WHITEHAWK are celebrating a massive boost for the club’s long-term future.

The Hawks kicked off their 75th anniversary year by announcing they have signed a two-year sponsorship deal with the energy supplier Utilita.

The deal represents one of the most comprehensive and inclusive partnerships in the history of the Isthmian League outfit and, in the current uncertain climate, offers a welcome investment in the future of the club.

The sponsorship includes Utilita’s logo displayed on the 75th anniversary home shirt, and the club’s away shirt which has been designed by talented British visual artist David Shrigley.

The deal also sees Utilita sponsor the club’s affiliated LGBT team, the Rainbow Rovers, which is managed by transgender writer, speaker, activist and broadcaster Sophie Cook.

Utilita will be working with the club’s Hawks in the Community programme and ongoing partnership with The Prince’s Trust, which raises awareness of the game in the area and brings children face to face with the club’s footballers who demonstrate their training skills.

The deal was announced last Monday, the first day of Pride Month in the UK.

Jem Maidment, Utilita chief marketing officer, said: “What better day to announce our partnership with Whitehawk than on the club’s 75th anniversary and the first day of Pride Month.

“We are committed to grassroots football and clubs which make a difference, so teaming up with the Hawks is a very natural fit for us.

“It’s also exciting to be promoting greater inclusivity with the Rainbow Rovers as we look to support the LGBTQ+ community in East Sussex and beyond.”

Whitehawk FC chairman Andy Schofield said: “This is a great way to launch our 75th anniversary season.

“I’d like to thank Utilita Energy for their commitment to our club during these difficult times.

“When we finally return to playing football, it will be great to see the team take the field in the new shirt, which is a modern take on our original kit from 1945.”

Hawks commercial and marketing manager Kevin Miller said: “At a time when football is trying to find a way back to being part of our lives again, we are delighted that an established national brand such as Utilita, which has a long and successful history of football partnerships, has recognised our work and will help enhance our message of ‘inclusion within football’, driving a new, young, vibrant and diverse audience to The TerraPura Ground.”

The Hawks were flying high in BetVictor South East when the season ended prematurely due to the pandemic.

Utilita’s Energy High 5 movement enables every household to use around £163 less energy each year by making five simple and free changes at home.