Battling Bernard Braves the Waves for Charity

Michelmores office manager Bernard Cockfield completed the popular Eddystone Charity Sailing Pursuit on 11 July 2009, an annual race organised by Plymouth-based Royal Western Yacht Club which raises thousands of pounds for good causes.

Sponsored by South Brent-based OI Sciences, Bernard and his wife Marisa sailed their 30 foot yacht Cumulus with a crew of four to the Hands Deep buoy just west of the Eddystone Lighthouse and some 13 miles offshore.

Persistent rain and a strong south west wind made conditions very tricky for the 70 competitors who began the race, eventually forcing 16 to retire.  Nevertheless, the event raised over £35,000 for a number of charities, including more than £500 from the crew of Cumulus (including a contribution from Michelmores) going to the BRAMS- Bristol branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Bernard said: "Conditions were very tough with torrential rain and poor visibility but we are pleased to have completed the course and met our fundraising target." 

The couple now intend undertaking a 100 mile bike ride in aid of the Multiple Sclerosis Society at the end of July.