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20th December 2012

McLean’s announces new support package for Glentoran FC Glentoran FC has agreed a significant financial and business support package with McLean Bookmakers which will secure the long term viability and sustainability of the East Belfast Club, according to Club Chairman Terence Brannigan.

Unveiled as a sponsor at the start of the 2012/13 campaign on a three-year deal, McLean’s has committed to providing an additional and significant financial and business investment to build upon the progress made at the Club and secure long term cash flow management with a view to its relocation in a new state of the art stadium in East Belfast.   Kevin Milhench, who has over thirty years experience at senior management level within the Northern Ireland business community, will join the Glentoran Board as part of the deal.

Commenting Glentoran FC Chairman Terence Brannigan said:

Today’s announcement is great news for Glentoran Football Club as it ensures our long-term viability and sustainability.  We have previously undertaken some restructuring and whilst we have made significant strides in changing our business practices, recent events have highlighted that this process is very much a work in progress. McLean’s financial package and business support, which is ring-fenced to sit outside of the sponsorship agreement, is integral to ensuring a successful resolution to our cash flow management and securing the long term future of the Club.

As part of this package we are looking forward to Kevin Milhench joining the Board to support our on-going restructuring and, with his skill set in commercial property, advising and supporting the Club in securing an exciting new stadium in East Belfast.

McLean’s, which employs over 300 people across 61 shops, is the largest independent bookmakers in Northern Ireland and according to Managing Director Paul McLean, this announcement is good for the Club and for the local community.

Commenting, Paul McLean said: Over many years we have made a significant investment in East Belfast, whether it’s through our nine offices which employ some 60 local people or our recent sponsorship of Glentoran Football Club.  This new package is an extension of our continued investment in the East of the City and we are honoured to support and build a sound future for Glentoran which is so cherished within the local community.

We believe that Glentoran has a very bright future, we are excited by the potential of rebuilding the Club from the bottom up and we look forward with confidence to a successful future both on and off the pitch.