GKN Aerospace have signed up to support this September’s Isle of Wight stage of the Tour of Britain, on Sunday 11th September, as the official fan hub sponsor for the final leg of the national tour.
More than 100 of the world’s top cyclists will be racing from Ryde to a thrilling uphill finish at The Needles in a 150-kilometre (93-mile) stage that will take in Sandown, Yarmouth, Cowes, Newport, and Ventnor as well as many other communities across the island.
Presenting partner of the Tour Villages
Through the partnership, GKN Aerospace will be the presenting partner of the Tour Villages at the start in Ryde and the finish of the stage at The Needles.
GKN Aerospace will also be supporting communities across the Isle of Wight to celebrate the Tour of Britain’s arrival through special ‘Tour Takeover’ packs that will be available in the build up to the race.
Pritchard: GKN a good match and cannot wait to get involved
John Pritchard, President Civil Airframe GKN Aerospace, said,
“It is great to be partnering with the Tour Series and to support this fantastic bike-racing event. GKN Aerospace is the global technology leader in innovative lightweight composite aircraft components.
“Lightweight composites are also a key material for racing bikes. We are a good match and we cannot wait to get involved.”
Jones-Evans: Fantastic to have such a prominent Island employer supporting the Tour of Britain
Cllr Julie Jones-Evans, Cabinet member for regeneration and business development at the Isle of Wight Council, said,
“It’s fantastic to have one of the world’s leading aerospace suppliers, and such a prominent Island employer, supporting the Isle of Wight stage of the Tour of Britain.
“As we edge closer to the event, I’m excited to hear more about the special ‘Tour Takeover’ packs which will support our local communities celebrate this most wonderful occasion. The positive support of GKN is most welcome and continues the good news as we build up to the big day!”
Myles: An incredible opportunity
Will Myles, Managing Director at Visit Isle of Wight said,
“I am very pleased to welcome the support from GKN on the Isle of Wight stage of the Tour of Britain.
“The support from local people and companies is very welcome. The Tour of Britain is an incredible opportunity to show the UK – and millions of viewers across the world – how fantastic the Island is as a destination, not just as a mecca for cycling, but also as a welcoming and fun place for all visitors.”
Who are GKN Aerospace?
GKN Aerospace is the world’s leading multi-technology tier 1 aerospace supplier. As a global company serving the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, GKN Aerospace develops, builds and supplies an extensive range of advanced aerospace systems, components and technologies for use in Defence and Commercial aircraft ranging from helicopters, business jets, passenger planes to the most advanced fighter aircraft. GKN Aerospace operates in 12 countries at 38 manufacturing locations employing approximately 15,000 people.
GKN Aerospace has two facilities in East Cowes on the Isle of Wight where they design, manufacture, test and repair high performance aircraft structures and systems, employing the company’s distinct competencies in major assemblies and composite structures for the global aerospace market.
Other partners
GKN Aerospace join Wightlink, Red Funnel, South Western Railways and Mountbatten as previously announced partners of the Isle of Wight’s first ever Tour of Britain stage.
ITV4 will continue to broadcast live flag-to-flag coverage of every stage and nightly highlights show, allowing fans in the UK to watch wherever they are. The race will also be shown in over 150 countries worldwide, thanks to the event’s partnerships with Eurosport and the Global Cycling Network.
Last year’s star-studded race was won by Belgian rider Wout Van Aert (Team Jumbo – Visma), with reigning world road race champion Julian Alaphilippe finishing third overall. According to research by Frontline, a roadside crowd of over one million spectators resulted in the Tour of Britain generating £29.96m of net economic benefit for the UK economy.
News shared by Peter on behalf of Tour of Britain. Ed
Image: © SWpix
