COUNTING the coppers for cash-strapped Bury Football Club!

That is Shakers mascot Robbie the Bobby who is rallying youngsters in the town to support the club after a big drop in numbers watching home games. Thanks to his efforts, the campaign has raised £4,019 so far.

Over recent months, Forever Bury, the supporters' trust, has distributed hundreds of free collecting boxes as part of a long-term aim to raise so much loose change that it could cover the Gigg Lane pitch!

Fans and businesses fill the boxes and return them to the trust for counting.

With Robbie's help, the appeal has received a triple boost.

Firstly, the local branch of Lloyds TSB has offered to take on the counting of the coins and banking of the donations on a regular basis. The first consignment has already netted a cheque from the bank for £311.

Secondly, with the trust's help, Robbie has launched his own Robbie The Bobby moneyboxes featuring a set of six different designs to collect. It is a chance for even the youngest Shakers fans to do their bit for the club.

Finally, Robbie's total commitment to the cause has seen him form his own club for youngsters, Robbie's Rookies. All his young fans who join receive regular newsletters with lots of fun and games as well as organised visits to Gigg Lane to meet players or watch a training session. He is hoping lots of youngsters will turn up with their families on Good Friday for the Bury FC celebration game £10 for adults and £2 for concessions on tickets bought before the day of the match.

For more information on joining Robbie's Rookies or to get in touch with Robbie, who is looking for a sponsor, contact Robbiethebobby@hotmail.com

l Individuals or businesses keen to start collectingcan obtain their first free box from the Forever Bury Visitors Centre at Gigg Lane, the Forever Bury beer stall at Ramsbottom's monthly Farmers' Market or by contacting business@foreverbury.org