Former Town striker Paul Mariner is backing the club's share issue. The former number nine is now coaching at Harvard University in the US but has been back at Portman Road this week.

Mariner said: "Having gone round the club for the past few days and seen the facilities, the café-shop, everything, it is a fantastic set-up. Yet there is the same feeling that I can remember from when I was here as a player. There is the same family atmosphere, which is very important. Joe Royle and the chairman have really kept that feeling.

"Supporters need to ask themselves 'what am I really doing here?' It could be the push to put them in the Premiership. I would really encourage them to buy shares. I know these are hard times, I appreciate that it is a lot of money, but to give a few shillings to the club would be fantastic."

FA Cup final goalscorer Roger Osborne has also backed the share issue as have Busted star Charlie Simpson, swimmer Karen Pickering, commentator John Motson and world darts finalist Kevin Painter.

Monday, January 19th sees the deadline for share applications.

Photo: Action Images

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