SAILING for the Disabled has received a £5,000 boost after local technology company Wi-Manx signed up as a platinum member of the charity.

The charity was formed in 1984 and is run entirely by volunteers. It works with disabled people of all ages and has its own yacht – Pride of Mann II.

The yacht is based in Douglas's inner harbour and can seat up to 10 people. It also has special lifting equipment to enable wheelchair users to be lifted on and off the vessel.

As part of the sponsorship package the Wi-Manx logo will be displayed onboard the yacht.

Ed Whipp, the managing director of Wi-Manx, said: "Sailing for the Disabled is a fantastic initiative, a worthy cause which we are thrilled to be associated with.

"Everyone involved with the charity works tirelessly to give people with disabilities the opportunity to experience the thrill of sailing and it's a wonderful resource of which the Island can be very proud."

Marian Bolam, corporate coordinator for the Sailing for the Disabled Committee, said: "Corporate sponsorship is our main source of funds and without it we wouldn't be able to maintain Pride of Mann II or provide the services to all our clientele.

"We are indebted therefore to companies such as Wi-Manx whose generous support is much appreciated by everyone involved with the charity."  

For more information on Wi-Manx click here.