A GROUP of Swindon Town fans are hoping to save the medals belonging to one of the club's greatest ever footballers.

The Advertiser revealed the Harold Fleming memorabilia is due to go under the hammer later this month.

Fleming, who played for the club just before the First World War, was so feted by town fans that his name now adorns Fleming Way in the middle of Swindon.

And now Swindon supporters have decided his heritage should be kept at the County Ground.

Chris Scott, 72, who is organising the bid to raise £5,000 to pay for the sporting medals, said: "It's not just part of Swindon's footballing history, it's part of the whole town's history.

"They could be lost to the community forever when they go under the hammer.

"It's an opportunity for Swindon people to actually preserve some of the history of the town."

Mr Scott, a retired accountant who lives in Haydon View Road, is optimistic about reaching the target.

"I've had a lot of promises already," he said. "And I'm pretty hopeful we'll get what we need."

Among the haul to be auctioned at Bonhams in Chester next Wednesday are three Southern League champion's medals, from 1910-11 and 1913-14.

There is also a 1911 Charity Shield medal, awarded after playing against Manchester United in what was the highest-scoring Charity Shield Town lost 8-4.

Paul Plowman, 55, organiser of Swindon Away Supporters, is helping to set up the appeal.

Mr Plowman, a Royal Mail worker from Stratton, said: "It's a great opportunity to reclaim part of the club's history.

"It's not often an opportunity like this comes along.

"It would be great to bring them to the County Ground."

The pair have also enlisted the support of the Swindon Town Supporters Trust and the Supporters Club.

Mr Scott said: "The idea is for the organisations to jointly hold the medals and we'll make arrangements for them to go on display."

Spokesman for Swindon Town FC, Chris Tanner, said: "It's a magnificent idea. The medals have far more relevance here than anywhere else.

"Not many of our players have had international recognition. It would be nice to have memorabilia from this era."

And former Town star Iffy Onura, 37, who now coaches the youth team, said: "It's a nice gesture for these guys to step in and try and make sure the club can keep them. I'm sure they will be given pride of place in our trophy room."

Fleming, who died aged 68 in 1955, won nine England caps while playing for Town between 1907 and 1924, helping them get established in the Football League in 1920 when they became founder members of Division Three.

For further information on how to back the bid contact Chris Scott on 01793 523 375.

Gareth Bethell