Canterbury Festival has celebrated a 20-year partnership with sponsor Smiths Medical by holding a reception for the company before its sponsored performance – a stand-up show by comedian Michael McIntyre.

To mark the company’s two decades supporting the festival, chairman David Pentin presented Matt Sassone, Smiths Medical UK sales and marketing director, with a hand-painted china plate.

The gift was a gesture of thanks, with china representing the 20 years of partnership.

It was decorated with a picture of comedian Michael McIntyre and a ballet dancer – the art forms that Smiths have most frequently supported at the festival.

Ken Crowe, marketing communications manager for Smiths Medical said: “Smiths Medical has been delighted to be part of Canterbury Festival for 20 years.

“It is important for our business philosphy to be associated with quality – and our long association with Canterbury Festival is therefore the perfect partnership.”

Mr Pentin said: “Regular sponsorship is so important to us. Whether in boom times or in a recession, Smiths has consistently backed us over the past 20 years.

“This is a fantastic achievement and it has been a key element in the growth of the festival in that period.”

Michael McIntyre performed to a sell-out crowd at the Marlowe Theatre.

For information on becoming a sponsor for the 2009 festival contact the development manager Amanda McKean on 01227 452853.

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