Construction industry regatta the Little Britain Challenge Cup held its annual charity cheque presentations at a reception in London last week.

Despite the economic downturn, and reduced numbers at the 2009 event, nearly £100k was raised for the event charities.  David Smith, the new Chairman of the event Committee said, “We started 2009 not knowing what the year would bring, but we couldn’t have hoped for a better event or the generosity of the entrants who helped boost our funds through the various fundraising activities. 

The end result meant we were able to continue to give significant amounts to our chosen charities.”

The reception, hosted by Kinnarps and Octagon Developments, brought together all ten charities that will benefit from the 2009 event.  These included the Jubilee Sailing Trust, the Ellen MacArthur Trust and representatives from Skandia Team GBR Paralympic Sailing Team.

Dame Ellen MacArthur at the reception said, “The LBCC has been supporting the trust for the past five years and their help has been invaluable in helping us realise many of our goals in offering support to young people suffering from cancer and other serious illnesses throughout the country.”

Other charities supported by the LBCC are the Cirdan Sailing Trust, Island Youth Water Activities Centre, St John Ambulance, Blind at Sea, Fishbourne Sailability Club, Cowes Sea Cadets and Toby Williamson via RYA Sailability.