A new partnership between Hampshire cricket and the Institute of Directors (IoD) promises substantial benefits for nearly 2,100 members of the institute's Hampshire and Isle of Wight branch.

The branch has opened offices at the Rose Bowl, just off the M27 junction 7 and the deal brings IoD members use of Hamp-shire Cricket's stunning new pavilion.

The atrium, at the pavilion's heart, will be open to them as a drop-in centre for casual meetings with clients or colleagues and they qualify for lower prices when booking the business suites overlooking the cricket ground.

It is the first time in the branch's 23-year history that it has had dedicated office space and a "home".

A substantial number of branch events will be organised at the Rose Bowl. The first will be the annual dinner on June 10, which is expected to attract 200 members and guests.

Michael Foote, branch chairman, says that events will also still be held across the two counties so that members outside the Solent area do not always have a long way to travel.

He said: "The branch needed a focal point, a base from which we can concentrate on improving the range and quality of the services we provide.

"The Rose Bowl was the obvious choice and we are delighted that Hampshire Cricket has agreed to us sharing these stunning facilities."

Hampshire Cricket managing director Nick Pike said: "We are very pleased. We believe the Rose Bowl will provide a perfect home for the IoD, whether it is for meetings and seminars or for social events alongside or outside cricket.

"We look forward to our new relationship."