The Crown Ground is to be renamed, after Accrington Stanley agreed a new sponsorship deal with an international drinks company.

Colane Tropical Mineral Water UK Ltd, based at Oswaldtwistle, confirmed plans to become Stanley’s Stadium sponsor and signed an 18-month deal.

But Accrington Stanley chief executive Rob Heys said it is not yet known what the new name will be.

He added: "We are delighted to announce this partnership with Colane – we feel it’s a natural fit for Stanley and we’re proud to be working with them. This sponsorship deal is a further significant step for the club to become financially more secure. The support we are slowly building up across the community is very pleasing,"

The Crown Ground has previously been known as the Fraser Eagle Stadium and the Interlink Express Stadium, following previous commercial link-ups.

Nicky Jayne, from Colane, which has operational facilities in Brazil, said: "We’re a local business so we believe that supporting a local football team really brings the community together – it’s important to us to see them do well.

"I used to watch Stanley as a child with my dad so we’re looking forward to what this partnership will bring – we’ll be taking our staff, drivers and families along to the next home match to get everyone involved and celebrate the deal as a company."

Stanley are still offering fans and businesses the chance to buy a share in the club. Shares are £100 each and earn the shareholder a vote at the club’s AGM and own a piece of history.