Shropshire's largest furniture retailer, Alan Ward, has been announced as the main sponsor of this year's World Championship Coracle Relay Race to be held in June at the Pengwern Boat Club in Shrewsbury.
"We are thrilled that Alan Ward is once again generously supporting us to make this fabulous event possible," said Rachel Cooper, Shropshire fundraising manager.
"Since the first race in 2007, the Coracle Race has raised over £100,000 for Macmillan in Shropshire, ensuring that vital cancer services in the county can continue to support all those affected by cancer."
Alan Ward marketing manager, Kathy Lesser, presented a cheque for £1500 to Miss Cooper.
Miss Lesser, said: "We have participated in the race since it started and always have a brilliant time competing against other companies whilst raising money for a great cause. We decided to headline sponsor the event this year as we want to ensure its future and the future of the amazing work of Macmillan in Shropshire."
In this Olympic year, Miss Lesser says the staff at Alan Ward are extremely keen to secure a medal of their own.
"We'll be entering a team or possibly two this year made up of people from throughout the company including sales, distribution and accounts. It's a great opportunity for getting people together and teambuilding. So far we have competed four times and have never made it past the semi-finals so we have a challenge ahead of us!" she said.
With refreshments and entertainment on offer for supporters and spectators the Coracle Race 2012 is set to be a truly win:win event.
Places are limited and filling up fast, so for further details and to download an entry form go to www.maccoracle.org.uk. Details can also be found on Facebook 'Macmillan Coracle World Championships'.
The first race begins at 4.30pm (practice starts at 2.30pm) at Pengwern Boat Club, opposite The Quarry in Shrewsbury. Entry is £100 per team, with an expectation that the team will raise at least a further £300 in sponsorship.
