PRE-match entertainment at the Valley Stadium is about to change but not without the help of the town.

Redditch United are about to take the bold steps of having a cheerleading team to encourage the Reds as they seek promotion this season.

Chairman Rod Laight as dismissed criticisms the project is just a gimmick, saying it is about boosting the players and the fans.

He said: "It is a great initiative. We will be the first non league club to have their own cheerleading team and it will be very exciting.

"The whole thing is about adding to the atmosphere before and during the game. I think the fans will love it."

But for the scheme to get off the ground two groups of 16 young women aged 14-21 are needed as well as a name.

Trials are being held at the Valley stadium, Bromsgrove Road, on Wednesday, August 18, beginning at 7pm.

Cheerleading coach Sara Williams said: "We are really looking forward to this. It is not going to be all pom-poms and American razzmatazz but it is about supporting the team and lifting the fans.

"It is important anyone interested in joining is prepared for hard work and very dedicated."

The cheerleaders are also seeking a name and are asking Redditch Advertiser readers to submit suggestions.

The club has offered a replica team shirt and match day VIP treatment to the person whose name is adopted by the cheerleaders, but be quick as the they are looking to get in action as soon as possible.

Send your entries to Cheerleader Competition, Redditch United FC, Valley Stadium, Redditch.