Serco NorthLink Ferries Sponsorship Programme Assists Record Amount of Islanders

20th August 2014

Serco NorthLink Ferries is looking to build on its sponsorship programme offering having recently awarded £80,000 worth of ferry travel to local residents, clubs and event organisers.

The company's rolling yearly sponsorship programme is designed to support local community groups, events and individuals by providing discounted fares and travel vouchers, enabling them to travel between the mainland and the islands of Orkney and Shetland.

The last call for sponsorship in March saw £80,000 worth of discounted travel distributed to 120 groups and individuals - double the previous amount awarded.

One sponsorship recipient who has gone on to reach sporting success is much talked about Commonwealth Games medallist, Erraid Davies. The young athlete's Shetland swimming club, Delting Dolphins, have been receiving sponsorship from Serco NorthLink Ferries for a number of years, enabling members to travel to the mainland at a fraction of the cost in order to compete at a national or international level.

Lorraine Gifford, Head Coach at Delting Dolphins, said: "Here in the Northern Isles our athletes rely greatly upon ferry travel to the mainland to compete and, therefore, progress. The sponsorship provided by Serco NorthLink Ferries has been a fantastic helping hand to people like Erraid and I would encourage others to apply."

Stuart Garrett, Managing Director at Serco NorthLink Ferries, added: "Our sponsorship programme remains a key part of our wider commitment to the community. Keen to receive feedback in order to build upon its successes, we set up two local sponsorship panels. We recently held a meeting in Shetland, with one also scheduled for Orkney.

“Increasing our sponsorship capacity allows more clubs and individuals like Erraid to travel to and from the islands, boosting participation and also the potential for success. Once again, we look forward to working with islanders, allowing them to edge closer to their sporting goals."

An open evening will be held in the Clickimin, Lerwick on Wednesday, 3 September at 1830 for 1900 start. The aim of this is to communicate how the sponsorship programme is being continually reviewed and improved for the good of the Northern Isles communities. Attendees will be encouraged to voice their suggestions and travel requirements.

The current sponsorship call applies to the period 1October 2014 to 31 March 2015. For full terms and conditions or to download an application form please visit www.northlinkferries.co.uk/sponsorship The deadline for applications is Thursday, 11 September 2014.