Ford extends Essex County Cricket Club support

Ford has announced an extension of its Essex County Cricket Club sponsorship to the end of 2008.

The home of Essex County Cricket Club remains Ford County Ground in recognition of Ford's status as the largest private employer in the county. To celebrate Ford's continued relationship with the club, a new Ford Focus ST performance car was handed over to Essex and England player Ravinder Bopara.

"The association of Ford and cricket brings together two very British images," said Mark Ovenden, marketing director, Ford of Britain. "Essex is the home of Ford in the UK, employing 9,500 people and we are proud to remain a supporter of first-class cricket in our home county."

David East, chief executive of Essex County Cricket Club, added: "We are delighted to continue our successful relationship with Ford. It is fantastic to have such a recognised brand associated with us in what is clearly a very strong commercial deal for Essex County Cricket Club."

Ford's link with Essex County Cricket Club preceded the company's original three-year agreement signed in 2005. Other high-profile Essex players already had top-of-the-range Ford Mondeos and last year Alastair Cook took delivery of his own Ford Focus ST.