BOSS Matt Ford urged businesses to become part of Pirates’ new voyage – and admitted financial backing would be vital if the SGB Premiership champions were to remain competitive.

Ford is seeking a new main team sponsor after Volvo Cars Poole’s two-season association with Pirates came to an end.

Discussing the importance of securing fresh backing, Ford told the Daily Echo: “To stay competitive, it is crucial we pick up a main team sponsor.

“It’s always a tough one to put your walking shoes on and walk through the door at every large business in the area where the receptionist is there to stop you seeing the managing director.

“I have been lucky enough by using the Daily Echo in the past to pick up more than one main team sponsor, including the biggest contract in club history.

“If people would like to receive countless hours of television coverage, immense coverage in the Daily Echo, on local radio stations and in every form of media, then I urge them to contact us.

“We would desperately like to have someone in for when the season starts.”

Ford has begun the process of considering which riders will make his 2019 line-up.

The likes of Chris Harris and Josh Grajczonek have already indicated they would favour extending their stays at Wimborne Road.