ONE of the oldest non-league football grounds in the country could be about to join the 21st century elite as major redevelopment plans are explored.

Proposals have been unveiled to install a 4G artificial pitch and undertake a major overhaul of the clubhouse and stands at Bacup Borough's Brian Boys West View stadium.

But first club officials and supporters at the Evo Stik League outfit must find £18,000 to fund preparatory work, as part of a new 10-year strategy, before planning applications are lodged and grant bids formulated.

June Worsley, of the newly-formed community supporters group at the club, said: "We want to put in a new 4G pitch, on spare land near the clubhouse, which will open up the club to the community, so we can look at catering for youth teams and ladies football.

"Now we need to get the message out the whole of Rossendale - we have put leaflets out and posters up across the valley. Before we even start making applications though we need to carry out a feasibility study to set us on our way."

Funding from United Utilities has given the supporters group the opportunity to produce their own merchandise, which is now on sale on matchdays. The group also has a base at 21 Market Street, as part of Bacup Social Enterprise, on Thursday lunchtimes.

The 'Join Our Journey' campaign, for the initial £18,000, has just under a month to run officially. It is estimated that the 4G pitch alone will cost around £60,000 to establish, with fencing and floodlighting.

Non-league football has been played at West View since 1889 and the clubhouse is a popular venue, not only for a variety of family events but charity fundraisers.

Ultimately the club want to achieve FA Charter Standard status, which would not only recognise their community offering but open the floodgates to a number of other funding opportunities.

Club bosses have already signalled that they want to follow in the footsteps of Fleetwood Town, another Lancashire club which is now playing in League One, from non-league origins.

The club has provided more details about the campaign on their website - wwwbarbfc.co.uk - or the supporters group can be contacted on 07805 093348.