LEADING Trafford law firm, Slater Heelis, has announced a sponsorship deal with women’s cycle team, SunSport Velo.

The successful Manchester-based cycle race team is a collaboration between SunSport Coaching and Velo Espresso, a sports performance hub and café in Altrincham.

The aim is to build a professional women’s cycling team by developing and supporting rising local talent.

The partnership will see Slater Heelis - which has offices in Sale and Timperley - host a variety of joint events with the eight race riders, plus team management and support staff.

Chris Bishop, managing partner at Slater Heelis said: “We were impressed by SunSport Velo’s aim of raising the profile of women’s cycling in the UK and engaging with local families and children looking to enter the sport.

“Many of our own people and clients are keen cyclists so partnering with a team that shares our ethos of teamwork and collaboration was a logical step.

“Bringing together the worlds of cycling and business will help us both create some exciting partnership events and activities over the next 12 months.”

Stuart Percival, director and head coach at SunSport Velo, said: “The team made impressive progress throughout the 2016 season and we have great hopes for this season.”

“We are delighted to have Slater Heelis on board to support our ambitious plans for the 2017 season and pleased to welcome a sponsor with the same enthusiasm for the sport that we have.”