SUPPORTERS of Bury FC are hoping the ubiquitous red and white Cross of St George will be replaced by blue and white favours druing a two week Shakers extravaganza.

Forever Bury, the club's fans' trust, are organising a "Blue and White Fortnight" in a bid to boost the club's profile in the town in the run up to the new season.

The scheme is the idea of Forever Bury director Dave Giffard who is hoping the club's image in the borough will get a massive boost from the two week publicity drive.

"We are asking local businesses, offices, shops, pubs and individuals to deck out their premises and vehicles in blue and white to show their support for their local football team," said Dave.

"Financial constraints over the past two years have meant the club has had to concentrate mainly on survival, while poor attendances during this period have made for very slow progress.

"Yet things are not all doom and gloom, the club's youth set-up has been very productive with a stream of talented young players coming through into the first team squad."

Some major businesses in the town have already promised to get involved with the event, including the Asda supermarket and the East Lancashire Railway, while the town's shopping centre, Mill Gate, have also shown an interest.

" Individuals can contribute by wearing their club shirts when out and about or flying the club flag from their cars," added Dave.

Bury's 150 public houses are being urged to get involved and sell the supporters' trusts own Forever Bury beer or hold fundraising events.

"We are asking everybody to do their bit and hopefully come down to Gigg Lane and tour the facilities during the two weeks," added Dave.

"They will soon see that they can help us in building a better and brighter future for the famous Shakers."

The Bury Times are throwing their weight 100 per cent behind the project and are asking any businesses or pubs who are aiming to get involved over the two weeks to contact the sports desk on 0161-762 6439 with their plans.