New sponsor found for Us

A MYSTERY company has landed a town's football team its biggest ever sponsorship deal.

But last night Colchester United Football Club chiefs were keeping tight-lipped about the identity of the firm, saying it would not be revealed until a week before the first league game of next season.

All that could be established is that the sponsor is an international company with offices as far away as the United States and Malaysia, but also has a local base.

Talks to finalise the deal came to a conclusion late last week and the contract to formalise it was delivered to the company yesterday morning.

Last night the club's chief executive, Marie Partner, said she could not reveal how much the deal was worth to the U's.

But she said: “I can confirm that it is a five figure sum, and that it is the biggest ever sponsorship deal we have had.

“The company has made it clear they want to launch it just before the league season.”

She added: “They are very much into the community activities and though they are international, they felt there was a connection with Colchester United and wanted a partnership with their local football team.”

Yesterday Jon Burns, chairman of the Colchester United Supporters Association, said he was pleased that the U's had found a sponsor.

He added, however, that because of the late launch of the deal he hoped that there would be enough club shirts bearing the new sponsors name to meet supporters' demand.

“It has been a waiting game, but it's one of those things. Personally, I'm delighted they have found a sponsor. We are just hoping there will be enough shirts to go round.

“I am sure fans will be queuing up to get them, and I understand the club is planning a series of events for that week.

“One member has to buy six or seven home and away shirts for his family. I am sure he'll be the first in line.”