Chairman Colin Goodwin said the Melbourne Avenue club put careful consideration into selecting a partner who has similar values.

“We’ve thought long and hard about a new sponsor and we are pleased to welcome Co-Operative Funeral Care to the club. We are very proud of our shirts and Co-Operative Funeral Care match our values.

"The club has over 250 junior players, two under 18 Colts teams, a ladies’ team and three senior sides. It’s a big undertaking for us and we need to know the right company with the right people have come on board.”

Glynis Jones is the manager Co-Operative Funeral Care in Blackpool, Wyre & Fylde and the company will sponsor shirts and signage around the ground.

“We are really proud to sponsor such a successful local club. It’s very important we give back to the community as we work very closely with local people.”

Glynis went to school at Collegiate has been with the Co-Operative for over 12 years. She says working with the community helps the funeral director offer a personalised service.

“If we are known within our local community, it does make that difficult time slightly easier by turning to somebody people have already come across. Our business isn’t something people always want to talk about but it’s an inevitable part of life. We treat everybody with the upmost respect and dignity.”

Colin added “The company is sincere and understanding in its dealing with local people and Glynis presents a very professional manner in difficult circumstances. With Glynis, we have a local lady who knows the area and knows how to deal with people in a sensitive and friendly manner. It’s a very good partnership for us.

Enquires about sponsorship packages at the club can be directed to club commercial director Beverley Holden on 07730571442.

IMAGE Glynis Wilson and Colin Goodwin