AMATEUR sports clubs are being given a coaching lesson in finance, thanks to a new scheme.

SPORTSassist is an organised alternative to the traditional sponsorship of clubs by businesses.

Created by Glasgow law firm Caesar and Howie, businesses instead pay money to sports clubs which market their services.

The more successful the club's marketing, the more money it will rake in.

It will deliver products such as insurance, mortgages, accountancy services, marketing advice, website design and financial services.

David Borrowman, who is overseeing the scheme, hopes it will provide a more effective way for clubs to achieve long-term financial security.

He said: "My family and I have been involved with sports clubs at all levels for as long as I can remember.

"Although my rugby playing days are now far behind me, I have seen my children's sports clubs facing exactly the same struggles for new strips, equipment, transport and practice facilities as my club did 30 years ago.

"If clubs can motivate their officials and their members, they can create continuing revenue streams. This is self-help - not pleading with others for awards of money.

"If clubs and officials have the same passion for sport as we have, funding problems for clubs can be resolved permanently."

SPORTSassist is available to all amateur clubs in Scotland, with plans to expand the initiative into England.

David said: "The initiative has been designed to add to the flow of funds to a club - not replace existing monies.

"It is not intended to conflict with any traditional sponsorships a club may have, and if clubs have any other type of sponsor we urge them to keep these arrangements in place.

"If the initiative proves a success for their club, it may even make it easier for them to obtain traditional sponsorship."

Edina Hibs boys football club is one of the first groups to get involved. Secretary Steve Ponton said: "Our players benefit through new strips and equipment, our members through sound and professional advice and the club itself is now on a stronger financial footing."

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