the karting title for a second consecutive year, with Stanley Donaldson recording the fastest lap.
“It was another wonderful day, and we’re delighted that everyone embraced the new venue, huge thanks to everyone who came along,” said Backup chair Lee Dennison. “I’m ever grateful to the companies and individuals who work tirelessly in the evenings and weekends, behind the scenes to make this day run smoothly, we simply couldn’t do it without them.
“Whether it’s access to mental health first aid training, providing a listening ear via the helpline, or delivering financial assistance when it is most needed, Backup is there for everyone in our industry and events like the Village Fete offer not just a chance to raise funds, they also raise awareness and give participants an opportunity to have some fun, too.”