Celebrity supporters are backing Accrington Stanley’s historic bid for a place in League One.

With only a few days to go until the Reds take on Stevenage in the first-leg play-off match, a host of fans have said they will be cheering on the mighty Stanley.

And we can offer you the chance to win tickets to the second leg of the semi-final.

Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh said she was thrilled to see how far Accrington Stanley has come in just a few years.

And words of support were also sent from cricket legend David Lloyd and comedian Jim Bowen.

Corrie star Julie, who plays Hayley Cropper on the TV soap, said: “It would be absolutely amazing if they could get up there. It would just be incredible for all of Accrington.”

Cricket legend David Lloyd praised the work of manager John Coleman and his coaching staff. He said: “The manager and the assistant manager are a key part of the team's success. The way this team has performed with the resources they have is incredible. John Coleman should be manager of the year.”

And former Accrington Grammar pupil Jim Bowen wished the Reds good luck in their bid to reach the third tier of English football for the first time since the 1950s. Jim said: “I think they have a good chance of doing well in the play-offs.

“I hope a lot of supporters from Accrington will be able to attend the match as they can make such a huge difference."

If the team were to win promotion in the play-off final at Old Trafford later this month it would be the first time they had reached the third tier of English football since the late 1950s.

The team were unbeaten in their last 12 home matches.

Hyndburn Council Leader Miles Parkinson said: “I think all of Hyndburn will be keeping their fingers crossed for them.

It will be great for the town and for everyone connected with the club to see them go up again.”

The Reds will travel to Broadhall Way for their first match on Sunday, 15 May at 6.30pm.

They will play the home-leg of the contest on Friday, May 20 at the Crown Ground at 7.45pm.

If successful against Stevenage they will then play Shrewsbury Town or Torquay United in the final at Old Trafford on Saturday, May 28.