LAW firm has strengthened its ties with a North-East football club by announcing a new sponsorship package.

TBI Solicitors has become the sponsor of Hartlepool United’s first team home shorts and will see its logo appear on the first team’s tracksuit tops.

It builds on the relationship TBI already has with the club, having launched Pools Law 18 months ago, an initiative which offers season and match-day ticket holders, as well as their family and friends, a ten per cent discount on legal fees for a range of services.

TBI, which has four branches across the Tees Valley, recently won the business for sport prize at The Northern Echo’s Local Heroes awards, for its commitment to helping the region’s sports clubs and people.

Russ Green, chief executive of Hartlepool United, said: “It’s vital for the club to be at the heart of Hartlepool life, and by forging partnerships with the town’s businesses, the fans, the club and those businesses can benefit.

“TBI’s innovative scheme has ensured ongoing support for our youth development programme. Together, we are now building on what’s already established, with advantages for all.”

Steven Horsley, a partner with TBI Solicitors, said: “The shorts sponsorship gives us the ideal platform to strengthen our ties with Hartlepool United. Pools Law was launched 18 months ago, and has been extremely successful.

“Both TBI and Hartlepool United have heritages in the town dating back over 100 years, and it is important to both to remain firmly at the centre of activity in Hartlepool. Working together helps us do this.