Andy Murray Backs Binos' Fans Bid To Buy Club

The 'BuyStirlingAlbion' campaign launched on 6 May 2009 has received a major boost with the news that tennis superstar Andy Murray has been signed up to its campaign. The tennis star, along with brother Jamie, received their memberships from their grandfather, Roy Erskine, who played for Stirling Albion in the 1950s and 60s. And footballing legends, Billy McNeill and Tommy Gemmell, members of the famous Lisbon Lions team that became the first UK team to win the European Cup have also pledged their support for the BuyStirlingAlbion campaign. West Bromwich Albion fan and high profile England supporter, comedy star Frank Skinner has also put his weight behind the Stirling Albion fans' efforts.

Roy Erskine said: "I spoke to Jamie and told him what was going on with the BuyStirlingAlbion campaign and he immediately called Andy and they both were happy to lend their support to this important community project." Billy McNeill, Lisbon Lion and former Celtic and Scotland captain said: "Your campaign has shown that football at the grassroots and in the community is a vital part of our game. I am sure what you are striving for can be achieved. Good luck." Tommy Gemmell, Lisbon Lion and Celtic and Scotland legend added: "I think everybody involved in football will applaud your efforts. I really hope you succeed." Frank Skinner said: "Any football club with the word 'Albion' in its name must be kept alive at all costs, so I hope the campaign is a massive success and Stirling Albion FC go from strength to strength." Carlos Alberto, captain of the illustrious Brazilian World Cup winning team from 1970 said: "Good luck with it…… a lovely idea." Gordon Ramsay said: "Good luck in your quest I'll be keeping my eye on how you are doing." Colin McAllister said: "I know a lot about football as my granddad played for St.Mirren so I hope you save your local team." Justin Ryan added, "I hope you succeed it's a great idea." Neil Oliver, broadcaster and presenter of Coast and History of Scotland and Stirling resident said: "Good luck with the campaign it is great cause which will I am sure will let your team make its mark in history". Scottish DJ Heather Suttie said: "I have a soft spot for the Binos - my Dad has supported them since he was a wee boy."

All of this high profile support follows other well known names who have pledged their support including:

• Cristiano Ronaldo and the team at Soccerade
• Snooker legend Stephen Hendry
• Footballing brothers Gary and Steven Caldwell
• Top chef Nick Nairn

Paul Goodwin from 'BuyStirlingAlbion' said: "With Cristiano Ronaldo already pledging his support for us, it is fantastic that we now have what we are sure is a future world number one tennis player and grand slam winner in Andy, and a Wimbledon Champion in Jamie, pledging their support to help us not only buy the club but to develop it as a real community asset for future generations. The support our campaign has received since its launch just six weeks ago has been breathtaking. We can't thank everyone enough, be they high profile or not, for their support to date."

The 'BuyStirlingAlbion' campaign is offering football fans across the world the chance to become part of the first ever 100% fans' owned football league club in the UK for just £40 with a guarantee that if the bid fails they will get £35 returned to them. Stirling Albion FC has been for sale for several years and, with no serious bids forthcoming, is at risk of going out of business with spiralling costs and little sign of any investment. Formed in 1945, Stirling Albion finished in 5^th position in Scotland's Second Division this season.