The Cornish Pirates, Cornwall's top rugby club, have strengthened their links with a Duchy brewer.

Truro-based Skinners Brewery has agreed to sponsor the man of the match award for all but three of the Pirates' home national league matches this season.

A three-pack of the recently created Cornish Pirates Ale will now be presented to a top Pirate player at the end of 12 home matches. Skinners have also agreed to be match sponsor for the home game against Moseley, Birmingham's leading club, on Sunday, December 2.

"It's great to have such a go-ahead local business as Skinners getting behind us in this way," said Pirates marketing manager Rob McEvoy. "It is much appreciated by supporters and it promises to be a good partnership that will help us both grow together."

Brewery managing director Steve Skinner said: "We are delighted to have the opportunity to be involved with such a prestigious sports club. We are anxious to expand our involvement in the Cornish community, and sport in particular, and the Pirates are doing amazing things for Cornish rugby."