Flybe, principle sponsor of Exeter City Football Club since 2003, have once again show their commitment to the Grecian cause by arranging flights for Matt Grimes and Christy Pym as they return from international duty with England's under-20 squad.
The duo were called up for Aidy Boothroyd's Young Lions squad for an international tournament in the Netherlands on the understanding that they would be able to return early, in time to face Hartlepool United at St James's Park on Saturday, October 11. However bringing forward their departure from the international camp would mean that Exeter City having to foot the bill to get the boys home.
But Flybe reacted to the news by offering Grimes and Pym a complimentary flight on their route from Amsterdam to Exeter – an offer that was gratefully accepted by the club.
In addition, Exeter City Supporters Club have also made an offer to contribute towards bearing the costs of hotels and any coach or taxi transfers. The finer details are yet to be arranged but Exeter City are pleased to have accepted this offer as well.
Exeter City vice-xhairman Julian Tagg, said: "Flybe have backed Exeter City through thick and thin over the years and this is just the latest gesture by the company in support of the club.
"We are hugely proud and honoured that Grimes and Pym have been selected to represent their country, but there was a danger of leaving us out of pocket for allowing them to play for England.
"So this show of support from Flybe is hugely appreciated, because of the way it alleviates the pressure on our club's cash-flow and as a gesture towards supporting our talented team."
Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale added: "We need to thank England under-20 manager Aidy Boothroyd and the FA for allowing the boys to come back early in order to play this weekend.
"And we also owe our thanks to our main sponsor Flybe for going out of their way to provide flights from Amsterdam to get our boys home in time."
Pete Martin, chairman of Exeter City Supporters Club, said: "We make sure that we provide transport to every away game for fans through Grecian Travel, but I think this is the first time we have put on a journey for our players!
"The role of supporters is to rally round behind the club and chip in where possible, so we're glad to be able to offer some help to City by offsetting the costs of transfers and hotels for Christy and Matt."
