DEDICATED Hereford United fans will be giving Edgar Street a lick of paint today to spruce up the surroundings.

But the long-term future of the ground is still in doubt with the club more than a million pounds in debt.

The issue surrounding Edgar Street is sure to be a hot topic at a forthcoming fans' forum on Friday, July 27, when Herefordshire Council leader, Terry James, is set to be quizzed on what is in store for the club.

On the pitch Director of Football, Graham Turner, said there were grounds for optimism for next season with club skipper, Matt Clarke and Ian Wright, committing themselves to the club and the acquisition of new signings Scott Voice and Scott Goodwin.

"Clarke and Wright were two significant signings, well received by the supporters," he said.

Turner added that season ticket sales had been boosted by the news and this view was echoed by Penny Bayliss, secretary of Hereford United Independent Supporters' Association.

"We are quite optimistic for next season especially with Matt Clarke re-signing, who was the supporters player of the year last season," she said.

But the recent decision by the FA decision to deny Conference clubs an extra promotion place was a bitter blow to fans as Penny admitted.

"All Conference fans were very disappointed that the FA didn't allow two to go up because it would make for such exciting play offs," added Penny.

As it stands the Conference winners will face a play off against the winners from another play off between the clubs finishing second, third, fourth and fifth.