by Trevor Sturgess

Gillingham shirt sponsor Kent Reliance Building Society is backing the club for another year.

On a weekend that renewed Gillingham’s hope of avoiding relegation, the club had another reason to celebrate as the Chatham-based financial group pledged its continued support.

Kent Reliance agreed a three-year deal in 2007 and talks about renewing it have been going on since the start of the year. It is understood there had been differences, but these were put behind them at a meeting between club chairman Paul Scally and KRBS chief executive Mike Lazenby just hours before Saturday’s game with Southampton.

Kent Reliance had drawn up plans for a new three-year sponsorship, but it was decided to trim it to 12 months and review again at the end of the 2011 season.

The deal’s value has not been disclosed but retains the society’s initials in the Priestfield name.

Mr Scally said: “We are very happy with the deal. It’s an improved offer and we’re looking forward to another year with Kent Reliance.”

Mr Lazenby said: “We’re passionate about the club and we wanted to carry on. It’s good for our members and good for the club.”

Gills victory against Southampton left them needing one point from their final League One game against already-relegated Wycombe this Saturday to avoid the drop. However, it is anything but a foregone conclusion - Mark Stimson's side have the worst away record in the football league.