Autoworld named as new stadium sponsors

Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Matlock Town have unveiled Autoworld as their new stadium sponsor, writes Ian Richardson.

The Chesterfield-based motor dealership, who also sponsor Chesterfield FC and Derbyshire County Cricket Club, was named on Tuesday. Matlock’s Causeway Lane, formerly the Reynolds Stadium, will now be known as the Autoworld Arena.

The delighted Gladiators also announced that the company is sponsoring their social club which becomes the Autoworld Lounge.

Matlock Town Chairman Tom Wright confirmed that negotiations were successfully completed on Monday afternoon on what he describes as a "lucrative deal" for the Premier Division club.

Wright, pictured with Autoworld's Managing Director Tony Cordin, said: "The sponsorship comes into effect immediately for the rest of the season and for a further two years. Naturally we're delighted that the deal has gone through successfully.

"To be involved with a company of this stature is a great privilege for us, we'd like to welcome Autoworld into the Matlock family and we look forward to a mutually long and successful relationship with them."

Wright, who has worked hand in hand with Gladiators Vice-President and former stadium sponsor Dave Reynolds to secure the deal, added: "It would be remiss not to recognise the contribution from Dave over the years and the fact that he still continues to help the club in so many ways. It should be the start of a new era for the club as we move on from the Reynolds Stadium to the Autoworld Arena."

Autoworld's MD Cordin is enthusiastic in his support for Matlock, a club he first watched in an FA Cup First Round Proper tie against Blackburn Rovers back in November 1974.

He said: "I'm delighted that Autoworld are able to back another local club in the local community and we wish everyone at the club all the best for the future. Tom Wright and Dave Reynolds deserve great praise for their persistence in securing this sponsorship."