BLACKPOOL Raiders, which is one of the largest and most successful roller hockey clubs in the country, has secured a major sponsor.

Crown Trade Paints have sponsored new kit for the whole club which consists of more than 60 players.

The Raiders are fast becoming a well known name in the world of roller hockey as they challenge for major honours every season.

In the last season alone their U14 and U16 teams were crowned national champions and the U18 and Senior teams both finished national runners up.

No less than nine Raiders players play for Great Britain, and several more who play for the northern regional team. The club also play in various tournaments, including international events which has seen them travel to Holland and France in the last 12 months.

In December Raiders will be traveling to France to defend a major international honour they won in December 2000. Known as PUCMANIA the tournament includes many of the top roller hockey teams in France, Belgium and Germany.

The Raiders train every Thursday evening at the Wimbourne Sports Arena, Cropper Road, Marton. If you would like to know more about Raiders contact manager John Boswell on 07813 647288.