CHARITIES have be-nefited from almost £18,000 thanks to flying fans who attended this year’s Bournemouth Air Festival.

Organisers again sold wristbands with the festival brochure, and representatives from the Jon Egging Trust, Hounds for Heroes and the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity have now picked up cheques for £5,965 each.

Air Festival director Jon Weaver said: “The Royal Navy, RAF and Army have been enormously supportive of this event since its launch more than five years ago.

“In a year when the forces have all had extremely heavy commitments with the Diamond Jubilee and Olympics, we’re enormously grateful for their commitment.

“We’re thrilled with the amount raised and it’s really encouraging to see such strong support and generosity from local people. It’s great that the town is able to give something back.”

The organisers have also confirmed that the three nominated charities chosen this year will be supported in 2013.

The Royal Navy’s Commodore Jamie Miller said: “I know I speak on behalf of all three charities in thanking the people of Bournemouth for their support. The amount raised is fantastic and will help give a better quality of life to serving and former military personnel.

“Bournemouth Air Festival is always a hugely popular event with all three armed forces, not least because of its maritime setting and the festival has grown into a real annual highlight. We’re very grateful to everyone who has contributed.”

Allen Parton, vice chairman and founder of the charity Hounds for Heroes, added: “The important message this donation sends out to the 900,000 injured, disabled and traumatised service men and women – plus those currently serving on the front lines – is that folk care. Job well done, Bournemouth.”

The 40 members of the air festival patrons scheme also contributed £400 towards the total raised.