Shepherd Neame extends partnership with Maidstone United

Kent-based family brewer Shepherd Neame, which is behind ales such as Spitfire and Whitstable Bay, has extended its successful partnership with football club Maidstone United.

Britain’s oldest brewer has just agreed a new three year pouring rights partnership with the Vanarama National League South team.

READ MORE: Shepherd Neame reopens historic Kent pub after £1.8m renovation

Maidstone United co-owner Terry Casey said: "When Oliver Ash and I took over Maidstone United in 2010, Shepherd Neame was among the first companies to support our vision for the club.

"After more than a decade working together, we are incredibly pleased that our successful relationship is to continue for at least another three years."

Shepherd Neame has been the official drinks partner for the Kent club, also known as 'The Stones', since it moved into the county town’s Gallagher stadium in 2012.

The stadium’s clubhouse is named the Spitfire Lounge after Shepherd Neame’s award-winning beer range, and work has just finished on a new Shepherd Neame-branded bar area at the ground, with three large screens showing live football.

"We are delighted to continue our successful partnership with Maidstone United," said the brewer's chief executive Jonathan Neame.

"The Stones are a fantastic club with an impressive commitment to their community and their loyal base of supporters. We look forward to joining them in celebrating the club’s achievements during the coming season."

Last month it was reported that Shepherd Neame had reopened, in August, the historic pub 'The Duke of Cumberland' in the heart of Whitstable after a £1.8 million transformation.

Dating back to 1867, the building has been refurbished inside and out, with care taken to retain and refurbish its original features – including a Grade II Listed bar with eight boutique bedrooms also created.

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