The 21st Bermuda Sand Sculpture competition is in jeopardy, after the Bermuda Government pulled its funding for the popular annual event.

Organiser Nicky Gurret is now appealing for a new sponsor to ensure that the contest — scheduled for Saturday, September 3, at Horseshoe Bay — goes ahead.

“We have three months to find a new sponsor. Without one, it would be very difficult for the committee to proceed,” Ms Gurret said.

The competition, in which entrants create ornate artworks from sand, was the brainchild of the Institute of Bermuda Architects more than two decades ago.

It has since become a fixture in the island’s summertime calendar.

Last year’s event drew 100 participants and several thousand spectators to the beach in Southampton.

In January, Ms Gurret contacted the Department of Youth, Sport and Recreation to request its sponsorship for a fourth consecutive year.

The requested $2,400 cash injection would have gone towards marketing, plus refreshments and cash prizes on the day.

However, the department did not reply to her multiple e-mails asking for clarification on the matter.

Finally, at the end of May, Ms Gurret received a letter in the post, informing her that no funds would be made available for the 2016 competition.

• Anyone who would like to help sponsor the 21st Bermuda Sand Sculpture competition should e-mail gurret@northrock.bm