Partner Article

Coventry equipment hire firm celebrates 50th anniversary

A Coventry equipment hire firm has kicked off its 50th anniversary celebrations by sponsoring Barker Butts Rugby Football Club.

Clements Equipment Hire in Torrington Avenue, Tile Hill, is hoping to give the club a lift after pledging its support as a pitch-side sponsor.

Clements was looking to strengthen its ties in the local community as part of its half-century celebrations and decided to sponsor one of the most established rugby clubs in the city.

Like Clements, Barker Butts RFC has a rich history and since forming in 1947, has spawned several top international rugby players including World Cup winners Neil Back and Danny Grewcock.

The club has four senior sides and also operates a strong youth policy with seven teams spanning the ages of eight to 14.

As a club sponsor, the company will provide much-needed funds to help maintain the ground, and provide equipment and support events that encourage children and adults to get involved in the game.

Clements’ signage has been installed at the club’s ground in Pickford Grange Lane, Allesley.

Jim Longstaff, managing director at Clements, said: “It is a big year for Clements as we celebrate 50 years in business and as part of that we wanted to give something back to the community.

“Barker Butts RFC is a hugely successful club with a history spanning almost 70 years. It is involved in the game at grassroots and amateur level, and we wanted to be a part of that.

“Our financial director Rachel Canning’s son is also a member of the U13 team so it will be great for us to go and watch him play, and see Clements above the dugout.”

John Askill, president of Barker Butts RFC, said: “We would like to congratulate Clements on completing 50 years in our local community. We are delighted to have them on board. They have been very generous and will be an important asset to the club.

“We regularly need to use a lot of the equipment that Clements supplies and the company has agreed to help out which will be a huge benefit in keeping the pitches and hedges maintained.

“There is plenty to be excited about at the club. Three years ago, the senior team was promoted to Midlands 1 and once again the club continues to field a team almost entirely made up of home-grown players who have developed through the club. We also have around 400 youngsters who play as part of our mini and junior teams.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Matt Joyce .