Proceeds from the deal will contribute to developing the league and the growth in grassroots English football that has seen players such as Jamie Vardy and Chris Smalling rise through the ranks to become elite European football athletes.

Don Gillies, Director of BigFreeBet.com, said:

“We are very happy about sponsoring the cup and providing funding to help nurture local English talent. Long term, we hope to see more home-grown talent breaking through to Europe’s top leagues and sponsorship of this cup will be one small step to achieving this goal.”

Founded in 1894, the Southern Football League exemplifies the heritage and strength of local grassroots football in the UK.

The League Chairman has thanked BigFreeBet.com for their Agreement to sponsor the League Cup for Season 2017-2018.

League Chairman Terry Barratt said, “I am pleased that BigFreeBet.com share the same views that Non-League football is full of players with potential that could make it at a higher level. We are the shop window of opportunity”.

The BigFreeBet.com League Challenge Cup will run from October to April and will be available to watch through YouTube channels and on a selection of Club websites.

Last season saw newcomers to the League’s Premier Division, Hayes & Yeading United defeat St Ives Town 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after normal time.

There are a number of ex-Professional players now plying their trade in the Southern Football League who are due to appear in this year’s competition, including Jamie Cook, Jamie Cureton, Barry Hayles and Andy Sandell to name a few.