![]() The organisers of the Fairfax & Favor Rockingham International Horse Trials are delighted with the support they have received from sponsors ahead of this year's event, which runs from 18-20 May. As previously announced, luxury footwear and accessories brand Fairfax & Favor has signed a deal to take title sponsorship of the event. This new relationship is backed up by further support from Robert Loomes & Co, Berrys and Spirit Hyundai Corby. Robert Loomes & Co is the event's Official Timekeeper, and since 2014 has generously provided a hand made English watch as a prize for the Advanced Intermediate or Open Intermediate competitor who completes the cross country course closest to the optimum time. The traditional, extraordinary firm of watchmakers hand-produces elegant, limited edition watches, each one entirely manufactured in this country. Joining the Loomes team on its stand will be members of The Gurkha Welfare Trust (GWT). Last year three serving Ghurkhas reached the summit of Mount Everest, one of whom was wearing an exclusive Robert Loomes watch – which will be sold at auction later this year to raise vital funds for the Trust. “The event resonates with what we do,” explains Robert Loomes. “It's all about commitment, excellence and timing. Fairfax & Favor Rockingham International is a superb place to promote a great British product.” Spirit Hyundai Corby is increasing its profile at the event. The family owned and run showroom opened in the summer of 2015 as a sister site to Spirit Hyundai's long-established Northampton outlet. This year Spirit Hyundai Corby will be providing all the vehicles for the event officials. Spirit representatives will also be available to talk to existing and potential clients throughout the three days. Making up the quartet of major sponsors is Berrys, Chartered Surveyors and Valuers, Property and Business Consultants and Chartered Town Planners with offices across Northamptonshire, Shropshire, Cheshire and Herefordshire. Berrys first dipped a toe in the sponsorship water at Rockingham last season, and this year are planning a more significant presence, with a trade stand and increased hospitality arrangements. Whilst not an official sponsor, Rockingham International's official Charity this year is Home-Start Corby, a family support charity which works alongside children and families living across the Borough of Corby and surrounding villages. Volunteers regularly visit families in their own home and offer parents and their children befriending, a listening ear and lots of encouragement. They also offer support to families on trips and outings. The team at Home-Start Corby are planning fun activities for children across the weekend of the Horse Trials. On offer will be various craft activities such as upcycle planting (wellies, cans, buckets and bottles), a hobby horse race course, pebble painting, horse shoes, potato printing and ribbons. Castle owners James and Lizzie Saunders Watson are looking forward to welcoming these partners, saying: “It is very rewarding when sponsors return again and again, increasing their support for our event. We are indebted to them all for their support – and are delighted to be able to help promote the valuable work of Home-Start Corby at the same time.” Further information about Fairfax & Favor Rockingham International Horse Trials can be found at www.rockinghamcastlehorsetrials.com |