THE ATLANTIC CUP COMES TO NEWPORT
I have seen the fireworks at cowes week and they are indeed the best I have ever seen.
Following the news that Aberdeen Asset Management has extended its sponsorship of the world-famous regatta, Cowes Week, until 2015, the financial services company has also extended its support to include a significant proportion of the necessary funding to safeguard the traditional event fireworks display.
Commenting on the announcement, Martin Gilbert, CEO of Aberdeen Asset Management, said: “The fireworks display on the final Friday of Cowes Week is one of the regatta’s great traditions. Aberdeen Asset Management, in partnership with a range of financial groups and other organisations is proud to be playing a key role.”
The other organisations to have come forward with financial support for the fireworks so far include: Cowes Week Limited, Cowes Town Waterfront Trust, City AM newspaper, Artemis Investment Management, JLT Specialty Limited, the Island Sailing Club, the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club, the Royal London Yacht Club, the Royal Yacht Squadron, the Royal Ocean Racing Club, GKN, Red Funnel Ferries, Blue Funnel Ferries, and Solent and Wightline Cruises. Other donations are anticipated following pledges of support.
Stuart Quarrie, CEO of Cowes Week Limited said “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Aberdeen Asset Management and the other organisations involved in creating a solution for the fireworks. We are pleased to confirm that Cowes Week Limited is pledging to match any donations received from members of the public over the coming months”. Donations can be made here.
The fireworks display will be held on the final Friday of this year’s Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week, Friday 17th August.
Q&A’s
Does this now mean that there is a long-term solution in place to support the funding of the fireworks display?
A new body has been established to secure funds for the iconic fireworks display in the long term – Cowes Fireworks Committee. Although the display is financially secure for 2012, it is not guaranteedin future years although, with the creation of the new committee, there is a long-term plan in place for securing funds.
Who is the “Cowes Fireworks Committee”?
The founding members of the newly-formed Cowes Fireworks Committee are Cowes Town Waterfront Trust (a charitable organisation whose prime objective is to rejuvenate Cowes Waterfront), regatta organisers Cowes Week Limited, and the Isle of Wight Council. The chosen fireworks company will also be co-opted onto the Committee.
Do people still need to donate?
Yes. Donations from individuals and organisations who enjoy or benefit from the display are strongly encouraged, particularly from those who have previously pledged their support. Donations can be made securely online with paypal here or in person at the Regatta Centre in Cowes.
What if more money is raised than is needed?
Any surplus funds will provide a head-start for the 2013 display – this will be an important aspect of sustaining the display in the long-term.
I continue to have a soft spot in my heart for the Finn.
