91Èȱ¬

Fans of FC United - Manchester United's breakaway club - are being urged to invest in its future so it can build its own £3.5m ground.

The club wants to build a new 5,000-seater stadium near Newton Heath - the first home of Manchester United.

On Tuesday, it launched a community shares scheme, aiming to raise £1.5m.

"At a time when many clubs are in debt or in the hands of major investors, we aim to demonstrate that there is a real alternative," FC United said.

"We want to change the way football is run and financed by putting supporters at the heart of the game," general manager Andy Walsh added.

He said the new scheme would "make football history" and "leave a lasting legacy for future generations".

Individuals, aged over 16, and businesses will be able to buy shares from £200 to £20,000.

FC United currently plays at Bury's ground, Gigg Lane.

It is also seeking another £1.5m from grants for the stadium, and hopes to raise £500,000 through donations.

The club has applied to Manchester City Council for planning permission for the new ground. The application is due to be considered in November.