Ford applauds rise of Essex Eagles

Ford has joined in its home county's cricket celebrations after Essex won the Pro40 Division Two title and the side's talented all-rounder Ravi Bopara was declared Young Player of the Year.

Ford, Essex County Cricket Club ground sponsor since 2005, has launched advertising to mark the victories. During the season Ravi, 23, took delivery of a new Ford Focus Coupé Cabriolet. Fellow Essex Eagles star, Alastair Cook, has also received one of Ford's popular open-top coupés.

The Ford County Ground in Chelmsford saw Eagles victories over Surrey and Yorkshire in the Pro40 series. Ravi contributed 59 runs to Essex's 247-6 scoreline over Kent at Canterbury at the weekend – leading to a four-wicket win, the Division Two title and promotion to the top league next year.

Ravi was named as the Young Cricketer of the Year 2008 by the British-based Cricket Writers' Club. They recognised outstanding performances since making his English Test debut in December 2007.

Mark Ovenden, Ford of Britain marketing director, said: "We're adding our congratulations to Ravi and Essex Eagles with print advertising promoting our links through Ford County Ground sponsorship, supplying Ford Focus Coupé Cabriolets, as well as Focus STs, and supporting the club through the season."

David East, Essex County Cricket Club chief executive, added: "It’s great for Ravi that his wonderful season has been recognised by the cricket writers. It has been clear for a number of years that we have a star in the making and we are pleased that Ravi is starting to fulfill that promise. Ford has been magnificent supporters and we are delighted our success on the field continues to cement our relationship."