SUSSEX Cricket has signed a partnership agreement with Hove-based creative agency Oliver & Graimes.

O&G will work with Sussex Cricket as its creative marketing partners for the next five years.

During that period, O&G will work closely with Sussex Cricket’s commercial team on all aspects of the club’s brand.

The partnership has already resulted in a new Sussex Cricket website, which has significantly improved the club’s online presence.

Sussex Cricket’s commercial director Mark Judges said: “It is fantastic to partner with one of the leading boutique creative marketing agencies in the UK, coupled with the fact they are local Sussex business based in Hove.

“Our five-year partnership allows both parties to future plan and deliver market leading solutions.

“It is an exciting time to be part of Sussex Cricket both on and off the field, we are very pleased to welcome O&G to the Sussex Family.”

O&G’s managing director Gavin Graimes said: “We’re really excited to be partnering with the team at Sussex Cricket.

“We share the same vision for the club and have some great ideas to take it forward over the next few years.

“As the oldest professional sports club in the world, we’re really proud to win this account and grow our sport sector knowledge even more.”

Meanwhile, County Cricket is once again coming to Eastbourne, making a welcome return to the Saffrons ground, home of Eastbourne Cricket Club.

Sussex Sharks will be playing county champions Essex Eagles in the 50-over Royal London One Day Cup on Sunday, June 3.

It’s the second year that Sussex has played at the Saffrons following a 17-year absence, and Eastbourne Cricket Club Chairman, Ian Fletcher-Price, is delighted.

He said: “The success of last year’s event has cemented this in the fixtures calendar.

“Events like this can only happen with the help of local businesses and the local council, and I’m pleased to say that we are once more seeing great support again.

“Five hundred business leaders have signed up, making the corporate seating area a virtual sell-out.

“We have general seating for over 5,000 and it should be a truly fantastic day.

“Sussex Sharks have played the Eagles numerous times over the years and they are always exciting matches.

“The Eagles are expected to bring 500 supporters with them and I’m sure it will be a great event.”

Around 4,000 spectators enjoyed last year’s match at the Saffrons between Sussex and Gloucestershire, with the visitors taking top honours.

More than 50 friends of Eastbourne Cricket Club turned out to help on the day, serving about 1,500 pints of beer to thirsty spectators.

The club is investing £15,000 at the end of this season to re-lay and level the main part of the square. This will further improve the playing surface to provide more pace in the wicket.