CHERRIES say they will “become one of the greenest sporting outfits in the UK” thanks to a new partnership with Utilita.

The electricity and gas supplier have entered into a three-year agreement as the official energy and sustainability partner for the club.

Utilita has already started to deliver the installation of over 600 solar panels at Cherries’ brand new Canford training complex.

This will see the club slash its annual CO2 emissions by 30,000 kilograms, saving £1.5million in the process.

The installation is set to be completed by the end of this summer.

Archie Lasseter, head of sustainability at Utilita, said: “It’s really encouraging to see a football club invest in solar, particularly one of AFC Bournemouth’s gravitas.

“This industry-first installation is, if you’d excuse the pun, a perfect cherry on top for the remarkable new facility in Canford.

“Thanks to the array, the club will become a leading force in the drive for sustainability across football.”

Utilita will also collaborate with the club on various campaigns to promote sustainability, including a 20-week initiative with the Community Sports Trust.