LOCAL law firm Ellisons is this year's sponsor for Mersea's annual 'Round the Island' race for dinghies and small boats.More than 100 boats are expected to circumnavigate the island at the event, organised by the West Mersea Yacht Club, which takes place on Wednesday, August 15, mid-way through Mersea Week.

LOCAL law firm Ellisons is this year's sponsor for Mersea's annual 'Round the Island' race for dinghies and small boats.

More than 100 boats are expected to circumnavigate the island at the event, organised by the West Mersea Yacht Club, which takes place on Wednesday, August 15, mid-way through Mersea Week.

Entries close on Wednesday, August 8, and competitors will then be watching the weather to plan their strategies, including which way round to sail.

Ellisons partner Seamus Clifford will be among those lining up to compete in his B14 fast dinghy.

“This race is much more than a sailing club experience. It is an opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate this very special island on which we all live,” he said.

“Many of our firm, including myself, live on the island, as do a number of our clients and so it seems natural for a local business such as Ellisons to support this focal event.

“Sailing round, or rather almost all the way round, emphasises our island identity and it is a privilege for Ellisons to have the opportunity to be associated with such an established community event.”