FOOTBALL followers are being urged to back FC Clacton on National Non-League Day.

Co-owner Stephen Andrews is hoping for a bigger-than-normal crowd for Saturday’s Thurlow Nunn League premier division match at home to Fakenham Town (kick-off 3pm).

Non-League Day is an initiative set up to coincide with the international break, whereby football followers are encouraged to go and watch their local side in the absence of Premier League and Championship matches.

Colchester United also have an away game, so it is hoped some of their supporters may be tempted along to the Rush Green Bowl.

“Non-League Day provides a platform for clubs like ours to promote the importance of affordable, volunteer-led community football, giving fans across the country the chance to show support for their local side,” said Andrews.

“We know many people from this area go to watch the likes of Arsenal, West Ham, Tottenham and Ipswich.

“But with none of those teams having a game, we’re asking those fans to support us instead.

“Come along, give us a try, grab a drink and take in a local game.

“We need more help and support and are a friendly, not-for-profit set-up, providing football for over 300 players (from under-sevens to the first team).”

Clacton have made an encouraging start to the season.

They are seventh in the premier division and through to the first-round proper of the FA Vase.

“The team have got off to a good start and on Saturday we entertain bottom-of-the-table Fakenham,” said Andrews.

“It should be a good game and we’d love to see more people there.”

Clacton have a League Cup date at Felixstowe and Walton next Tuesday.