The Manchester Evening News has announced that it is to continue sponsoring the MEN Arena until at least 2010.

The newspaper has agreed a five-year extension of the naming rights agreement, having already sponsored the biggest indoor-seated arena in Europe for the past seven years.

MEN deputy managing director Mark Rix said: "We are very proud to continue our sponsorship of this jewel in Manchester's crown.

"Since we began our association with the MEN Arena in 1998 we have seen the venue gain global recognition as the world's favourite indoor arena, as voted for by artistes and also the busiest arena on the planet simply by way of the sheer number of tickets sold.

"This deal underlines our continued commitment to investment in Manchester and the wider region."