The partnership will specifically focus on the national governing body's six-strong Talent Squad, made up of athletes aged between 22 and 24 years who were selected through talent identification programmes, such as UK Sport's Power2Podium initiative in 2011.

The squad - Jeremy Rice, Kenny Howard, Jor'dan McIntosh, Jack Thomas, James Howard and Thomas Walker (pictured top, left to right), have completed their first non-competition season of 150 runs on ice across the United States and Europe and are now based at the sport's training base in Bath.

They are due to compete for Britain on the Europa Cup and NAC Circuits when the 2013-2014 season begins in October.

"We are delighted to welcome Ignite to the British Skeleton family as Official Talent Squad Partner," British Skeleton commercial director David Henwood said.

"As a sport we recognise how important it is to invest in the future and provide the necessary support and guidance to our young athletes starting out in the sport.

"We are excited about the talent in this group of sliders and now through this new partnership with Ignite, can ensure we give them every chance of success in the future."

Ignite's director Mark Long (pictured top, fourth right) added: "We are excited to be partnering with British Skeleton at a time when the sport has so much potential.

"The Talent Squad is so hungry to learn their trade and we can relate to their commitment and enthusiasm in the pursuit of excellence.

"As a sport they show great creativity in providing the very best support for their athletes and I hope we can add value and help identify new opportunities that will support the team's growth and success in the future."

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