Co-operative Bank and CIS to sponsor ITV1's The Bill

by Sam Matthews,, Brand Republic 11-Nov-04, 11:00

LONDON – The Co-operative Bank and Co-operative Insurance Society are to sponsor 'The Bill' on ITV, the first joint sponsorship deal for the two brands following the formation of Co-operative Financial Services in 2002.

The 12-month contract includes sponsorship of the twice-weekly police drama on ITV1 and midweek re-runs, and a Saturday evening omnibus on ITV3. The Co-operative Bank and CIS will also appear on branded trailers and off-screen licensing activity, as well as having an online presence.

'The Bill', ITV's longest-running drama series, is watched by an average 11m viewers a week, according to Barb figures.

Craig Shannon, executive director marketing for Co-operative Financial Services, said: "We look forward to developing a strong partnership with the team at ITV over the coming months and building a great campaign around the broadcast rights."

The deal was brokered by TCS Media North and begins this week.

Co-operative Financial Services was formed in 2002 to bring together

the Co-operative Bank, internet bank Smile and the Co-operative Insurance Society.

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