TOP brass at Chivas Brothers have given their backing to Dumbarton FC's ambitious stadium move.

Alister McIntosh, manufacturing director at the Dumbarton-based Whisky and Gin manufacturer, has written to West Dunbartonshire Council's planning department, voicing support for the project.

The Sons want to move from their current base, in the shadow of Dumbarton Rock, and move to Young’s Farm.

The plan is to sell off their ground in Castle Road and move west to Young’s Farm and build a new 3,000-seat stadium.

Also part of the project are plans for as many as 200 new homes, along with leisure facilities, a restaurant, gym and training area.

And Mr McIntosh is keen to see the proposals given the green light.

In a letter to the local authority he said: "I am writing on behalf of Chivas Brothers to express support for the application for the proposed mixed use development incorporating a football stadium and associated enabling development.

"Chivas Brothers and previously Allied Distillers have had a long association with the club and we want to see the club develop and strengthen for the benefit of the town.

"The inclusion within the development of additional sporting facilities is of particular interest as this would be of benefit to our employees and to the wider community.

"Promoting more active, healthier lives forms an important part of our company ethos and as such we are happy to lend our support."