Last updated at 16:17, Thursday, 08 November 2012

BARROW Raiders have named RF Miller as their new main sponsors for the 2013 Championship campaign.

THANKS A LOT: Barrow Raiders chairman David Sharpe (centre), with Elaine Harris and Terry Crossley, partners in RF Miller & Co, the club’s new main sponsors SUBMITTED

The financial details of the deal have not been revealed, but the club accountants will replace Furness Park Motors on the club’s shirts for next season.

Club chairman David Sharpe said the deal showed great confidence in the club as they continue to rebuild following the revelation of record debts totalling more than £550,000 last year.

“It’s a massive part of the season and we are delighted that RF Miller have stepped up and become the main sponsor,” he said.

“They have had boxes and supported us for a lot of years, as well as being our accountants, so this is a move forward.

“With going into the Championship and with all the problems there have been over the last few years, this really adds a lot of credibility to the club.

“They are showing faith in us that we have turned the corner and that will hopefully lead to other good sponsorships. It’s a big deal all round for us.”

RF Miller have been the Barrow RL accountants for more than 80 years and worked with them through the financial difficulties of last year.

Company partner Elaine Harris said: “We are delighted to be the new main sponsors for the Raiders.

“Last season was difficult, but the club pulled through and these are exciting times as we look ahead. It also means a lot to me personally – rugby league is in my blood, my dad was a player and has been part of the coaching staff. I have followed Barrow RL all my life.”

Sharpe is hopeful the deal with RF Miller will inspire other companies to invest in the club, both in terms of sponsorship and to help with their current floodlights appeal.

Raiders are looking to raise £100,000 to pay for new lighting at Craven Park – with the prospect of being thrown out of the Championship should they fail to do so by the end of 2013.

The Barrow chairman added: “The partnership with RF Miller gives us greater credibility as we look to strengthen links with the community.

“It will help us with our floodlight campaign and lend greater profile as we seek to establish ourselves back at a higher level.

“Barrow RL has a great history, it’s our responsibility to ensure it has a great future. Commercial sponsorship deals, such as this, can only help us achieve our goals.”

He added: “What we are trying to do this year is get everything done well in advance and that will link in with the season, starting with friendly games and the sponsors’ dinner.

“We can plan for that properly this year, whereas last year, while it was very successful, it was organised at the last minute. Now we are planning in advance and getting things sorted.”

First published at 16:10, Thursday, 08 November 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk