Rapanui is sponsoring the England Tiddlywinks team.
IT may not be the most fashionable of sports, but the image of tiddlywinks could be about to change thanks to ethical clothing company on the Island, Rapanui.
The Bembridge-based business, founded by brothers Rob and Mart Drake-Knight, has become the latest sponsor for the England Tiddlywinks team.
Stepping into the shoes of former sponsors — a pound shop in Cambridge — Rapanui has designed and produced a kit they hope will be able to cope with the rigours of high-level tiddlywinking.
"The polo shirts are tailored specifically to the ergonomics of an international tiddlywink player’s physique (XXL men’s), with slight adjustments to the playing arm for awkward shots, and were made from organic cotton for maximum breathability," said Rob.
"Our country’s greatest asset, being able to laugh in the face of adversity, has been lost in the media, saturated with photoshopped stars promoting a lifestyle that is unattainable. It is not healthy and doesn’t inspire you people to do the things that would really improve the quality of our lives.
"Being English, being entrepreneurs, embracing our society, culture, environment and entrepreneurial heritage can be cool.
"Young people need role models like the England Tiddlywinks team," he added.
The team, which is the most successful England team in international competition, was in action against the United States and was hoping to repeat its 2005 success, when the teams last met and England were comfortable winners.
Team member and tiddlywink world champion Dr Patrick Barrie, of Cambridge University’s chemical engineering department, said: "England vs US is a classic grudge match.
"It’s the oldest rivalry in tiddlywinks history and we’re all excited to fly the flag for England. I would cross my fingers but I can’t risk an injury."
Reporter: ross.findon@iwcp.co.uk