BOURNEMOUTH is set for a “massive” boost with the return of the Cherries to the Premier League.

The team’s second spell in the top flight of English football will bring an influx of money as well as exposure to a potential TV audience running into billions.

Adam Tovey, valuation director at shirt sponsor MSP Capital and a lifelong Cherries fan, said: “Everyone at MSP Capital has been behind the team all season, wishing them the best of luck on the pitch.

“Returning to the top flight is not only great news for the Cherries but the feelgood factor and the visiting support from other major clubs will be a massive boost for the economy of Bournemouth too.”

Neville Koopowitz, chief executive of Vitality, which lends its name to the club's stadium, said: “As a long-time supporter and partner of AFC Bournemouth, we were absolutely delighted to see the club promoted to the Premier League.

“A team playing at this level will further foster the strong community that exists within the town, attract further interest and investment into the area, alongside seeing more people head to Bournemouth to see some of the best football being played in the country.”

Ian Girling, chief executive of Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: “I recall the incredible boost it gave the whole area when they first went in to the Premier League and I can see that happening again without doubt. The club has very strong routes within the business community and has made us all so proud. Huge congratulations to AFC Bournemouth, this is brilliant news.”

Amy Spreadbury, who was sales director at Village Hotels before and after the Cherries’ first stint in the Premier League, now works in economic development at BCP Council.

She said the promotion meant increased awareness of the town around the world, more demand for accommodation and hospitality from visiting teams, more merchandise sales and more staff at the club and associated businesses.

There was also “the feelgood factor, which is immeasurable”.

Cllr Phil Broadhead, deputy leader of BCP Council, said: “We saw the first time they were promoted the almost immediate effect their rise had not just on Bournemouth but also the entire region.

“Instantly, name recognition of the town catapulted. People and businesses around the world suddenly knew who we were and where we are. And this has had a tremendous and lasting impact on investment into the area.”

Kevin Forbes, partner at Westbourne-based financial adviser Strategic Solutions, which sponsors the club’s academy for under-18s, Goal of the Month and community projects, said: “As long-term supporters and sponsors of AFCB, all of us at Strategic Solutions here congratulate Scott and all the boys and girls involved in getting promoted back to the Premier League.

“As academy sponsors we were also over the moon when so many of the guys we’ve followed and supported over the years have not only been given a playing opportunity but grabbed it with both hands this season.

“Bournemouth being back in the greatest league in the world boosts everyone and again will no doubt bring much needed business and revenue to many local firms as the team has put us firmly back on the global map again. Just what the doctor ordered after a couple of hard years for so many people. The atmosphere at the match showed how much it means to so many.”