BOLTON Arena will be renamed under a new deal with a local firm.

From July 1, the site will be called the 'Stateside Foods Bolton Arena' after a three-year partnership with the pizza manufacturers was signed.

John Ashley, head of commercial at Bolton Arena said: "The partnership with Stateside Foods has developed over the past six years.

"By increasing their sponsorship to become the new naming rights partner, this demonstrates the benefits of our working relationship.

"Stateside Foods are one of the largest employers in the local area, we aim to assist them to enhance their brand awareness.

"With over one million visitors every year, the arena is the ideal platform for Stateside Foods to reach the local community."

The arena features indoor tennis courts, football training pitches, and meeting and event spaces.

They also hold sports classes for youngsters and hold a Sports Camp over the school holidays.

The arena will feature branding both inside and outside the venue from mid-July.

In a statement about their new role as naming rights partners, Stateside Foods said: "We are delighted to be announced as the new naming rights partner of Bolton Arena.

"Both Stateside and Bolton Arena have worked very closely for a number of years, with key Stateside events being held at the arena.

"As one of the area’s largest employers, Stateside believes this is a great platform for attracting new local talent to our ever-growing business whilst supporting a great local partner.

"The facilities at the arena are second to none and are available for people of all ages and abilities.

"It is something we are proud to put our name to, and why we already offer all our employees a fully funded membership.

"As a business, Stateside shares a very similar philosophy to that of Bolton Arena “Building an active healthy community”.

"Stateside believes that sport and leisure activities can have a very positive impact on a person’s wellbeing both physically and mentally."

Since 2013 the arena has played host to Stateside's family fun day and festive events. The arena previously signed a deal with USN for naming rights.