TWO major new backers have been announced ahead of the 2019 Somerset Day celebrations.

Organisers have revealed Street-based shoe giant, Clarks, and master butcher Pynes of Somerset, are both signed up to fly the flag for Somerset ahead of the event, on Saturday, May 11.

International shoe manufacturer and retailer Clarks was founded in 1825 in Street, where it still has its headquarters.

It employs 1,700 people across Somerset and will be encouraging people throughout the county to be passionate about the place in which they live and work, said Julian Yorke, global community and engagement manager.

“Clarks is a global business, but we are proud of our heritage and links to Somerset," he said.

"Somerset Day is a fantastic way to celebrate all that is great about the county and we are thrilled to be involved.”

Established in 1984, Pynes of Somerset has gained a reputation for selling the highest quality fresh produce and in so doing has nurtured close links with local farmers in the county.

Founder of Somerset Day, Nigel Muers-Raby, welcomed both to the event.

“We’re delighted to welcome Pynes of Somerset and Clarks on board," he said.

"Somerset Day is an opportunity for us to celebrate this amazing county we all live and work in. We’re excited to be working with them and to share our passion for everything Somerset Day stands for.”

They join some of the county’s leading businesses Evosite, Wyke Farms, Thatchers Cider, Milsted Langdon, Fox Brothers and Haynes in their support of Somerset Day, which is now in its fifth year.

Over the weekend of May 11, there will be events taking place throughout Somerset, and a full programme will be available on Somerset Day’s new website at www.somersetday.com.

From craft fairs to food fairs, tea parties to cider and cheese tastings, organisers promise there will be something for everyone.

In 2018, more than 200 events took place and anyone organising a Somerset Day event is urged to upload details onto the Somerset Day website, where full calendar of events will be hosted.

Mr Muers-Raby added: “The excitement is building to this year’s Somerset Day. Based on the success of 2018, we know that this year will be bigger and even better.

“With food and craft fairs, exhibitions, competitions, concerts and of course, tea parties, we’re hoping everyone in the county uses Somerset Day as a chance to come together and celebrate all that’s great about Somerset."