'Your club needs you!'

This puzzling state of affairs has prompted the highly unusual step taken by Limavady United this week. They have felt the need to launch a public appeal for supporters to come along to Rathmore Road and see some exciting football.

The club recently celebrated the amalgamation of Wallander and Alexander a full 125 years ago. There are goals galore every other Saturday at Rathmore Road and the current team play entertaining football yet the club are miffed by the shortage of fans.

The interest in football in Limavady is easily apparent by the number of English and European replica jerseys being worn around town. Limavady United are asking why a highly respected footballing town with an exciting team are failing to attract crowds.

A spokesman for Limavady United said: "We have a really exciting product but for some reason the players are not getting the support which their football deserves. The Club is very conscious of its responsibilities as the representative of the Borough in sporting circles. In the past, we have called on local people to rally round their local team and on occasions this has proven to be successful.

"However, to achieve our goal of winning the title and bringing some positive publicity to the Borough, we need everyone to join with us in our push for honours. The transformation in the teams form this season has been remarkable. For some reason, this had not been reflected in attendances."

"Limavady has a great reputation as a football town. Many famous players have graced the pitch at Rathmore Road, the Club is proud of the fact that it draws its support from all sections of the community. We are also extremely grateful for the level of support which we have received from

local businesses.

"The Committee now feels that it is appropriate to call on the entire community to come out and join us. We want to recruit new members to the Club and are particularly keen to encourage young people to attend matches. Parents can be assured that their children will benefit from a safe and family friendly environment."

The club spokesman has launched an appeal for suggestions to improve Limavady United football club.

"If any friend of the Club has any suggestions for ways in which any aspect of the Club can be improved we would welcome feedback. Any suggestion or offer of advice will be considered. There are many people who are involved in football at the lower levels of the game who have a great deal of experience which could be used for the benefit of the Club and by extension sport in the borough in general.

"We are therefore appealing through the paper for any suggestions that can improve the Club and take it forward. The Committee will consider carefully any suggestions. We know that times have been difficult in the Borough in recent years. A strong and vibrant football team is something in which all locals can share, and can be one small step towards improving the mood of

people in our town."