Watling JCB Limited, whose Head Office is in Whetstone, Leicestershire, have been unveiled as the Lions new team sponsor for 2017.
The team will now be referred to as the Watling JCB Leicester Lions after the two companies completed the sponsorship deal on Friday.
Sales Director Andy Raine who has been a lifelong speedway fan said: “My Dad first took me to my local track at Newcastle when I was about three or four years of age. We then went all over the country following the Diamonds and also attended World finals. When my career brought me to Leicester seven years ago I started supporting the Lions and it is great to see that speedway is continuing in Leicester this year.
The company was formed in 1976 and has grown into one of the largest JCB sole franchises in the world. The partnership is seen to be a massive boost for the club which is now under new governance following the transfer of ownership to Damien Bates last month.
Raine added: “We are looking forward to working in partnership with the Lions management team and my hopes for the season are that we see competitive racing and the team manage to be more successful.”
Watling JCB has taken over from last season’s team sponsors, Paul Chapman and Sons who are continuing as one of the club’s key business partners.
Lions Promoter David Darcy said: “We are delighted that such a high profile local company as Watling JCB whose products and brand name is known the world over have shown faith and confidence in what we are doing since Damien took over the club and we will proudly carry their name on the team’s race suits. I am also pleased that Paul Chapman has remained on board as one of the Lions backers and he will continue to support the club in other directions.”
Picture: Watling JCB Sales Director, Andy Raine (left) with Lions promoter, Dave Darcy.
