For the first time ever, Faversham Hop Festival will be crowdfunding to raise cash for the town’s biggest weekend of the year.

Last week’s event saw more than 45,000 people pour into Faversham for the free two-day event which showcases a host of local musical talent, ale from Britain’s oldest brewery and masses of entertainment.

In its 26th year, the festival cost around £60,000 and was run solely by volunteers.

But for next year’s event, to be held on September 3 and September 4, they are looking for donations from the public.

Director David Thompson says that it relies on ‘additional funding in order to continue improving year on year’.

He said: ”The Hop Festival is one of the largest free festivals in the UK and encourages many visitors to the town.

“As it continues to expand, Faversham is running out of space over the weekend. The new area needs to succeed in order to allow the festival to continue and improve.

“If enough funds are received, we do not envisage any major challenges as there are many performers eager to participate.

“The area was used to a smaller scale this year and a few lessons have been learned, meaning we are confident we will be able to deliver in the future, providing sufficient funds are raised.”

The crowdfunding, which has been launched on site Kickstarter is looking to raise £5,000 in 30 days so they do not have to rely on programme sales.

As an added bonus, anyone donating will receive a small benefit, other than securing the future of the festival:

If you pledge £1 or more, you’ll receive a shout out on Facebook, £2 and you will receive a Hop Festival wristband, £5 and you’ll get an official programme with your wristband, £10 and you will become a member of Friends of Faversham, receive a programme, wristband and other offers on the website.

Those pledging £20 will receive a programme, wristband and Hop Festival T-shirt and paying £50 will give you a complimentary brewery tour for two people at Shepherd Neame.

To donate to the Hop Festival, click here.