Clydesdale Bank extends sponsorship deal with SPL

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The Scottish Premier League has announced it has reached agreement with the Clydesdale Bank to extend its sponsorship deal until 2013.

SPL chief executive Neil Doncaster said the deal would provide a multi-million pound boost for its 12 member clubs.

"It demonstrates Clydesdale Bank's commitment across the league and underlines the success of our partnership," Doncaster added.

Clydesdale has sponsored sponsored Scotland's top flight since 2007.

The SPL clubs approved the deal last week and Doncaster said it came during difficult economic times.

"It's a great deal," he told BBC Scotland. "It's really important at a time when we know how much economic pain the clubs are going through; they're hurting like every other individual in society.

"So, it's really great news that Clydesdale Bank are continuing to support the SPL going forward and we're delighted.

"We look forward to our relationship going from strength to strength in the coming years."

Steve Reid, of the Clydesdale Bank, said it was delighted to extend its partnership with the SPL.

He added: "I'm equally delighted that, at a challenging time for Scottish football, we are able to continue our support and investment in the national game and we look forward to working ever more closely with the SPL and their member clubs to the benefit of everyone involved."

The new agreement will supersede the final year of the existing deal, with an option to extend it for an additional year, through to the end of season 2013/14.