Bell Lawrie extend

Scottish Series sponsorship to continue beyond 2009

Leading investment manager, Bell Lawrie, has committed to sponsoring the Scottish Series for a further two years, until after the 2009 event. Scotland’s largest sailing regatta, which is organised by the Clyde Cruising Club, is set to benefit from an investment package worth over £100,000.

Bell Lawrie is a strong supporter of sport in Scotland. It also sponsors the under 15 and under 18 youth rugby competitions, the Scottish Schools Cups, which sees over 4,500 children taking part each year. As title sponsors of both competitions, Bell Lawrie has been able to support the drive to increase participation in both sports, whilst communicating with its target audiences.

The Scottish Series has thrived during Bell Lawrie’s eight year sponsorship, with record numbers of yachts expected take part this year. The event, which generates around £1 million each year for the local economy, has been running for over 30 years and attracts over 1,200 competitors to the picturesque West Coast village of Tarbert, over the May holiday weekend. The event is popular in the Scottish business community, with regular participants including Boyd Tunnock, Iain Graham and Keith Miller.

Commenting on the investment, Jamie Matheson, chairman of Bell Lawrie, said; "Through our partnership with the organisers, Clyde Cruising Club, we hope to broaden the appeal of sailing to encourage more youngsters to take it up, ensuring that Scotland continues to produce world class sailors like Shirley Robertson. In addition, we are pleased to be involved in this world renowned event which continues to provide valuable revenue to the local community in Tarbert.

"Our sponsorship of the Scottish Series continues to act as an effective brand building platform for all seven of Bell Lawrie’s offices, as well as a useful medium in which to develop relationships with our target audiences."

Jim McIlraith, commodore of Clyde Cruising Club, added: "The Scottish Series is a key event in the sailing calendar and we are delighted that Bell Lawrie has committed to sponsoring it for a further two years. Over the past eight years Bell Lawrie has cemented its position as sponsors, becoming synonymous with the event. The funding will not only help develop the event, but also benefit sailing across Scotland."