This year’s Little Britain Challenge Cup, taking place on 11-14 September at Cowes, promises to be one of the best yet with 211 boat already signed up. Now in its 16th year, this event, organised by the construction industry for the construction industry, allows every one of the 3,000 participants – from MDs and architects to engineers and builders – to escape the world of breezeblocks and design boards for wellies and oilskins.

According to the organisers the regatta has two purposes: firstly to provide as much fun on and off the Solent as is humanly possible over a 72-hour period while retaining the true Corinthian spirit and secondly, to raise as much money for the chosen charities – Cirdan and Jubilee Sailing Trusts – as the participants deep and generous pockets will allow. Last year over £100,000 was raised.

The racing, hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron, starts with a practice race from the Squadron line on the Thursday afternoon followed two shorter races on the Friday and one long race on the Saturday. Racing is split in to nine classes including seven handicap classes and separate fleets for Sunsail 37s and Sigma 38s.

The highlights of the social events are the Gala Dinner on the Saturday evening and the Trophy Breakfast on the Sunday morning where nearly 50 trophies will be awarded.