THE DEADLINE is looming for any groups and organisations seeking sponsorship from Wightlink during 2020.

Sports and arts groups working with young people are invited to apply for travel support as part of Wightlink’s 2020 Community Sponsorship Scheme.

Last year the ferry operator gave more than £800,000 of ferry travel to hundreds of clubs, groups and societies to help them attend mainland events and fixtures.

This is in addition to ad-hoc support for charities and its ongoing sponsorship of the IW Council Talented Athlete Scheme.

Applications for next year’s scheme are being accepted until November 30, with successful groups being notified in mid-December.

Ryde Rowing Club is one of the many sports clubs to benefit from the scheme.

Committee member Stephen Bull said: “Wightlink sponsorship is critical to Ryde Rowing Club as without this support our participation in mainland events would be severely restricted.

“This is particularly relevant to us as we transport our boats and equipment on a 30ft boat trailer and minibus.

“The sponsorship is especially helpful and important to our junior squad. Our young people aged between 12 and 18 make up the bulk of our competing athletes, the sponsorship allows them to compete on the mainland.”

David Pontin, of Platform One College of Music, said: “Our relationship with Wightlink is nearly 20 years old and is absolutely fantastic.

"Their support really helps to remove some of the barriers to taking young people off the Island and bringing guests to the Island to involve them in our curriculum."