National tool and building accessories supplier Toolstation has announced a three-year sponsorship agreement with the Northern Counties East Football League (NCEFL).

The league is home of over 40 football clubs in Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire, and Toolstation's Head of Marketing John Meaden said he was enthusiastic about the opportunity to support football across the region.

"We recognise how tough it is for clubs to secure the financial support they need to continue their role within the local community," he said. "It was clear to us that the Northern Counties East is a very well run league and has great local support so we are honoured to be able to assist and extend our support of grass roots football in the UK."

League Chairman David Morrall expressed delight at the Toolstation sponsorship deal. "The League is delighted to have secured this sponsorship arrangement with a high profile company which recognises the importance of local community involvement," he said.

Toolstation is entering its ninth season of sponsorship of the Western League in the south west of the UK and the new arrangement with the NCEFL has been made with their blessing. It was the Secretary of the Western League, Ken Clarke, who introduced the NCEFL to Toolstation.

Brian Gould, the NCEFL Secretary/Treasurer, commented that this sponsorship deal will provide the confidence and stability for the League to progress. He says that hopefully all of the Member Clubs will benefit from the arrangement and the Board will be considering ways in which to achieve this at its next meeting.

To initiate the new deal, officials gathered at one of the League's - and Britain's - jewels, namely Hallam FC, listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest football ground in the world.? Toolstation's Managing Director, Neil Carroll, met with Howard Webb MBE, President of the NCEFL, David Morrall, its Chairman, and Hallam FC's President, Uriah Rennie.

Howard said he was looking forward to Toolstation taking on the mantle of League sponsor. "The League has already enjoyed success with nine FA Vase finalists. The sponsorship arrangement with Toolstation will be a big boost for everyone connected with the League," he said.

Toolstation and the NCEFL have finalised a new three year sponsorship agreement. From left to right: Toolstation's Managing Director Neil Carroll, Chairman NCEFL David Morrall, Hallam FC President Uriah Rennie and President of the NCEFL Howard Webb MBE.