New sponsors for top Royal International classes

Virtual Village, sponsor of leading showjumpers John, Michael, Louise and Robert Whitaker and Geoff Billington (Team Virtual Village), is also to sponsor international classes at the Traxdata Royal International Horse Show (25 – 29 July).

The company, which specialises in internet technology, will be supporting and adding its name to the British Grand Prix and The Chase on Thursday, 26 July.

Virtual Village riders compete in the company’s now-famous purple livery.

“Everyone has got used to seeing them in our colour, said Virtual Village’s chief executive David Heap. “I thought it was time that the public and industry got to know more about the company behind them, who we are and what we do.”

Hickstead owner Douglas Bunn said: “It is satisfying that such a high-profile company should choose Hickstead to expand its public image and by taking two classes, Virtual Village will be the dominant name at the show on that day.”

Refco, the leading global financial services company, has also announced that it is to sponsor the prestigious King George V Gold Cup (Sunday, 29 July).

The company, which supports British Nations Cup rider Damian Charles, will also sponsorthe RIHS speed grand prix and the Derby Tankard at the Derby meeting in July.

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