Hampshire’s Hamble Winter Sailing Series is unlikely to lose its way any time soon with a navigation firm announcing a long-term sponsorship deal with the competition.

Garmin, who produce global positioning systems and are based in Southampton, will – after a decade of doing so – continue to be the main sponsor of the event after an agreement was made with Hamble River Sailing Club (HRSC).

Their commitment to the racing event reflects the increasing popularity of the series as the UK’s premier winter competition – 160 yachts took part in 2013.

Commodore at HRSC, Trevor Pountain, was pleased to announce Garmin’s partnership with the club.

“We are delighted to welcome title sponsor Garmin back,” he said.

“We look forward to working with them.

“HRSC is very proud to run the Hamble Winter Series, which offers great racing and a warm welcome back.

“We are recognised for our great race management and work hard to ensure the event goes from strength to strength.”

The 33rd edition of the Hamble Series starts on October 4 and finishes on 30 November.

For the first time the mid-series break weekend of 1 and 2 November has been designated as a spare weekend.

Already planning is in its advanced stages, with more information available at hamblewinterseries.com Early entry discount closes on 19 September.