Next season Oakham United FC will be launching its supporters' club.

The aim is to have a closer relationship between the club and supporters.

At a cost of £10 for adults and £5 for junior members it is hoped to offer several benefits in return for membership. Matchday sponsors will have free automatic membership.

One benefit will be price discounts on purchases at retail outlets in the Oakham area.

This is in the early stages of planning but to date Lands' End have agreed to offer a substantial 25% discount to members of Oakham United Supporters' club and Two Chimps coffee will give a 10% discount on all purchases.

It is expected that more local businesses will follow suit.

There will also be a members' discount on the use of the Oakham United FC facilities, which can be hired for a variety of functions.

Other ideas in the pipeline include travel to away games with a system of car-sharing and a monthly newsletter or Supporters' Forum on the OUFC website.

It is also hoped to start a supporters' club shop selling badges, football programmes and magazines in the clubhouse.

Any donations of football memorabilia to the club shop will be very gratefully received.