DOVER Athletic's new main sponsor was revealed at Tuesday evening’s friendly with Margate as property developers Criccieth Homes.

The deal is initially for one year with an option to renew for two years.

The club were not willing to reveal the exact figure for this season but it is a healthy five figure sum.

The club’s shirts will bear the sponsor’s name but the stadium will still be known as Crabble.

Criccieth Homes managing director John Mahon explained: I’ve been in contact with Dover Athletic for a little while.

"Dover Town councillor David Lloyd brought Dover Athletic to my attention, and (club director) Roger Knight was the main contact at the club.

"I feel the new board are the right people to take the club forward and that’s why we’re sponsoring them."

Midlands-based Mr Mahon, who originates from Wales, is very keen on youth development. He says he is passionate about keeping young people away from crime, and believes youngsters who play football themselves are more likely to become supporters of their local club.

Mr Mahon’s first love is rugby and he has coached London Scottish, as well as playing for and coaching Dover Rugby Club’s 1st XI in the 1980s.

He sponsored Glasgow Hawks Rugby Club last season, who won the Scottish Premiership, and backed the Georgian national rugby team at the 2003 World Cup.

Mr Knight, who helped broker the deal, said: "The club is now in a strong position. But this will not affect the Danny Chapman situation as the player budget is strictly set.

"There was a lot of interest from a lot of places and we had three options. People want to help the club and have a lot of faith in the new board."

The club’s new away strip was revealed as well on Tuesday evening. It is a departure from the tradition all red or yellow and green, featuring blue and red striped shirts akin to Crystal Palace’s strip.

Tuesday's match ended in a 1-1 draw. Craig Cloke headed Dover in front on the half hour, and Sylvester Nnumudi equalised just before half-time.

Dover's pre-season build-up continues on Saturday with a run-out at home to Conference North side Hinckley United (3pm).