SHEPHERD Neame, already main sponsors of Kent County Cricket Club and village cricket throughout the county, are to sponsor the Kent Cricket League for the 2004 season.

Mark McJennett, Shepherd Neame’s marketing director, said: “We’ve invested £10,000 in the sponsorship, which further demonstrates our commitment to cricket at all levels in Kent.

“We are also sponsoring a new cricket competition - the 2004 Spitfire 20/20 Knockout Cup - open to 128 1st and 2nd XI teams from the Shepherd Neame Kent Cricket League and Kent Village Cricket League.”

Howard Smith, chairman of Kent Cricket League, said: “We are delighted that our league is being sponsored by Shepherd Neame, who are not only Britain’s oldest brewer but also based in Kent.

“Their involvement with cricket is second to none, not only sponsoring the County but now at grass roots level.”