Town hits fever pitch for Kidderminster Harriers match

A rallying cry has gone out to get behind the club as it gears up for one of the biggest games in its history.

The Harriers overcame the odds to mount a title-chasing bid which reaches its dramatic conclusion this Saturday – and if the club wins promotion, it could be worth a windfall of up to £800,000.

And now bosses and fans are hoping for packed terraces at Aggborough come kick-off against Stockport.

Banners have been produced by match sponsors in a bid to inspire fans to spark a carnival atmosphere at Aggborough.

Civic leaders today lauded the achievements of players and backroom staff at the club for helping putting the town on the map and providing an economic boost for businesses.

They say the potential for league football to return to Kidderminster for the first time since 2005 will help the regeneration of the town and boost businesses.

Promotion could see the club cash in, with a hope for increased income generated by gates in the Football League which could almost double.

Increased television cash, prize money and merchandising revenue would also come in the club which only two years ago was battling the threat of administration.

The club's loyal independent supporters trust was at the forefront of helping rally enough cash to help save the Harriers back then.

And trust chairman Steve Millington said this season's promotion run could mark a new milestone for the history of the non-league club.

"If the team go up, it will put Kidderminster on the map," he said. "The fans will be painting the town red if the team goes up. It will be great if we can fill the stadium. The atmosphere will be incredible and it will be an experience that will live in people's memory."

But it will be a tense afternoon for the red and white army as they keep an eye on scores 90 miles north of Wyre Forest.

Table-topping rivals Mansfield Town have the advantage in the championship challenge thanks to a win against Hereford United on Tuesday night.

And they face their own crunch match at home to Wrexham which kicks off at the same time as the Harriers at 5.15pm.

The championship winners in the Blue Square Premier seal the only automatic promotion berth propelling the victor back to Football League next season.

Harriers manager Steve Burr said: "We have been on a great run of winning games in the last few months and we have to make sure we carry that into Saturday."

Harriers fever is at an all-time high as officials prepare to make Saturday's game one that both they and the club remember.

Club chairman Mark Serrell, said: "This will be the biggest game for many years. Promotion will not only be great for football and for the club but also for the local community.

"Considering the start of the season, it is an achievement to be in the play-offs".

Kit sponsor and fan John Davies added: "At the moment the club relies on benefactors and lottery fundraising but if it gets promoted, it could get between £650,000 and £800,000 in funding. We have a really good squad and the team has worked really hard to get to the top of the table."