CLANFIELD Bowls & Sports Club has signed up Keith Madeley as its first sponsor.

Mr Madeley has paid £700 for the privilege of advertising his services on a banner next to the green in Columbine Way.

He also has the logo of the national company he works for, 2plan Wealth Management, on the club’s website.

Already a table tennis player and cricketer, Mr Madeley is looking forward to trying his hand at bowls in the near future.

He said: “I’ve lived in this area all my life and in Clanfield itself for five years. This is an opportunity to support a local new venture. I’m trying to enhance the benefits of being a member of Clanfield Bowls & Sports Club.”

Club chairman Michael Trippick said: “When I spoke to Keith regarding the financial services and estate planning services he offers, he explained it to me in a way which came across as easy to understand and jargon free, which I felt was important.

“While our ambition ultimately is to attract players of all ages, the current demographics suggest a number of our members would be interested in learning more about what Keith has to offer.

“We now have about 230 members and we are hoping to arrange talks and advice on a range of topics.”

The almost-instant popularity of the six-month-old club has bought it valuable time in terms of securing a sound financial footing.

Mr Trippick said: “The speed of expansion has exceeded our best estimates.

“We always knew that as a charity rather than a private club we would eventually require some sponsorship. However, the pressure so far has been reduced by the sheer take-up of new memberships.

“That said, I am very pleased Keith has offered to be our first sponsor.

“It is a win-win situation.”