Wally Castro Marine, organisers of the 2024 Xmas in July event, have donated £6,000 to Beyond the Reef, a non-profit organisation dedicated to marine education and preservation in the British Virgin Islands. The funds were raised through the sale of the event’s official reusable stainless steel tumblers, one of several eco-friendly initiatives introduced this year.

“This initiative reflects our desire to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our beaches,” said Wally Castro, owner of Wally Castro Marine. “We are proud to support a local organisation that shares our dedication to environmental stewardship.”

The 2024 Xmas in July event, held on 20th July at Pond Bay Beach in Virgin Gorda, attracted nearly 5,000 attendees and 500 vessels. It set a new standard for eco-conscious planning by minimising its environmental impact through reusable products and strict waste disposal measures.

Members of Beyond the Reef were actively involved in overseeing tumbler sales, while the Valley Sound Lions Club provided local dishes, further supporting the fundraising efforts.

“We are deeply grateful for this donation,” said Kendyl Berna, founder of Beyond the Reef. “Our oceans are a vital but fragile resource, and it’s crucial that everyone who enjoys the sea does so responsibly.”

The event, organised by Wally Castro Marine in partnership with the BVI Tourist Board and Marcos Rivera, highlights the importance of sustainable tourism in the region.

“By choosing the BVI, attendees support our local economy and marine tourism industry,” said Clive McCoy, BVI tourism director. “They also help our local non-profits continue their vital work.”

For more information, visit Wally Castro Marine’s website or contact the BVI Tourism Office in Puerto Rico.

Deputy Governor David Archer Jr. has assumed the role of Acting Governor of the British Virgin Islands in the temporary absence of His Excellency, Governor Daniel Pruce, who is currently out of the Territory. Mr. Archer will serve in this capacity until September 22.

This appointment is in accordance with Section 37 (1)(a) of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order of 2007, which stipulates: “During any period when the office of Governor is vacant, or the Governor is absent from the Virgin Islands or is for any other reason unable to perform the functions of his or her office, the Deputy Governor shall, during His Majesty’s pleasure, act in the office of Governor and shall perform the functions of that office accordingly.”

Mr. Archer officially took on his new duties following the signing of the Oath of Allegiance. The ceremony was attended by Her Ladyship, the Honourable Justice Angelica Teelucksingh, and Governor Daniel Pruce before his departure.

With this appointment, Archer will oversee the administration of the Territory until Governor Pruce’s return, ensuring continuity in governance during this interim period.

The Cayman Islands secured a narrow 1-0 victory over the British Virgin Islands (BVI) in a tense Group C matchup at the Truman Bodden Complex in George Town, Cayman Islands.

Both teams battled fiercely throughout the match, with early chances setting the tone for a competitive contest. Cayman’s Trey Ebanks fired an early warning shot in the 21st minute, but BVI goalkeeper Frankie Beckles made a crucial save to keep the game level.

The British Virgin Islands continued to hold their ground defensively, with Jacobbi Tugman almost finding the back of an open net in the 31st minute. However, Kavon Caesar made a well-timed clearance, preventing the Cayman Islands from taking an early lead.

Beckles remained a key figure in the BVI defence, making another critical save in the 76th minute to deny Alexander Clarke-Ramírez and maintain the scoreline at 0-0.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 84th minute when Elijah Seymour found the back of the net for the Cayman Islands. Seymour’s left-footed strike came after Zachary Scott intercepted a pass and delivered a precise ball into the penalty area, setting up Seymour for the match-winning goal.

The British Virgin Islands pushed forward in the final minutes but were unable to find an equaliser, handing the Cayman Islands a hard-fought victory on home turf.