Fan favourite pleads with community to back crisis-hit Burscough FC

Nov 19 2009 by John Siddle, Ormskirk Advertiser

BURSCOUGH FC legend Ken Hodge last night pledged to back the supporters’ 100 Club campaign to keep the famous local side afloat.

Striker Hodge, who led the Linnets to a famous victory in the Lancashire Junior Cup in 1967 said it is vital that community rallies around the Linnets.

Fans must raise at least £1,500 a week to cover the most basic operational costs at Victoria Park.

Locals are being asked to sign up to a £10-per-month donation scheme or make a one-off charitable offering.

Mr Hodge, 66, of Liverpool Road, became an instant fan favourite when played a starring role in the cup run, netting against Wigan Athletic.

He said: “I will certainly be making a donation to the supporters’ club. It is absolutely vital that the community gets behind the club in its time of need.

“Burscough is a community club, part of the fabric of the village. We cannot let it disappear.”

Linnets supporter of 60 years, Ronnie Lawson kicked off the 100 Club campaign by making a £500 donation.

The 81-year-old, a frequent fundraiser for the club, urged others to donate “whatever they can”.

He said: “I cannot imagine life without Burscough FC, it is the mainstay of the village.

“So many people have put so much effort into making the club what it is and it would be horrible to see it go. We have got bills up to our eyes and we really need to local community to come and support us.”

lA FUNDRAISER will take place on Thursday, November 26 in The Barons with speaker Duncan McKenzie and comedian Mark Langley. £12 tickets include a hot pot supper. Contact Keith Forshaw on 07815 734946.