A mutual interest in football has helped spark a new strategic alliance between two businesses in Norfolk and Suffolk.

Norwich-based Comms Supply has unveiled a strategic alliance with Woodbridge-based IT support company, React Computer Partnership.

Karl Alderton, managing director of Comms Supply, an EDP Future 50 firm, said that the two companies will be working together to provide businesses across Norfolk and the East of England with a complete IT and connectivity solution.

React CP was founded in January 1997 by Richard Pledger and his brothers Alan and Francis and specialises in providing business customers across the East of England with a single contact point for all their IT needs: from hardware to software installation to comprehensive support.

Richard Pledger said: 'It was a mutual interest in football that first got me talking to Karl at a networking event, but once we'd finished chatting about sport we moved on to IT and telecoms.

'When we are recommending IT solutions for our customers it makes perfect sense for us to be able to supply broadband or any other type of connectivity, such as fibre connections that they may require,' he added. 'In the past we have used large, well-known suppliers but they can provide a very one-dimensional service. Broadband isn't always the right fit and our business is all about creating bespoke solutions for our customers. We needed a partner who works in the same way. We often recommend that customers have two broadband connections at one site so that they are protected should problems occur. Comms Supply can provide us with these options.'

Mr Alderton, who founded Comms Supply in January last year, said the new strategic alliance was a great way of marking the first anniversary of the firm.

'We've expanded into larger premises in Norfolk but are committed to growth in Suffolk and across the East,' he said. 'Suffolk is an extremely exciting market place for us. There is a varied business landscape with some innovative start up businesses working alongside established, high-profile organisations.'