Exeter City Football Club has today put on record its thanks to long term sponsor Flybe.
The airline, which has been put into administration, has backed the club since 2003 – for 17 consecutive seasons, in what is understood to be the longest-established sponsorship deal in football.
In a joint statement chairman and director of football Julian Tagg and Supporters’ Trust chairman Nick Hawker, said: "We would like to put on record our thanks to Flybe for their support over the last 17 years. Flybe signed that deal when the club was in dire straits and at one of the lowest points in our history and it has been a valuable and strategically important relationship.
"We are sorry to hear of the airline’s situation and the impact this will have on their staff and the local area.
"This news is not unexpected and with the contract due to expire at the end of the season, our commercial team have been exploring all the opportunities with a view to signing a new front of shirt sponsor."
As a small gesture, the club are offering all Flybe staff free entry to Monday's under-23 Premier League Cup match against Newcastle United. To access a ticket please bring along a form of proof of employment.