ANDY KING'S bid to bring success to Swindon Town could be influenced by fans refraining from that extra pint and pouring their money into a more constructive 'pot'.

The County Ground boss may be free to bring in extra players ahead of the big kick-off for 2003-4 if the Red Army Fund captures the imagination of fans and the business community in the coming months.

Slogans such as 'Make the Difference' and 'Could You Be The Extra Man?' were used to illustrate the scheme laid out by Swindon Town Supporters' Trust chairman Tony Norris at the organisation's annual general meeting last night.

Money donated to the Red Army Fund rather than spent on 'one for the road' could make all the difference to the manager.

And the clear message to supporters is that their money will directly affect what happens on the pitch.

If all goes smoothly, an official launch will take place in pre-season, leaving King with a valuable extra source of funding.

Norris said: "I think the scheme will be particularly valuable to the manager in terms of bringing in loan players which might not have been budgeted for.

"If at some point in the campaign, he feels an extra player is needed, he will hopefully have money available to make it happen.

"What has to be made clear is that those donating the money will not have a say in who the manager signs and the financial arrangements regarding the player's deal will not be made public.

"But as I said, it is about directly affecting what happens on the pitch.

"Imagine the feeling if a player the supporters have paid for scores the goal to stave off relegation or secure a place in the play-offs?"

A variety of fundraising avenues will be pursued, from simple one-off donations, standing orders, seat sponsorship and the establishment of a wall of fame at the County Ground.

Norris said: "Clearly if someone wants to put in a million pounds at the launch, then terrific.

"But imagine the difference, particularly when it comes to getting a loan player in, that a thousand fans paying £5 a month would make.

"It's not going to break the bank. You are effectively being asked to sacrifice the cost of just half a pint of beer per week."

But before King can start utilising the fund, which will not be used to subsidise the club's budget, it will need to receive the blessing of the Football League.

An official agreement will also have to be drawn up between the scheme organisers and the club.

The man who will have the responsibility of spending the funds raised was not able to attend last night's Trust AGM but he has already expressed his support for the initiative.

King said: "I think it's a great idea. If supporters want to raise funds, then fine."