THE expansion of Sixways into one of the country's biggest club grounds would not be possible without the backing of sponsor npower, according to chairman Cecil Duckworth.

The Worcester-based energy suppliers agreed a new three-year 1.5million deal with Warriors and Duckworth believes the sponsorship is a key factor in the club's new ambitious development plans.

"It's a fantastic deal for the club," he said. "We've really appreciated their support over the last few years.

"We are now embarking on a whole new phase of development. Without their help, we wouldn't be quite so expansive or be able to be as big."

Although Duckworth's financial backing has been a major factor in the Warriors success story, he insists the club must be able to sustain itself through ventures both on and off the field.

"My objective is for this club to be sustainable long-term," he said. "It's important to develop our non-rugby activity."

Warriors boosted their income this season with a run to the semi-finals of the European Challenge Cup and they have also hosted two Under 21 Six Nations internationals.

And Duckworth believes there could be more international matches in Worcester once the developments are completed.

"Having the capacity, the facilities and the access will certainly assist us in that direction," he said.

"We had two under 21 games which were successful, more successful than I expected, especially as the RFU chose to have an 'A' game at Gloucester on the same night, which I thought at the time was a bit of an odd decision.

"In the end, it didn't matter because we sold out, which was fantastic."

Meanwhile, npower are more than happy to agree a new deal with the club that neighbours their Worcester head office.

Kevin Peake, the company's head of customer marketing, said: "We're delighted to announce our sponsorship deal with Worcester Warriors, particularly because so many of our staff are fans.

"Our offices are next door so we share a lot of facilities.

"Although, as a national company, we have 33 offices around the country, Worcester is a very special place to us."