John Merricks Sailing Trust signs up first corporate partner
by JMST 6 May 2005 13:17 BST
Cambridge Garage has reinforced its support of the local community by becoming the first corporate partner of The John Merricks Sailing Trust.
Set up in memory of 1996 Olympic 470 Silver medallist John Merricks, who died tragically in 1997, the trust supports young sailors in financial need.
Victoria Stringer, managing director of Cambridge Garage in Portsmouth, said she was delighted to be involved with such a vibrant charity which helps so many budding young sailors.
"We are keen supporters of sailing initiatives in the region and the Trust has such an enthusiasm to help youngsters that we feel honoured to be the first corporate partner,'' said Victoria who is herself a keen sailor.
She has twice sailed across the Atlantic in the Arc Race, competed in the 2003 Fastnet Race and last year took part in the Newport Rhode Island to Bermuda Race.
"In addition to a keen interest in the sport, our dealership in Portsmouth puts us in the heart of the South's sailing community and working with the Trust enables us to play an even larger part in the region we serve."
As Hampshire's longest established Volvo dealership Cambridge Garage has a sales and service facility in Havant together with an aftersales operation in Petersfield.
Suzy Hamel from the John Merricks Sailing Trust said that support from the local business community was crucial for the continued success of the fund which has already awarded more than £70,000 to individuals or projects which further youth sailing.
"This partnership with Cambridge Garage adds tremendous value to the Trust and their endorsement offers a great benefit in our goal to support youth sailing in the UK," she said.
"Cambridge Garage will support the Trust at some of our high profile events and help to maximise publicity for the Trust's charitable work. Its donation provides the Trust with the means to award more grants to deserving applicants."
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