New partnership for Alex Bennett

More partners for doublehanded Round Britain campaign in the green Class 40

Professional yachtsman Alex Bennett and his co-skipper Malcolm Dickinson have signed new sponsors for their Shetland Round Britain and Ireland Race Class 40 campaign for 2010.

Three of the southwest’s biggest business names - Charles Stanley Stockbrokers, Clydesdale Bank and Michelmores Solicitors - are joining title sponsor Fujiifilm in backing the pair’s race entry and bid to raise £10,000 for local charity Hospiscare.

Speaking on behalf of the new corporate sponsors, Charles Stanley’s Head of Public Relations Magnus Wheatley, said: “Fujifilm remains the title sponsors with Clydesdale Bank, Michelmores and ourselves joining forces to support a west country crew which is sailing in a world renowned west country organized event in support of an important west country charity.”

Alex and Malcolm have adopted Hospiscare as their chosen charity for the RBI race this year. It is a Devon hospice which provides free-of-charge, high-quality care and dedicated support to people who are terminally ill. The charity is community based in Exeter, mid and east Devon and needs to raise over £4 million this year to continue providing care and support for patients and their families.

Alison Palfrey, Director of Fundraising at Hospiscare, said: “We are delighted that Alex and Malcolm have adopted Hospiscare as their charity for this high profile event. We shall shortly be announcing some imaginative ways of fund-raising for the general public by following Fujifilm’s progress around Britain and Ireland.”

Alex Bennett added: “The extra sponsorship from our corporate supporters is invaluable. Malcolm and I are very grateful for their support which we hope to repay both by helping to raise big money for Hospiscare and by winning this great race.”

The RBI race starts from Plymouth on 6 June 2010. Alex and Malcolm will be racing on board Alex’s well known, green, Class 40 yacht Fujifilm. To find out more about Alex and Malcolm’s campaign and the event itself here. Donations for Hospiscare can be made here.