A PETITION has been launched by Worcester City Football Club to gauge public opinion about moving to a state-of-the-art stadium.

County businessmen signed up to support the proposed football and B&Q development when they met at the football club's sportsman's dinner on Thursday.

And, as FA Cup fever mounted, club officials were hoping to find further backing at the 4,000 sell-out first round tie against Rushden and Diamonds today.

"We want to show city councillors the strength of support for this joint move between the club and the B&Q retail support," said club secretary Brian Lancaster.

"We're asking supporters and businessmen to fully back both options and so far we've received very positive feedback."

The leaflet urges fans to support the scheme and points out both developments are needed for the move to Nunnery Way to succeed.

Worcester City wants to move from its cramped St George's Lane ground to the outskirts of the city. It needs the B&Q retail development to help fund the move to Nunnery Way.

Last week, city councillors backed the move in principle until detailed investigations are carried out. The club has already printed 6,000 petitions to be distributed as part of its Superpool leaflets.

"So far we haven't had a bad response from anybody who has signed up. Everyone has been very positive towards this long-term campaign," said Mr Lancaster.

The crucial full council meeting where councillors can give their full backing to the scheme is to be held on Monday, December 10.