Cadet racing in Plymouth Sound. Credit: Paul Gibbins Photography
Associated British Ports (ABP), the UK’s leading ports group, is delighted to announce its sponsorship of two major events taking place in Plymouth this summer: the British Firework Championships and the World Cadet Championships.
This year’s British Firework Championships, which will be held on August 14-15, promises a spectacular display as the skies over Plymouth Hoe light up as the UK’s leading firework display companies battle it out to be crowned champion. ABP is excited to partner with this prestigious event, now in its 27th year, which is renowned for drawing large crowds and creating unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike. This year’s event will be supporting Charity Partner, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), which is celebrating its remarkable 200-year anniversary of saving lives at sea.
In addition to supporting this iconic event for Plymouth, ABP is also proud to be announced as the headline sponsor of the World Cadet Championships, which kick off this weekend and run until Friday 9 August. This international sailing competition, held by The UK Cadet Class Association, and hosted by Plymouth Youth Sailing and Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre, will see over 200 of the world’s best young sailors competing in Plymouth Sound for the chance of being crowned World Cadet champion.
Youngsters take part in a series of intense races across the week against the stunning backdrop of Plymouth Hoe and the Barbican as well as enjoying all the city has to offer with a range of activities including local beach clean ups, a trip to the National Marine Aquarium and for the accompanying adults, a Plymouth Gin Tasting experience.
Both events are sure to further cementing the city’s reputation as a world-class sailing destination, enhance the city’s vibrant tourism sector and celebrate its rich maritime heritage.
Ashley Curnow, Divisional Port Manager for Wales and the Southwest said: “ABP is thrilled to support events like the British Firework Championships and the World Cadet Championships, which showcase the city’s vibrant culture and attract visitors from around the globe.
“As proud owners and operators of Millbay Docks, ABP is cementing its long-term commitment to Plymouth through undertaking strategic infrastructure developments, which aim to future-proof facilities at the docks for years to come.”
The redevelopment works, currently underway at Millbay Docks will increase the port’s ability to handle general cargo and containers, and support a state-of-the-art Passenger Boarding Bridge for the ferry and cruise market. Millbay Docks play a pivotal role in the UK economy, contributing over £93 million and handling around 80,000 tonnes of cargo per year. These transformative developments, including £1.3million of Freeport seed capital funding, will ensure the continuation of this important work, alongside ABP’s and the city’s ambition to increase global trade.
