The North East's premier sailing event is being sponsored by Boyes Store for the eighth year running.

Andrew Boyes, chairman and joint managing director of the firm said: "As one of the town's longest established companies we are very happy to be associated with one of Scarborough longest established sporting clubs.

This is a big event for the yacht club and the town and we are glad to play a part in it."

Mr Boyes is a keen yachtsman himself but this year he is unable to compete in the race.

He added: "This has been a very busy time for the company, last month we opened a store in Cleethopes, we're opening a store in Brigghouse next month and another in Ilkley and I just haven't had the time a skipper needs to prepare for a

yacht race like this. I will be flying out on Tuesday , though, to join the crews for the prize-giving dinner ."

Once the boats get to Holland they sail inland, with most making a stop in Amsterdam before going on to the Marker

meer lake and on to the old fishing port of Hoorn for the presentation dinner .

The crews then either stay in Holland for a holiday or sail straight back to Scarborough.

Steve Russell, commodore of Scarborough Yacht Club said: "Once again we are absolutly delighted that Boyes has maintained their support for our club. This event is now firmly established in the sporting calendar of the town and we're hoping that lots of people will come on down to watch the start of the race."