Developer scores a brace with Hyde community football and cricket sponsorship

The master developer behind the proposed Godley Green Garden Village, MADE Partnership, has chalked up an early double success after agreeing two major sponsorship deals with much-loved grassroots sports clubs in Hyde.

In a commitment to strengthening community ties long before a single brick is laid, MADE has become the new training-kit sponsor for Hyde United FC’s women’s team. In a second agreement, the company will also sponsor the score box at Hyde Cricket and Squash Club, based on Werneth Low Road.

Kate McClean, head of planning at MADE Partnership, said the moves reflect the company’s ambition to invest in the heart of local life.

“Our focus is on developing and supporting communities and these are the first steps in our relationships with both clubs that will strengthen their ability to support women’s and young people’s sports participation,” she said.

“When we approached the clubs to explore how we might help we were delighted to see their commitment to girls’ and women’s sports development.”

Both clubs will channel the sponsorship into improving training environments and match-day facilities, enhancements expected to benefit young players, families, and the wider community.

Councillor Eleanor Wills, leader of Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council, welcomed the early engagement.

“It’s great to see MADE, the master developer for Godley Green Garden Village, building early relationships with the community, particularly via our sports clubs, which play such an important part in family life.”

Deputy leader Councillor Andrew McLaren added: “Forging these kinds of relationships with local grass roots sports clubs will be vital to the successful integration of new families into the wider community and will be a positive boost in membership for both Hyde United Football Club and Hyde Cricket and Squash Club.”

Hyde Cricket Club, one of the pillars of the Cheshire County Premier League, currently fields 11 teams, including four senior men’s sides, seven junior teams, and a newly formed ladies’ team. MADE’s support will help the club invest further in its long-term goal of expanding grass-roots cricket.

Club chairman John Buckley said: “Building on success doesn’t just require a sustained focus and commitment, but also resources to develop the infrastructure needed to encourage more of our community to participate in sport. Every penny of this funding will have a positive impact on our members and visitors and I’m grateful to MADE Partnership for its backing.”

Meanwhile, Hyde United FC’s women’s team, current GMWFL champions, sharing the title with Manchester Laces after a points tie, will benefit from upgraded training wear and renewed investment in the club’s thriving girls’ section.

Angela Hartley, director of junior football, said the partnership will help inspire the next wave of local sporting talent: “We are extremely grateful for the generous sponsorship of our training wear and aim to build a strong and lasting partnership with MADE for many years to come. Our highly successful women’s team has become a pivotal part of the football club, playing a key role in supporting and driving the growth of our girls’ section. Support like this helps us continue to develop and inspire the next generation of female players.”