GEOFF Goodwin has marked the end of an era at Moss Lane by announcing he will not be continuing as Altrincham's shirt sponsor next season.

After stepping down as chairman earlier this season, to concentrate on his business interests, the coach company boss has decided to relinquish his role as the club's main benefactor.

While the sight of Alty stepping out without Go Goodwins emblazoned across their shirts may take some getting used to, Moss Lane chiefs have wasted no time seizing the opportunity to launch an exciting new phase in the club's fortunes.

In a bold initiative aimed at maximising earnings and strengthening community links, they have invited bids for sponsoring not only their shirts but the ground as well - complete with the enticing prospect of naming rights.

“It is an open book at the moment,” said chairman Grahame Rowley.

“We are open to suggestions, but there's no question this is a fantastic opportunity for someone to take on the mantle and develop a close, successful and rewarding relationship with the club.

“Geoff was not particularly football-orientated to begin with, but the fact that he stayed so long and always spoke from the heart when he talked about Altrincham shows the effect this club can have on you.

“There are practical benefits as well, because the name of Geoff's company has expanded locally to a significant degree during his time here, and he has recently opened up new bus routes. He would be the first to admit his association with the club has helped achieve that.

“We are a community-run club, and that is reflected in the 600-odd youngsters currently playing football under the banner of Altrincham FC.

“The local community will always be important to us, but we are ambitious about pushing on and need help with that. We need a new partner to keep moving forward, and the possibilities could extend to having their name on the stadium. We are quite happy to discuss naming rights and logos round the ground, because the benefits would be both mutual and considerable.”