ERIC Clapton has become the sponsor for Bowers and Pitsea Under-13s football team.

The link between guitar legend and local team came about because the Under-13s manager Steve Murdoch makes Clapton's boots.

Perhaps the star feels he owes a debt of gratitude to Steve.

The rather dour Clapton has been looking a lot happier in recent photographs. Now we know why. Comfy feet.