Magners Irish Cider has confirmed that it has extended its sponsorship of the Magners League until at least May, 2011.

The Celtic League had been without a title sponsor until Magners came on board in 2005 and it has proven a hugely successful pairing, with the tournament now regarded as one of the strongest in club rugby.

"Our relationship with Celtic Rugby has been productive and rewarding over the last three years and we are delighted to be extending our partnership,” Stephen Kent, Marketing Director, Wm Magner Ltd said.

”Since the first year of sponsorship the stature of the Magners League has increased significantly; the next two seasons will mark a new stage in the development of the tournament, particularly with the introduction of season ending playoffs and we are excited about the prospect of being involved in this process."

The sponsorship renewal is obviously a massive boost for the competition given the uncertain financial climate.

"I am delighted that our partnership with Magners Irish Cider will be continuing until at least May 2011,” David Jordan, Director of Celtic Rugby, enthused.

”The support and enthusiasm that Magners has shown in partnering and investing in our league has been self evident to all our stakeholders.

”In the three years since Magners have come on board we have seen a dramatic increase in attendances at matches and a substantial improvement in the competitiveness and attractiveness of our tournament.

"I believe that it is fair to say that the Magners League now commands huge respect in European and World Rugby and the success of our teams when they transcend into other tournaments, and when Magners League players take to the International stage, is demonstrated by the fact that last season all European cross border silverware was held in Celtic Rugby hands: Munster, European Champions; Ospreys, Anglo Welsh Cup holders and Wales, grand slam RBS 6 Nations winners.

”This season the trend looks even better with attendances ahead of last year by 20 percent, four teams in European quarter finals and Ireland taking the 2009 six nations championship with a grand slam.

"Magners Irish Cider has played an integral part in creating the credibility and success that the Magners League now commands and everybody within Celtic Rugby looks forward to continuing that success, especially with the introduction of end of season play-offs which is an important step forward in raising excitement levels even further."