A BUSINESSMAN will be promoting local football and other sport teams as part of his company's second anniversary celebrations.

John James, 24, of Allendale, who runs We Buy Cars - Hexham, is hoping to raise awareness of the importance of grassroots football teams in Tynedale.

As part of their second business milestone, the company is sponsoring Hexham FC.

John said: "The sponsorship decision was influenced by the realisation of the significant number of teams in Hexham and surrounding areas, such as Humshaugh, Haydon Bridge, and Chollerford, that are seeking sponsors.

"Grassroots teams often struggle to secure funding, and as a local SME, we feel compelled to contribute and support them.

"This need extends beyond football; other sports like basketball, rowing, and cycling are also facing similar challenges.

"We hope to raise awareness about the funding issues faced by these teams, especially when it comes to acquiring kits and marketing for additional funding.

"Many of the coaches involved with grassroots sports are unpaid volunteers, and we believe that promoting local businesses sponsoring local teams would be a positive initiative."

We Buy Cars in Hexham also has a 6ft inflatable football on the advertising car which will tour around Tynedale.

John adds: “We spent four hours trying to strap it on to the car, which was quite the challenge, but it is worth it to show our support."

Later this month, John will be unveiling the Hexham FC team's new kit.