Reds chiefs are hopeful that a new initiative will boost the club’s coffers to the tune of a million pounds.

Beginning tonight (Friday), Accrington Stanley is to release 9,999 shares over the next two years, which fans can buy at £100 apiece.

The shares, which will give voting rights to owners, are expected to be around four-fifths of the club’s equity.

Chairman Ilyas Khan currently controls 43.5 per cent of shares, but says those will be redistributed to shareholders on the register in 2013.

The cash raised is expected to be put towards a new stadium, as well as giving supporters the chance to own a slice of one of English football’s most historic clubs.

He said: "Accrington is one of England’s best-loved and most historic footballing towns.

"It was one of the 12 founders of the football league in 1888 and has phenomenal support worldwide.

"To own a share in Stanley is to own a piece of real football history.

"Shareholders will be making a direct contribution to the future of Accrington Stanley."

The first shares will be issued tonight ahead of the Cheltenham game.

ACCRINGTON Stanley will be holding a press conference to launch their 2011 share issue this Friday evening, ahead of their home game against Cheltenham Town. Chairman Ilyas Khan will join chief executive Rob Heys and fellow board members to answer questions from the press about the £1 million share offer and the future of the club. Please confirm your attendance by emailing alison@scottdawson.co.uk