A football club with a reputation for FA Cup upsets is appealing for investment to save it from administration.
Hereford United, who claimed their place in English football folklore by knocking Newcastle United out of the FA Cup in 1972, are hoping their traditions - and prospects of growth - will attract financial backing in their bid to raise £1.5m.
The Conference Premier side were playing in League One just four years ago but their subsequent fall from the football league has sent the Bulls to the brink of collapse.
"This club is on its knees and we need help," Hereford United chairman David Keyte told Standard Sport. "We've slashed costs and wages over the last 18 months. The community and supporters have been wonderful, coming up with various sponsored events but we are still in big trouble."
The Bulls have gone from receiving £750,000 from the Football League to just £47,000 from their participation in non-league football's top tier, while average gates have dropped from 2,500 to 1,700 per match, which means the club receive around £10,000 less every weekend than they used to.
In addition to the famous Newcastle win, Hereford United's ground Edgar Road has also played host to a number of memorable cup ties including draws with the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and West Ham, when a team including Geoff Hurst and Bobby Moore were frustrated by the spirited underdogs before eventually overcoming them in the replay at Upton Park.
Keyte added: "Our priority is to achieve the financial stability to help us return to the football league, but we also have the opportunity for residential and commercial development on both ends of the ground, thanks in part to a very supportive local council, so we feel there is a unique opportunity here."
In addition to seeking major investors, the club have also launched a share issue, with shares available for just 25p. To find out more email club@herefordunited.co.uk
