The Football Writers' Association and William Hill have announced a new three-year title sponsorship.

The FWA and William Hill have been partners since 2013, producing weekly podcasts as part of their tier partnership - but now the country's biggest bookmaker has taken over title sponsorship of the association.

New FWA chairman, Patrick Barclay (see picture above), said: "We've enjoyed a great working relationship with William Hill over the last three years and we are delighted they've decided to become our new title sponsors for the next three years - and hopefully beyond.

"They will be the major supporter of the Footballer of the Year Dinner, our Tribute Night at The Savoy and we will continue to broadcast a weekly William Hill podcast.

"I am also happy to say they will be backing our highly successful FWA Live events with the first one in Leicester at the end of the month. These are exciting times for the FWA. We've seen a surge in membership over the last twelve months and we want to build on that.

"We want to encourage everybody who works in the football journalism industry - commentators, bloggers, not just the traditional writers - no matter their age, gender or ethnicity.

"William Hill share our vision and with their support, I am sure the FWA will continue to make huge strides in improving the lot of football journalists".

Alex O'Shaughnessy, chief marketing officer for William Hill, said: "We're delighted to become the new official sponsor of the Football Writers' Association.

"We've built a strong working relationship with the FWA over the last few years and it's great to be increasing our support for the association".