Church Stretton water supplier scores major contract

Wenlock Spring, based at Much Wenlock, has been named the official water supplier of Star Sixes, a tournament which will take place at the O2 in London between July 13 and 16.

The event will see 12 international teams competing, including England, Brazil, Germany, Spain, Italy and France.

Players taking part include Steven Gerrard, Alessandro Del Piero, Roberto Carlos, Carles Puyol, Robert Pires, Michael Ballack, Michael Owen, Deco and Rio Ferdinand.

Matthew Orme, director of Wenlock Spring, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to support a great family sporting event.

"The players defined a generation, and football fans will enjoy seeing some of their heroes play in their national colours once more. Wenlock Spring is proud to be a part of such a unique event, which will highlight the importance of water as the best form of hydration."

The Orme family have been bottling at Wenlock Spring, at Wolverton near Church Stretton, since starting the business in 1989.

It has already won a number of high-profile contracts, including being served to passengers in the first class carriage on Virgin's Pendolino and Super Voyager rail services.

The tournament will kick-off with a group phase, followed by knockout stages, culminating in the Star Sixes Final on July 16. The competition will be aired live on Sky Sports.

Neil Bailey, chief executive of Star Sixes, said: "We're delighted to welcome Wenlock Spring on board as an official partner of the inaugural Star Sixes tournament.

"Playing at The O2 will be thirsty work for the legends of world football renewing old rivalries, and Wenlock Spring will help keep them playing during an intense four days of competition. The high quality of Wenlock Spring’s premium water is in keeping with the calibre of players that will be competing to become the first winners of the Star Sixes trophy.”

Spring water is sourced from an ancient spring dating back to 1086 at Wenlock Edge.