BUSINESSES and entrepreneurs joined forces with Oxford United to kick off a new initiative.

The Business in a Box scheme involves representatives from firms across the county using a box at the Kassam Stadium to network and discover how to build links with the club before watching a game.

The first in what is hoped to be a regular event took place last Saturday as the U’s took on Tamworth.

David Pratt, Oxford United’s youth and community account manager, said: “Hosting events like this are a great opportunity for businesses to find out exactly what is happening at Oxford United and the opportunities that are there for them to partner the club at a very exciting time.

“We can offer a large customer base, a fantastic venue and a great team on the pitch, and we want to use these attributes to help businesses grow.

“It was also a good way to talk about what the club does in the community and with young people in Oxfordshire through the Oxford United Youth and Community Sports Trust.

“Investment in the Trust and having businesses partner us really is essential to the work the club does.”

l To discuss opportunities at the club, contact the commercial department on 01865 337517 or email commercial@oufc.co.uk