CHAMPIONSHIP winning Bury are ready to launch a new away kit for their return to Division One.

Following the recent sale of Le Coq Sportif (Matchwinner) the Shakers have had to move quickly to secure a deal for the 1997/98 season.

After interviewing several companies, all of whom were chasing the Bury contract, Commercial Manager Nev Neville came down in favour of Burnley-based Super League.

"The company (Super League) is run by former Bury assistant manager Frank Casper and his partner Joyce Pickles who are both regular visitors to Gigg Lane and have a genuine feel for the club. That affection was a major factor in their appointment," declared Neville.

Discussions about how the the new kits will be launched have already taken place and requests from supporters were taken into consideration when reaching a decision on timings.

In the past the Shakers have launched two new kits at the start of every season. Next term the launch will be staggered. The new away kit will be revealed in August and the new home kit will be ready for Christmas.

Bury will kick-off the season playing in this year's home kit and, again after listening to supporters, the new away kit colours will be the reverse of the home royal blue and white. The existing away shirts will be used as a third kit should the other two clash.

The strips will run for approximately eighteen months. The new away kit will change at Christmas 1998 and the home kit will change at the start of the 1999 season.

Neville reckons this will be better for everybody and is looking forward to working with Joyce and Frank.

"They are both very helpful and enthusiastic people and the quality of their kits is excellent," he said. "I'm sure the fans will not be disappointed especially as the shirts will be cheaper then last year."

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