IT might be a long walk to the sea, but Malvern-based English Braids is partnering top ocean racing sailor Alex Bennett in his new venture on the class 40 racing circuit.

English Braids, a leading manufacturer and supplier of specialist ropes and braided cords, has worked with Alex previously, on another highly successful project.

Managing director Peter Earp said: "We are always striving to deliver the highest quality specialist products for everyone's needs in the yachting marketplace but clearly working with someone like Alex's ocean racing provides a perfect platform for us to improve our rope.

"We are breaking new ground with extreme rope designs to meet his needs and the benefits of this work will filter through to yachtsmen at every level in the months and years ahead."

Class 40 is a new racing category designed to promote top-level ocean racing without the big budgets necessary in the larger ship classes.

The category sees all the boats essentially the same weight, maximum sail area, length and width.

There are already more than 30 yachts being built around Europe in readiness for various high profile ocean races such as the single-handed transatlantic race, the Route du Rhum and Transat Jacques Vabre. There is a new dedicated programme of events under development for the boats too.

Alex will soon undertake sea trials before embarking on the race programme of events within the class 40 circuit, including at least two major international transatlantic races as well as a solo world record attempt.

"This is a very prestigious partnership for us and we're looking forward to being on board with Alex as he takes the new yacht to success after success in the next few years," said Mr Earp.

"To continuously improve your products, they have to operate in the optimum environment and we see Alex putting this exciting new boat and the components that make it cutting edge through its paces as a fantastic opportunity for us."