CASH-STRAPPED Kidderminster Harriers have taken the unprecedented step of asking fans to help them fund new signings.

The club has launched an online Crowdfunding appeal to boost manager John Eustace's new year transfer kitty.

The venture, called Give It 100%, aims to raise cash with the help of donations in exchange for different rewards.

The club has said that work is continuing behind the scenes to generate extra revenue for the playing budget but that it is being done with caution with the long-term security of the club in mind.

Harriers have generated additional revenue from an FA Cup run this season but, in accordance with a strict business model, only 40 per cent of this has been reinvested into the team. The same will be the case with any future revenue.

Chairman Colin Gordon explains: "We're at a time during the season when teams are able to throw money at their squads to get promotion - that's not our ethos and that's not how we operate, but that does not mean we have no ambition.

"We would like to be able to give money to the gaffer to help strengthen the team but excess funds just aren't down the back of the sofa waiting to be used. We can't rely on a long FA Trophy run or selling a player for 'X' amount and - even if we received money from those avenues, we have a duty to be responsible with that money and so only 40 per cent of it would be reinvested in the team. That could give us something to spend - or nothing at all.

"The 'Give it 100%' campaign will at least ensure we have something to work with and people will know that everything we get goes towards funding what we see on the pitch"

The club doesn't have a set amount in mind but has put together a package of prizes for those donating. Free match or hospitality tickets, a signed shirt, a chance to train with the team or have an audience with the team management are all on offer depending on how much fans donate.

The Crowdfunding campaign can be seen at crowdfunder.co.uk/harriers-give-it-100-in-january