CO-CHAIRMAN Bill Waterson reflected on a ringing financial endorsement of Altrincham's latest off-field initiative and proudly declared: "There's never been a better time to get involved with this club."

Less than a week after inviting contributions to fund a three-pod fan zone in one corner of The J.Davidson Stadium, Alty are already a third of the way towards reaching their initial £15,600 target.

Earlier this week, the running total stood at just over £5,000 for a structure that will be completed and open for business in time for the start of next season, and Waterson had no hesitation in hailing it as further evidence that the town as a whole is buying into a new positive era in Alty's fortunes.

With two promotions in three seasons under Phil Parkinson and Neil Sorvel delivering Vanarama National League football to the Alty faithful and ambitious plans for transforming the stadium drawing widespread praise, Waterson believes more investors will want to come on board and keep the club moving forward.

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"We are calling our initial goal of £15,600 a flexible target because, if we exceed it, we can add extra features to the fan zone and make it even more appealing," he said.

"That's how we are thinking as a club, and it's based largely on the incredible support we've had from so many fans and backers who clearly share our vision for making sure we keep progressing and going in the right direction.

"The money raised so far has come from around 100 individuals and a number of corporate donors now into double figures.

"That is significant. We have repeatedly sung the praises of our supporters for rallying round whenever called upon – not least with a level of generosity that saw us through lockdown – but now we are seeing businesses recognising we are a club going places and wanting to be part of the journey.

"TWe welcome that. We are proud to be representing the town on a national scale next season, and we want to reflect the drive and ambition that has always been associated with Altrincham.

'That is why the door is always open to new backers and new investment. Believe me there has never been a better time to get involved.

"There is unprecedented interest and excitement in the town, and our aim is to give our fans the safest and best match day experience. The Fan Zone gives us a whole new hospitality facility, and we are delighted local businesses and our supporters are making it happen in such decisive fashion."

Alty have also acted swiftly and decisively in making season tickets available to fans, despite recent uncertainty in some quarters, with NHS workers being offered tickets at concessionary rates. Details are at www.altrinchamfc.com/club/tickets.