MP and die-hard Forest Green fan David Drew has urged the community to rally to the aid of the cash-strapped club, write Rachel Clare and Ashley Loveridge.

The club has had two winding up orders in the past three months but have managed to fight them off.

They need to find £200,000 to £300,000 and £100,000 immediately for the Inland Revenue and wages.

Drew said: “It is beyond comprehension that we could lose this wonderful institution but unless we act quickly and decisively that could happen.

“Of course this means losing not just the football club but the wonderful facilities we now have at the New Lawn, something we must not just savour but use to a much greater extent to keep the pounds running in.

“I hope that others in the community will do what they can to help meet the temporary shortfall in finance brought about by a number of difficult circumstances.” Forest Green chairman Trevor Horsley added: “We are in dire straits, we have had one or two hiccups over the last couple of years and things have come to a head now.

“We are struggling to meet the debts we have incurred on the new stadium and we need to put an appeal out to the community.”

Horsley said he had a positive response from the club’s main sponsors, Stroud & Swindon and Marstons’ Brewery, when he met representatives last week.

Tim Barnard, chairman of the club’s supporters’ trust, said: “I am backing Mr Horsley’s campaign to double the crowd on Saturday.

“I would like people to bring friends, family and occasional supporters of the club to create a cracking atmosphere and raise vital funds.”

The FGR Supporters’ Club Committee released a statement saying: “We would like to make a passionate plea to our fans - this is the time when Forest Green Rovers needs all of you.

“The team needs large crowds to help in the on-pitch battle against relegation, and the board of directors needs large crowds to help in the financial crisis off the pitch.”

If you are interested in becoming a member of the supporters’ club or would like to make a donation at fgrsupportersclub@live.co.uk What do you think about the financial crisis at Forest Green? Have your say below.