CASH-strapped Bracknell Bees are calling on the local community to show their support over the festive period.
Bees host rivals Guildford Flames at The Hive this Saturday for a mouthwatering Boxing Day derby (6pm f/o).
And Bees general manager, Ben Beeching, hopes the local community comes out in force to cheer the team on.
He said: “The club has well documented financial difficulties as a result of the ice plant issues this season. We are calling on all fans and the community to back the team in these tough times.
“The message is simple. Bracknell has a Premier League ice hockey team it can be proud of. Let’s pack out The Hive and roar them on to victory against our local rivals.”
Saturday’s home fixture will also double-up as the club’s annual ‘Teddy Bear Toss,’ where spectators are encouraged to bring along cuddly toys to throw onto the ice.
The soft toys will then be given to local charities including Thames Hospice.
Other events include the interactive ‘Chuck-a-Duck’ and ‘Chuck-a-Puck’, a silent auction and the chance to win a brand new hot tub.
Bees also face two away games in the next week when they go to Basingstoke Bison this Sunday (5.30pm f/o) and Swindon Wildcats on Monday (5.45pm f/o).