A Bolton-based business is to become Altrincham FC's front-of-shirt sponsor from the start of the pre-season.

AO, the electronics business, is to become the front-of-shirt sponsor starting at Colne FC on Saturday (July 6).

The Robins had the most successful season in their history last season, finishing in a play-off place in the National League before falling to Bromley FC in the semi-finals. They went full-time for the first time in 2022 and there was a big boost in the form of more than a million pounds in investment from a group of 20 investors last year.

It is the latest in a line of North West sponsorships for AO after AO Arena, Lancashire Cricket Club and Manchester Thunder.

Sam Mackenzie, Altrincham FC's chief executive, said: "I am looking forward to working with the team at AO and growing a long-standing relationship. This deal elevates us and shows how, as a club, we have an eye on tomorrow while still taking the best of yesterday along with us too.

"I thank them for their support and I am looking forward to their mascot, Bear, meeting up with our own mascot Rocky Robin. My competitive nature tells me it would be great to arrange a race between them at half-time in one of our games at the J.Davidson Stadium."

J.Davidson was the front-of-shirt sponsor for more than a decade and it is to remain as the stadium sponsor at this time.

This season's shirt is anticipated to be announced ahead of the clash with Colne FC at NORI Stadium in East Lancashire.

(Image: AO)

Vicky Monk, AO's marketing director, said: "We are delighted to join forces with Altrincham at an exciting time in their history. The club have gone from strength to strength in recent years, moving up two divisions and becoming a full-time professional club, and we are proud to support the next steps of their journey.

"This sponsorship underpins our commitment to supporting local sports and connecting with people across the region. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this partnership will have, both on the pitch and within the community."

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.