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Acclaimed jeweller launches Gipsy Moth IV regalia - May '05
Benzie of Cowes commissions new ‘collector’s items’ range to support the Gipsy Moth IV project
Benzie of Cowes, universally known as ‘The Yachtsmen’s Jeweller’ are the latest high profile organisation to get behind the Gipsy Moth IV project by commissioning an exclusive range of jewellery inspired by the famous yacht.
The range comprises cufflinks, brooches, pendants, earrings and tie pins with designs produced in both silver and gold. Each item of jewellery is numbered and production will be limited, making them future collectors’ items.
United Kingdom Sailing Academy (UKSA), the new custodians of Gipsy Moth IV, have established a restoration fund with a target of £1 million, which they believe is necessary not just to complete a desperately needed restoration and refit, but to relaunch the yacht and sail her around the world again to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Sir Francis Chichester’s epic 29,630 mile voyage. Proceeds from the sale of the jewellery are being donated to the Gipsy Moth IV project to help fund bursary places for young people participating in the global voyage.
Benzie of Cowes was founded in 1862 by Simon Benzie and until recently was still owned by his descendents. All Benzie jewellery is entirely hand made in their own workshops. With a long history and heritage the company has established an excellent reputation for the manufacture and retailing of bespoke, hand crafted jewels, principally with a nautical theme.
As well as the jewellery range, Benzie of Cowes are crafting a sterling silver model of Gipsy Moth IV which will be donated to the project for display at key Gipsy Moth IV events and ultimately the new Marine Heritage Centre planned for East Cowes. Will Souter, senior craftsman at Benzie of Cowes, is making the model. He comments, “It is a pleasure to work on such an iconic project; Sir Francis Chichester’s achievements on Gipsy Moth IV have inspired many great sailors and I hope that her second circumnavigation will inspire a new generation.”
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NOTE TO MEDIA
For further press information, please contact:
Anna Symcox
PR Manager & PA to the CEO
United Kingdom Sailing Academy
Tel: +44 (0) 1983 203016
Fax: +44 (0) 1983 295938
Mob: +44 (0) 7709 485674
Email: anna.symcox@uksa.org
Web: www.uksa.org |
Susan Preston Davis
Global Media Co-ordinator
Tel: +44 (0) 1489 789111
Mobile: + 44(0) 7771 732007
Email: susan@mpr.eclipse.co.uk |
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United Kingdom Sailing Academy
UKSA is recognised as the world's leading Sailing Academy. It is a registered charity and non - profit making organisation supported by the Lister Trust. Based in West Cowes on the Isle of Wight it has superb, modern facilities with residential accommodation and operates a fleet of over 300 craft. UKSA provide a wide range of courses aimed at adults, young people and the disabled. Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal is Patron to the Academy and Ellen MacArthur is their Ambassador.
Yachting Monthly
Gipsy Moth IV's second world voyage celebrates the 100th birthday of leading marine publication Yachting Monthly magazine and the 40th anniversary of Sir Francis' celebrated single-handed voyage.
Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight Economic Partnership is the economic development agency for the Isle of Wight. Their unique position allows them to bridge the gap between the public and private sectors and ensure a coordinated approach in improving the Island's economy.
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