September 2006 saw Byrne Group enter its second year as a gold sponsor of the Little Britain Challenge Cup in Cowes, Isle of Wight.

The annual sailing regatta, which is now in its 19th year and is the largest corporate yachting regatta in Europe, attracts the biggest UK gathering of senior figureheads from the construction and property industry.

Byrne Group, represented by Ellmer Construction, Byrne Bros. and Chorus Group, took part in the 4-day event, which saw 235 companies compete for the coveted Little Britain Challenge Trophy. The Group certainly made their presence in the competition felt, with Ellmer, Chorus and Byrne Bros. coming 5th, 6th and 7th in their respective racing classes.

The Little Britain Challenge Cup is not only an opportunity for great racing and networking but is more importantly a charity fund raiser. This year, a remarkable £135,000 was raised for the chosen event charities.

In support of the event, Byrne Group hosted a BBQ at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club. The evening was attended by over 300 guests, including crews from Bovis Lend Lease, Sir Robert McAlpine, Multiplex, Canary Wharf Contractors, Galliford Try and Gardiner & Theobald. Ellen MacArthur, whose charity, ‘The Ellen MacArthur Trust’, will benefit from funds raised at this year’s event, was also amongst the guests who attended.

Byrne Group will continue its support of the Little Britain Challenge Cup next year, and the crews, with continued training, hope to achieve even higher rankings in their racing classes.

Video highlights of the event and further information about the Little Britain Challenge Cup can be found at http://www.littlebritain.co.uk.

December 2006