A RIBBLE Valley company has won a £250,000 deal to sponsor the Great Britain Cycling Team.

Sports nutrition specialists Science In Sport (SIS), based in Brockhall Village, will be the team's official supplier of sports drinks and nutrition products after signing a four-year deal, which will take them up to the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

With more than 40 athletes to care for, the team requires large quantities of nutritional products as it trains and competes around the world.

SiS will work with riders and coaches in the development of new products and to provide crucial day-to-day support.

Peter Slater, the firm's marketing manager, said: "Science In Sport is extremely pleased to be entering into this partnership with the Great Britain Cycling Team.

Over the years we have had strong individual links with many of Britain's leading cyclists which has enabled them to perform at the highest level.

"Working closely with the riders, coaches and staff in one of the most demanding endurance sports will enable us to further enhance our statement as leaders in sports nutrition, as well as demonstrating our continued commitment to sport."

SIS was the brainchild of keen sportsman Tim Lawson, a nutritional expert who formed the company in 1992.

Its main brands include GO, a hypotonic energy drink; PSP22, a high energy drink; GO Bar, a nutritious energy snack, and REGO, a recovery drink.

The firm has developed close links with cycling and its products have been endorsed by Chris Boardman and Bradley Wiggins, who are both British Olympic pursuit champions.

Great Britain team performance director, Dave Brailsford, said: "SiS has a really strong background in cycling.

"Their understanding of our sport, combined with their technical knowledge, will keep us at the cutting edge of sports nutrition technology."

The GB Cycling Team picked up four medals at each of the last two Olympic Games, with golds for Jason Queally in Sydney and Chris Hoy and Bradley Wiggins in Athens.

The team has also collected 18 World Track Championship medals since 1999.