ANDY Preece has rallied supporters to turn out in force for Worcester City's pre-season friendlies -- and help provide the club with a bigger transfer kitty.

The St George's Lane player-manager is keen to add further names to his two summer purchases, former Stafford Rangers central defender Chris Smith and experienced midfielder Graham Hyde.

But City's stringent budget means Preece may only bring in one, possibly two, more signings ahead of the 2005/06 Nationwide North campaign.

It is in stark contrast to several rival clubs, such as Stalybridge Celtic, Redditch United and Hinckley United, who have demonstrated their ample chequebook size by drafting in at least half-a-dozen signings.

But Preece believes a series of bumper crowds during Worcester's forthcoming pre-season friendlies will help swell the coffers.

Seven fixtures are in place before the new league season kicks-off on August 13, with Preece's former side Carlisle United, Walsall and Oxford United among the sides visiting St George's Lane.

"It's important to get as big a crowd as we can for these games," admitted Preece. "The more we can get through the gate, the better. It gives me a chance to improve on my budget for players.

"Unless we can get some good crowds, things are going to remain tight. It's going to stay tough next season, unless our attendances improve.

"There are plenty of attractive friendlies coming up and that should interest the fans."

Preece added: "It would be great if there was a little bit more money around, especially when you see the likes of Redditch and Stalybridge signing six or seven players.

"But I've been in this position before with Bury where I did not have a penny to spend and other clubs had the financial backing to bring in seven or eight players.

"I had to rely on other aspects, such as better organisation and fitter players. Of course, it's a test to see how well we can do against these sides, but it would be nice to have the resources to bring in six or seven players.

"Saying that, I knew the situation at Worcester before I came here and I know how important it is not to get a club in trouble by chasing a dream."

n Former City non-contract signing James Coates is believed to have joined Nationwide North rivals Moor Green.

Coates proved a popular and impressive 'keeper last season when deputising for the injured Danny McDonnell before ending the season with two Conference appearances for Burton Albion.