When Heswall FC, along with the rest of grassroots football, returns to action, the club will be backed by sponsorship from Cato Crane Auctioneers, which has bases in Liverpool and on The Mount in Heswall, and an ever expanding business in Wirral in particular.

Cato Crane's owner, John Crane, who spends most of his time appraising and supplying fine antiques, has stepped forward to back the team which has great ambitions to return to the West Cheshire League first division and rediscover the club's glory days. In the past, Heswall has been League Champions on seven occasions.

Now John is doing his bit to promote the club. He said: "I think it's important to support people who are putting in a lot of effort into community work. Football isn't just about the big boys on the telly. I'm always pleased to go there and catch up with like minded souls, and be part of something that's putting so much into local football. I also thought sponsorship might lead to me being asked to play centre forward, but so far the call hasn't come."

Robbie Matthews, Chairman of Heswall Football Club, said: "We are delighted to welcome John and Cato Crane Auctions on board as a new club sponsor. John is a real character and a nice guy. He has shown great interest in our club and attended games when we were allowed to play. The reputation of Cato Crane is outstanding and I've received positive comments from a number of people since announcing our link up."

With the backing of Cato Crane and other sponsors, Robbie and the club are looking forward to brighter days for both players and the Heswall district.

"Off the pitch," he added, "we are looking to become an integral part of our local community. We are really keen to support local businesses and highlight the Heswall area and be a part of the renaissance of the town.

"We are also eager to support those in our community and across the Wirral who may be having a tough time, and are determined to play our part in supporting those in need and be more than just a football club, as we did over the Christmas period with our Hamper Appeal with the amazing support of our sponsors.

"We invite all local people to join us for games. Once the current situation comes to an end, we will have a game at Gayton Park every Saturday afternoon. We currently have two adult teams, our first team and a reserve team for male players aged 16 plus, then we have a youth team for players aged 16 - 18 years.

"As well as the senior sides, we also have two under 14 male sides, playing on a Saturday and Sunday. We also have a veterans team for players over 35 years.

"We are also really thankful to all our supporters. We couldn't do without our loyal and amazing fans.

"Oh, and a special mention for one of them, Tony, who comes along for a cup of tea and puts out the corner flags every week, a priceless gesture from a really great guy."

Cato Crane Auctioneers joins fellow Heswall FC backers, kit sponsor 107 Dining Room, and the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.