This year at the summer fete, we are introducing a token system instead of cash. There are a number of reasons for this decision and we have listed some of them below. 

At the fete all games stalls run by the PFA will be token only – each token will be worth 50p and most stalls will be 1 or 2 tokens per play. You will be able to make card payments for tokens, raffle tickets and refreshments and we will endeavour to have small cash floats on these stalls too. You will not be able to spend tokens on any third party stalls in attendance – they will accept cash or card. 

You can preorder tokens in advance (link to follow) and they will be given out in book bags the week before the fete. We will also be selling tokens on the day at the entrance. 

Why are we introducing tokens? 

• Easy to set children a budget and allow them to manage that budget themselves – even the younger ones who are not familiar with cash
• Children don’t have to carry cash
• Opens up more of the stalls to be run by year 6 students without them being responsible for large sums of cash
• Reduces the amount of cash on site which is a risk
• Reduces queues at stalls as the transaction is simple
• Tokens can be pre ordered
• You can set your budget and stick to it (or, obviously buy some more if you would like!)
• Organising cash floats for 20+ stalls is incredibly time intensive for PFA volunteers, not to mention the logistics of getting that to and from the fete and keeping it and the volunteers safe during this time. We have been alerted by our bank about the number of times people with large amounts of cash are being watched and targeted in Hornchurch (where we now need to go given the closure of the branches in Upminster). Added to which, most of the floats need to be coins which to be honest are so heavy! We have already broken 2 suitcases recently trying to transport the cash to and from the bank. 

If you don’t spend your tokens (we hope you will, there will be plenty to keep the children occupied!), we will be able to arrange a refund for you. Alternatively, because you will have already paid for the tokens, any ‘unspent’ ones will still go towards the total raised on the day so would be a welcome donation if you don’t get round to spending them. 

As always, we are grateful for your support. If you have any questions, please email hello@uspfa.co.uk