HORNBY SPONSORS MARGATE MASTERS

This year’s Margate Masters beach volleyball tournament will be sponsored by local company Hornby Hobbies Ltd.

The firm have signed up to become the headline sponsor for the event, which attracts the country’s top volleyball players to Margate, for the next three years.

The Margate Masters, which is organised by Thanet District Council’s Sport Matters team, takes place this weekend. The free event is now into its fourth year and was named as the Best Tour Event in 2009 by the players and officials of Volleyball England.

The action starts on Friday 9 July, with a schools competition during the day, giving local youngsters the chance to play on the showcourts. The top players take to the courts on Saturday 10 July, with the women’s final taking place at 1.30pm on Sunday 11 July and the men’s final starting at 3.30pm that day. There will play on all three days from 9am to 5pm, with full match commentary and entertainment, including music, dance and foot volley demonstrations.

Cllr. Martin Wise, Cabinet Member for Commercial Services, said: “It’s great news that Hornby are sponsoring the Margate Masters. Not only are they a local company, but they’re also a name that’s known throughout the world for their toy brand. We’re delighted that they’re sponsoring this event, which will bring top quality national sport to Thanet, increases interest and participation in sport and celebrates the wonderful beaches we have right on or doorstep.

LD Lines are also supporting the event, providing prizes for the local competition which will be taking place on the tournament courts on Sunday 11 July. The competition starts at 9am and finishes at around 1pm, just before the elite finals start. The competition is open to four-a-side and pairs, with mixed teams welcome and teams can register on the day at 9am. Entry costs £10 per team.