Sun Bank has signed a six-figure deal with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to sponsor its National Under 15 Club Cricket Championship for the next three years.

Sun Bank has been associated with the competition for many years, making Sun Bank one of the ECB's longest standing partners. The number of clubs competing has grown from an entry of 817 clubs in 1985, to a record number of 1479 last year. This year's tournament started in April with more than 1500 clubs taking part which means many thousands of young cricketers participating throughout the British Isles.

The Championship has featured in the development of a number of England cricketers such as Nasser Hussain, Marcus Trescothick, Graham Thorpe and Andrew Flintoff. One of the first ECB National Cricket Academy students and now drafted into the current England Squad, Flintoff is often remembered for his extraordinary feat in the 1993 competition of scoring 234 not out in 20 overs.

Tim Lamb, ECB's Chief Executive, said, "I am delighted that Sun Bank has decided to continue it's association with the tournament with the signing of this three year sponsorship deal.. Grass roots development is vital for the future of the game, and this competition in particular has played an important role in the development of some of England's best cricketers. I am certain it will continue to do so.

"The Sun Bank Under 15 National Club Cricket Championship provides a focal point for Under 15 club cricket, giving the players something to aim for in their season. Club cricket in England and Wales would be poorer without it.

"Despite a challenging market for sponsorship, this deal proves that cricket continues to appeal to investors, and we look forward to making further announcements during this summer."

Commenting on the deal, Sun Bank's Chief Executive, Peter Lucas, said: "Sun Bank is pleased to be playing a part in the ECB's objectives of encouraging the widest possible participation and interest in the game. Cricket provides a marvellous opportunity for young people to play sport within a team environment with all the positive benefits that can bring. We know that team work is crucial in today's business world and at this exciting time in Sun Bank's history we are actively pursuing a larger share of the mortgage market through team work with Independent Financial Advisors to provide relevant specialist products and continuing excellent service for our clients.

The Under 15 National Club Cricket Championship has been in existence since 1972, when it was initiated by the Lord's Taverners.

© ECB