The Little Britain Challenge Cup held in Cowes annually and, now in it's 15th year, is an event organised by the construction industry for the construction industry.

It allows everyone from MDs and architects to engineers and builders to escape the world of breezeblocks and design boards for wellies and oilskins.

Entries this year are at a record high of 234 boats, 56 of whom are new entrants, and with well over 2,000 participants.

The regatta has two purposes: firstly to have as much fun on and off the Solent as is humanly possible over a 72 hour period whilst retaining the true 'Corinthian' spirit and secondly, to raise as much money for the chosen charities the Cirdan and Jubilee Sailing Trusts, as the participants deep and generous pockets will allow.

The racing is organised by the Royal Yacht Squadron, with Richard Hayden acting as race manager, and is set in the central Solent area from the Squadron start line.

There is an official practice race on the Thursday afternoon, and the usual two short races on the Friday and one long race on the Saturday. For some of the companies taking part many of their crew have never sailed before but the LBCC is an ideal opportunity to experience the thrill of racing in the Solent.

The socials start on the Thursday with a welcoming buffet and live music, with such diverse bands as 'Shine' and the Band of HM Royal Marines Plymouth performing during the event, the high point being the Gala Dinner on the Saturday night, when the largest sit down dinner is held on the island, culminating on Sunday with the Trophy Breakfast when nearly 50 cups are awarded.

But, the event does have a serious side; last year over £100,000 was raised for charity. The main beneficiaries being the Cirdan and Jubilee Sailing Trusts, as well as local organisations, the Island Youth Centre Water Activities and Cowes Sea Scouts.