A LAW firm has struck up a partnership with a former Premier League striker on brand ambassador agreements for a drinks firm.

Swinburne Maddison, in Durham City, worked on behalf of Harvey’s of Edinburgh with ex-Newcastle United striker Michael Owen.

The firm focused on Spey Whisky, a Scottish whisky brand owned by Speyside Distillers (SD), which is a subsidiary of Harvey’s.

The three year contract sees Owen, who scored 40 goals for England, become the global ambassador for Spey, which is already an established brand in the Far-East.

Bosses say the ex-footballer turned racehorse owner will make a number of trips to the Far-East to promote the brand.

Martyn Tennant, Swinburne Maddison partner, previously acted on behalf of Harvey’s in relation to its acquisition of SD in 2013.

He was approached to undertake legal work, providing advice on negotiations for agreements covering the UK and the rest of the world as separate territories.

He said: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to strengthen our relationship with SD and hope it may lead to further work in the future.

“Our ability to attract this type of complex instruction and calibre of client illustrates our position as a leading regional law firm and reinforces our reputation for providing robust legal advice within the sports sector.”

Owen, who scores 30 goals for Newcastle United, said: “I am delighted to become the worldwide brand ambassador for Spey and really looking forward to helping promoting the brand.”

Last year, The Northern Echo revealed how John Harvey McDonough, Speyside Distillers’ chief executive, said Spey, which has North-East roots, was returning to the US after he signed a £140,000 deal with Chicago based importer Stoller.

He said it was the first time it has been back in the country since his grandfather, Alec Harvey, moved casks of the whisky from Seaham Hall, in east Durham, to ships in the harbour.

Family legend says Mr Harvey set up a warehouse in the cellars of the abandoned building, selling and moving whisky while doing business across the Atlantic in illegal speakeasies.

Mr McDonough added: “We are very pleased with Swinburne Maddison’s legal acumen in the development of these agreements and thrilled to be working with Michael.”