Runcorn Linnets: Millbank sponsorship deal a perfect homecoming gift for Murdishaw bound Vodkat League club

Feb 11 2010 Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

Runcorn Linnets: Millbank sponsorship deal a perfect homecoming gift for Murdishaw bound Vodkat League club

THE managing director of Runcorn Linnets’ new main sponsor The Millbank Group says he is delighted to welcome them home.

A substantial annual investment will see the company sponsor the club’s under-construction Murdishaw base – to be known as The Millbank Stadium – and the club shirts, from 2010-11. Both are three-year deals with an option for a further two.

MD David Hopley, one of the firm’s three co-owners, grew up in Runcorn and fondly recalls attending Runcorn AFC matches at Canal Street.

“I have good memories of the club from my youth,” he said. “It’s such a good thing for kids to have something local. It is not always easy to afford a Manchester United or Liverpool ticket and this is something they can come along to. I think the kids need it and the town needs it too.”

Millbank started out in Albert Road, Widnes, in the mid-1970s and after moving to Frodsham, they set up in Runcorn five years ago.

The business, with an annual turnover of more than £50 million, is a UK market leader in resource management solutions – supplying the nuclear, energy, process and transportation sectors.

“We employ 60 in-house in Runcorn and 1,000 people work through us in companies such as Shell and Network Rail,” added Hopley.

“Ever since the club’s initial approach to us last year, we have been impressed by their professionalism. even though they are a volunteer organisation and we want to help them flourish and develop their plans for local football. This is just the start of the relationship and we have experience, resources and expertise that we can make available to the club. For instance, we are considering sponsoring a Runcorn Linnets Soccer School for local kids in the summer.”

Linnets' chairman Derek Greenwood said it was fantastic to have a business of Millbank’s calibre on board.

“This multi-year sponsorship deal with the Millbank Group allows the club to make financial plans with a level of certainty that isn't possible without arrangements like this in place. Now that the club is moving back to the town, we hope that this will be just the first of many local companies that will take an interest.”