Villa to promote charity

Premier League outfit to replace shirt sponsor with charity logo

Last updated: 3rd June 2008

Lerner Randy Aston Villa owner

Lerner: Charitable gesture

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Aston Villa are to replace their shirt sponsor with the logo of a children's charity next season.

Villa are to promote Acorns children's hospices for free after turning down a number of commercial offers in agreement with club owner Randy Lerner, manager Martin O'Neill and all board members.

And Villa's head of community Duncan Riddle believes the move will help the Premier League club to 'give something back' and to help the charity raise public donations.

"Yes, the shirts have monetary value, but they also have emotional value to fans and this is something to give back to them," Mr Riddle said.

Scudamore praise

David Strudley, the chief executive of Acorns, said he was amazed at and immensely thankful for Villa's generosity.

Mr Strudley described Villa's decision to help Acorns as extraordinary, saying: "They listened to us when we told them that we needed a platform - they really did want to help the community."

Richard Scudamore, the Premier League's chief executive, also welcomed Villa's decision.

"Real credit must go to Aston Villa for being the first Premier League club to use their shirt sponsorship to highlight their charity partnership with Acorns," added Scudamore

"I am sure that Acorns' association with Aston Villa will be a great help in raising awareness and funds for the excellent work they undertake."