From left: Graeme Craig, sales & marketing director Shepherd Neame, George Kennedy CBE, chairman Kent County Cricket Club, Jonathan Neame, chief executive Shepherd Neame and Jamie Clifford, acting chief executive Kent County Cricket Club

Kent County Cricket Club have announced a new four-year partnership with Faversham-based brewers Shepherd Neame.

The newly-signed deal will see Shepherd Neame’s name appear on the Friends Provident t20 playing and replica shirts. The tie-up also offers the brewer exclusive pouring rights at the St Lawrence Ground.

Chairman George Kennedy said: “We are delighted to have extended our deal with Shepherd Neame for a further four years. This new agreement further outlines the tremendous appeal of Kent County Cricket Club as one of the most successful counties in the Twenty20 Cup over the last few years.”

Acting chief executive officer Jamie Clifford added: “We have taken a fresh approach to the club’s sponsorship for the 2010 season. Working closely with Shepherd Neame has allowed us not only to build on the already excellent relationship but also generate greater revenues from our available rights. Their long -term support is extremely reassuring in a turbulent market and their help in maximising income extremely positive.”

Jonathan Neame, chief executive of Shepherd Neame, said: “This is tremendous news for Shepherd Neame and Kent cricket. The club provides us with a major sponsorship opportunity and we are delighted to continue our relationship with Kent Spitfires."

The club’s shirt sponsors for the LV= County Championship and Clydesdale Bank 40 will be announced shortly.