Manx Auto Sport has confirmed Masterpixel Media as its new headline sponsor for the Manx National Rally this May.

The Douglas-based digital marketing and design agency has stepped in to support the event following the unexpected and sudden withdrawal of previous sponsorship.

Mark Quayle, chairman of Manx Auto Sport, said: ’We are extremely pleased that Masterpixel Media has stepped in to support the Manx National Rally as title sponsor, and we very much look forward to having them on board for this historic and iconic event.

’This new sponsorship deal will allow us to build on the success of the Manx National Rally and take it forward into the future. It’s not only great news for the club and the event, but the island’s tourist industry and economy as a whole.’

The 2019 event, on May 10-11, will involve a total of 130 competitive stage miles and is expected to attract many of the top crews from around the UK, Ireland and further afield wishing to compete in one of the fastest and most-demanding events on the rally calendar.

Greg Hawke, director of Masterpixel Media, commented: ’We are very proud to be supporting the Manx National Rally, which is a popular and prestigious event that is a great credit to Manx Auto Sport and to the wider community of an island which has such a rich motorsport heritage.’

Regulations and entries open later this month.

l Manx Auto Sport hosts the OrmCo Jurby Stages event this Saturday. See preview on page 62.