TWO companies have combined forces to jointly sponsor a snail in support of The Martlets Snailspace campaign.

They are R T Williams Insurance Brokers, of Old London Road, Brighton, and Austin Rees, a property management agency in Dyke Road, Hove.

Fifty snails will take part in the Snailway in September for the Hove hospice.

Chris Williams, managing director of R T Williams, said: “We have been supporting The Martlets hospice for a number of years and are always impressed by the work that they do for our community. We are really hoping that the wonderful people of Brighton and Hove and beyond will take these beautiful snails, along with the #BeMoreSnail message, to their hearts and raise huge amounts once again for such an inspirational cause.”

Andrew Austin, managing director at Austin Rees, said: “We are huge fans of The Martlets and we’re particularly inspired by this year’s theme.

“So many of us are guilty of becoming wrapped up in our busy lives and forgetting what’s really important.

“The #BeMoreSnail campaign will encourage us to appreciate the moment more.

“As for snails as a blank canvas, they’re perfect – not just for the artists but for our businesses. A tough shell protects a snail’s soft body from predators and harsh elements in the same way our homes provide us with shelter and insurance provides protection for the people and things we value most.”