Naming rights sold as stadium emerges

Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Stamford AFC are celebrating the signing of a stadium sponsorship deal at their new Borderville ground, months before even moving in.

Zeeco Europe Ltd, part of a rapidly expanding global leader in combustion equipment for the refining, petrochemical production, power and pharmaceutical industries, have agreed an initial two-year deal with the Daniels.

Currently under construction, pictured, the Premier Division club’s new Zeeco Stadium will be the centrepiece of the new Borderville community sports complex being built in partnership with New College Stamford and Burghley Estates.

The sponsor employs more than 1,000 people worldwide and has just completed a multi-million dollar expansion of their headquarters near Stamford. Managing Director Nigel Palfreeman expressed his personal as well as professional pride when the partnership was announced.

He said: "I have lived in Stamford for 25 years and love the town from where I have grown our business. I am thrilled that we will be working with the club as they begin this exciting new chapter in their history.

"It's going to be an awesome new stadium - exactly what town and community need. Where ever possible we look to use local suppliers and employ local people. This partnership will involve us more closely with an important community activity.

"We feel very strongly about that area. Taking on apprentices and launching graduate schemes have been a key aspect of people development as the company expands."

Palfreeman revealed that his enthusiasm for the sponsorship is shared by the company’s group president and chief executive Darton Zink whose corporate headquarters operate from Tulsa, Oklahoma. He’s masterminded the growth of the privately owned business which was launched in 1979 and now has representation in over 43 countries. "Darton also loves Stamford and is equally proud to be involved," added Palfreeman.

Daniels officials believes they have found ideal sponsors and are looking forward to playing at the Zeeco Stadium next season.

Stamford commercial manager Paul Pepper said: "I am delighted and proud that we will have this partnership with Zeeco and look forward to working with them at such an exciting time."

Stamford Development Board member Guy Walton added: "Zeeco and Stamford AFC benefit from community minded foundations. They understand the importance of nurturing talent and people within our organisations. We welcome them to the Daniels' family."