21/6/01 STOURPORT Swifts have made an early plea for Wyre Forest people to support them in their first Dr Martens League Western Division season.

Rod Brown's men are hoping to consolidate their position - but the ambitious club could well prove to be a surprise package.

And assistant boss Gary Whild admitted they hoped to take advantage of away days for neighbours Kidderminster Harriers.

Whild said: "Hopefully, we will get more through the gate.

"We're talking about a decent standard of football here and during the last few games of the season I did note a few people with Kidderminster shirts on.

"Maybe they are more likely to recognise Dr Martens League football than the Alliance and if Kidderminster are away, hopefully a few of their fans might come to watch us.

"The club is run very professionally anyway and a lot of things are in place here. I believe we have someone lined up to sponsor our pre-match tracksuits.

"If we can get 200 watching us, that would be great. And other clubs will bring more travelling support."

Swifts will play Stourbridge at home in a league champions/cup winners clash on August 4.

On August 11, they are travelling to take on a non-league team from Oxford and before that are confirmed clashes with Bromsgrove and Boldmere at home.

The club, who are set to display the 2000/20001 season's silverware in a town centre shop, have also organised a night to celebrate the championship.

They are inviting former managers and players to the event at Walshes Meadow from 7pm on Saturday, June 30. Anyone interested can turn up or call John McDonald on 01299 822088 or Nigel Green on 01299 822993.