WATCHING Ipswich Town run out in the kit they designed and manufactured will be the realisation of a dream for staff at Ipswich based company ASD Europe Ltd.

By Matt Eley

WATCHING Ipswich Town run out in the kit they designed and manufactured will be the realisation of a dream for staff at Ipswich based company ASD Europe Ltd.

While they already produce kits and training gear for England, the Republic of Ireland and a selection of Premiership clubs they always hoped to design a strip for their home team.

Today, after months of groundwork, that dream has come true for the Star Lane based company with the launch of Ipswich Town's new away kit for next season.

Fans now have the chance to register their vote as to which strip, out of the two pictured, the Super Blues should wear on their travels for the next campaign.

One thing for sure is that Ipswich will be playing in claret and navy for the first time next season. They have had a variety of away kits over the years, including the infamous tangerine number, a cream and black striped shirt and an all red kit.

To show their delight at designing the classy claret kit ASD are giving away an amazing trip to Cheju Island, off the coast of South Korea.

Everybody who registers a vote for their favourite kit will be entered into the free draw. The lucky winner will win two tickets for a five-day break to Cheju Island, including tickets to watch England take on South Korea in their last friendly before the World Cup.

ASD managing director Neil Farrar is a lifelong Ipswich Town fan. He said he was delighted to be involved in the design of the new kit.

He said: "Something like this is to die for. It makes it all worth while.

"It's quite personal because we are supporters, it's also a very valuable contract and it has given us a great sense of pride."

Neil, along with ASD commercial director Chris Hoyle, followed Ipswich on their European adventure this season.

Recalling the amazing atmosphere at the San Siro Stadium, in Milan, Neil said it would be "amazing" to see thousands of Ipswich fans wearing their kit.

Ipswich Town are also delighted to be working with a company based in Suffolk.

Steve Mason, commercial manger at Portman Road, said: "We have worked with ASD for the first time to produce what we believe will be the best quality replica kit we have ever had.

"It's fantastic to be working with a local company both for them, as I am sure they as fans are very proud, and for ourselves."

Chris said that the kits and benchwear, which they have also manufactured, have been designed with the latest methods and fabrics with needs of the players at the forefront of their minds, with much thought also given to the what fans want to wear.

He said: "First and foremost it has to be player driven but that has to be balanced with a commercial need.

"When you buy something you buy it to make you feel good and that's what we want to get across for players and supporters. We don't want fans just to wear it on match day but also as a fashion item."

ASD, who have offices in France, Korea and Vietnam, have manufactured designs for brands such as Yves Saint Laurent, Reebok and Umbro. They also produce a range of clothes for corporate use. However the design of Ipswich's new away kit is definitely the proudest moment in the company's six-year history.

They are now hoping that next season Ipswich Town will be unveiling a home kit that has also been designed by ASD.

WEBLINKS: www.itfc.co.uk www.asdeurope.com