Matt Beech director of Widnes Vikings (and owner of Main Club Partner Maltacourt) has increased his ownership stake in the Club. Having joined the Board in June 2013 he has decided the time is right to increase his investment. Talking to widnesvikings.co.uk he outlined the reason for the decision: ‘’There's a real excitement around the Vikings at the moment, it’s not quite a renaissance yet but we are making progress year on year and the club really is in good shape.

“There are significant challenges in the sport and some of our fellow clubs are struggling to make ends meet, but we’re determined to run a sustainable club that will be able to compete well into the future.

" I've been thoroughly impressed with the ethos of the club, the values that all of the staff and players demonstrate day to day, whether that is around an intense training session or whether it’s the community work that underpins our strategy to be the central focus of the area. It’s those values that made it an easy decision for me to make a second investment into the club.

“I'd encourage all of the local business community to really consider whether they too would like to get involved with the/sponsoring the Vikings, my business has benefited from our involvement and it really does make a difference.’’

James Rule Widnes Vikings CEO commented: ‘’Matt Beech and Maltacourt have become synonymous with the Widnes Vikings.

"The business colours made a real splash this season on our away shirt and the support of Matt and Maltacourt was integral in bringing Gareth Hock to the Club. They are now our Main Club Partner for 2014 and have made a significant investment into the Club.

“I was delighted when Matt decided that he wished to join the Board and take an ownership stake in the Club. The fact that he has decided to invest further and take a bigger stake so soon after his first investment is obviously fantastic news.

"It is a real boost for our staff, coaches, players and fans that Matt likes our model and wants to play a bigger part in our future.

"His business acumen, network and passion for the Vikings is an integral part of our future and I am excited about what we can achieve working together alongside our fellow Directors.’’