Blackpool FC chief executive explains why Seasiders extended partnership with the council

That’s according to the club’s chief executive Ben Mansford, speaking at a press conference this lunchtime to announce a 12-month extension to Visit Blackpool’s sponsorship of the home shirt.

In a joint statement, the club and council say the partnership, which was previously launched at the top of Blackpool Tower in June 2019, offers the “perfect synergy” to benefit and promote tourism in the town and community.

While the club could be forgiven for seeking a new sponsor that would have brought in extra funds, Sadler and his team were keen to maintain those strong links with the council.

“It’s such an important relationship,” Mansford said.

“It’s Simon’s view and the football club’s view that we should be at the centre of everything that happens in the community.

“Although there are brands available, that are more interested in simple exposure, that might generate those extra few pounds, this was about taking a longer-term view of repaying the faith the council showed in Simon and his ownership of the club.

“It works for both parties and now we want to drive on together for the good of Blackpool.

“In such difficult times, huge credit to the council for sticking with us and hopefully we’ll deliver for them.

“We’ve extended the partnership for a further 12 months but we both see this as a long-term arrangement that will help us both.”

The new Puma jersey was also revealed during a press conference at Bloomfield Road and is now available to pre-order.

A further announcement on the away shirt, which included the council’s mental health initiative Get Vocal last season, will be made in due course.

Neil Jack, chief executive of Blackpool Council as well as being a season ticket holder at Bloomfield Road, said this investment generates real value for money.

“The reason we invested in the club and became a partner last year was part of the regeneration of the club and its involvement in the community,” he said.

“It’s not just about putting the name ‘Visit Blackpool’ onto the shirt, it’s about making sure the club is always at the heart of the community.

“Having a club you can be proud of is part of having a town you can be proud of and I think we had all been missing that over the last few years when we weren’t coming and we didn’t have that club to belong to.

“There will be so many more investment opportunities and so many more things for us to think about. This is the beginning of a journey, not the end.

“Blackpool FC’s role in the regeneration of Blackpool is a vital one. This is the beginning of a new future and we’re all very excited to be part of it.”