The company is now backing the Scottish International Open this month and the Welsh Grand Prix next year having already supported the World Matchplay Bowls Championship for the last three years.

"The Co-operative Funeralcare has been one of our most supportive and active sponsors - so we are delighted that the organisation has strengthened its association with us in this way," said WBT Director Richard Maddieson.

"This is a historic deal for WBT, with The Co-operative Funeralcare becoming the first sponsor to support three different events in a season."

George Tinning, deputy managing director of The Co-operative Funeralcare, added: "We are delighted to have extended our sponsorship of the WBT throughout Britain.

"This marks our commitment and passion for this sport which we have been supporting at grass roots level across Scotland and Wales and many parts of England for several years.

"We are very pleased to have been given this opportunity to support all three major international events and we are proud to be associated with such prestigious events in the world of bowls."

The Co-operative Funeralcare Scottish International Open, the first WBT ranking event of the new season, will take place at Dewars Centre in Perth from November 6-13.