Media company jumps on board as e-boat challenge sponsor

20 April 2023

Somerset Chamber Business Partner, the Somerset County Gazette Series, is sponsoring Taunton teenager Harry Besley as he tackles an environmental challenge by skippering an electric power boat around the coast of Britain this summer.

Harry (pictured), who is a former pupil of Kings Hall, will be taking part in the Round Britain eRIB Challenge and needs sponsors to help cover the costs of the challenge.

The aim is to showcase marketing-leading, zero emission technology and he is hoping local, green-minded businesses will come on-board as sponsors.

Working with British Marine and the RYA, through their joint Green Blue initiative, the team aims to enhance public knowledge and understanding of why the development of a sustainable leisure marine sector and related infrastructure is crucial. 

The main goals of this project are to: 

• Support the Clean Maritime Plan target for all new vessels ordered for use in UK waters to be designed with zero emission propulsion capability
• Enable more local sailing clubs, marinas, harbour authorities, port operators and private owners to access eBoat charging facilities
• Showcase the potential for using eBoats in UK coastal waters
• Set a baseline for eBoating capabilities in 2023 and establish a target for future challenges to beat

Harry said: “We now have the plans and logistics in place, all we need is funding. These projects are unfortunately not cheap and vital items need to be purchased or sadly the challenge cannot continue. For anyone interested in sponsorship, please get in touch with Jaqui our project manager. Full details can be found on our website”.