Spireites: New shirt and '˜most lucrative' deal in club history

The Spireites’ 2016/17 home and away shirts will bear the logo of contruction firm GF Tomlinson.

A three-year deal has been agreed with the Derbyshire-based company, with an option for a three-year extension.

And a club statement, released after Tuesday night’s launch event, boasted: “It represents the most lucrative commercial deal in the history of the club, with GF Tomlinson becoming the club’s most prominent commercial partner.”

The new home shirt, which marks the club’s 150th anniversary, was unveiled at the Proact on Tuesday, modelled by skipper Gary Liddle and Angel Martinez.

GF Tomlinson started their relationship with Chesterfield FC back in October last year, when they signed a two-year deal to sponsor the giant video scoreboard at the Proact.

Kevin Fitzgerald, the club’s head of commercial and marketing, said the new shirt sponsorship agreement was further evidence that the club are effectively raising their profile.

“We are delighted to have G F Tomlinson on board,” he said.

“They are a thriving family-run construction firm with a love of football, too. We are excited to introduce a new large Derbyshire-based company to the club at a time when we are moving forward as a commercial team.

“We have seen the introduction of the video screen at the stadium and next season the digital LED advertising boards will also be in place, taking the club to the next level in commercial advertising.

“I would personally like to thank Andy Hughes, director and general manager, and all at G F Tomlinson for the support that they have given and are still giving to the club.”

Chesterfield director Ashley Carson also welcomed the latest development in the club’s relationship with the Little Eaton based company.

“I am delighted that G F Tomlinson have agreed to be our official shirt sponsor,” he said.

“They have already been very supportive with the sponsoring of the scoreboard and we look forward to working with them over the next three years.”

Barry Sewards, chairman for GF Tomlinson, said the success of their initial involvement with the Spireites prompted them to increase their financial support.

He said: “Being supportive of the local community and engaging with Derbyshire sports clubs is something that G F Tomlinson Group is passionate about.

“Having realised the benefits of sponsoring Chesterfield FC’s score board this season, we have chosen to extend this backing to include the players’ home and away kits.

“As a well-loved and reputable club celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, we’re looking forward to supporting the club’s fundraising activity on behalf of local charities in Chesterfield.”

What do you think of the new shirt? Will you be buying it?

Email [email protected] or tweet @GrahamSmyth with your views.