London Pride Middlesex Sevens
Brewer signs two year sponsorship deal for the world's most famous charity Sevens event
Chiswick
brewer Fuller's launched the London Pride Middlesex Sevens Rugby tournament
at the Sun Inn, Richmond much to the delight of licensee Joe Clarke and
his regulars. Rugby players, Pat Sanderson and Chris Sheasby joined Fuller's
brands and marketing manager, David Spencer and John Roberts, Fuller's
beer and brands director at the pub to announce the London Pride sponsorship
and the draw of matches for the forthcoming competition (see picture right).
The London Pride Middlesex Sevens will take place at Twickenham Rugby Stadium on Saturday, August 16, 2003. It is initially a two-year sponsorship deal and Fuller's foresee a long-term association in the making.
David Spencer, Brands and Marketing Manager for Fuller's said: "This sponsorship is the perfect association for us, the esprit de corps between London Pride, the tournament and the fans will enhance the event and make it a day for all to enjoy. Proper beer and proper sport makes for a proper day out."
All 12 Premiership rugby clubs will be taking part in the London Pride Middlesex Sevens along with four invitation sides. In the first round the NEC Harlequins will take on Leeds Tykes and the Young England team will tackle the London Irish.
"Any number of sides could win it. It's a very open tournament this year," said Sanderson when the draw was unveiled in Richmond today. "Gloucester, the Army and Young England - who are coached by Joe Lydon - all in the top half of the draw and the winner could come from that section."
Sanderson, part of the England side that won the Hong Kong Sevens in 2002, will lead a NEC Harlequins team aiming to add to their record 13 Middlesex titles.
Fans can relish watching the best of premiership sevens players competing for the trophy, while enjoying a refreshing pint of award-winning London Pride in the sunshine at the world's most famous charity sevens event.
The tournament is now confirmed in its regular pre-season position in the rugby calendar and promises rugby fans the first chance to watch new premiership signings in action. Sky Sports will be broadcasting the whole tournament live, whilst many Fuller's pubs and stockists will be supporting the event with pre-promotion.
Howard Thomas from Premier Rugby said, "We are delighted that Fuller's London Pride is supporting the sevens. There is a great overlap between our consumers and I'm sure the rugby fans will enjoy a pint of London Pride as they watch some of the best players from the premiership in action."
The London Pride Middlesex Sevens will raise funds for two charities, the Wooden Spoon Society and the PRA Benevolent Fund.
More information about the event can be found on the official website www.londonpridemiddlesex7s.co.uk.
August 7, 2003