Wyndham Plastics And Nike Join Shrimpers Ship

The South Wales-based firm, whose managing director, Steve Clark, is a lifelong Blues fan, have agreed a £20,000-deal which will cover the sponsorship of away shirts for the next twelve months. Wyndham Plastics and Glass Limited last advertised on Southend shirts during the 2000/1 campaign, when the away kit was a garish tangerine colour. Clark, whose namesake recently committed his future to the Shrimpers, revealed to the club's official website (www.southendunited.co.uk) that, "Although my business is based in South Wales, we are a national company and the exposure around the country will be of great benefit".

Wyndham Plastics follow GKC Communications, last years' sponsors of the East Stand at Roots Hall, who announced a one-year contract to sponsor the club's home shirts for the 2003/4 campaign at the end of the last season, when the Shrimpers finished a disappointing 17th. Both GKC Communications and Wyndham Plastics will be hoping for an improvement, and Clark said, "I am confident that the club's fortunes are looking good and I am excited to be involved at such a level".

Meanwhile, clothing brand Nike have been unveiled as United's new kit manufacturer. Head of the Commercial Department Brian Wheeler declared that it was "further proof that the Club is moving in the right direction". The price of next season's kit has not been announced, but at the launch, expected to be Meet The Blues Day on Sunday 20th July, it is believed that the cost will be in the region of two pounds more than last season's £37.99 for a short-sleeved adult replica shirt.

Robert Craven
www.thelittlegazette.com