FOREST Green have issued another plea for extra help and investment as their season of struggle continues on and off the pitch.

Back in October Rovers gained approval for a change of structure at the top, with shareholders replacing members in the running of the club, and that move has raised close to £100,000 in extra funding.

At the inaugural meeting of shareholders, assurances were given that the club were fulfilling their immediate responsibilities in terms of loan repayments and tax bills for the financial year.

However, with the New Lawn stadium still a huge burden and other factors putting pressure on the purse strings, the long-term outlook is less certain.

A club statement reads: "Everyone needs to recognise that the stadium complex, which opened in 2006, required additional funds to complete its construction and fitting out.

"These had in part to be financed from commercial loans, and the board had ensured that these were serviced. One plus side of the fall in interest rates was that the capital on those loans has reduced much quicker than anticipated.

"However, other activities in the company have had to be supported by the directors through personal loans. This could not carry on indefinitely and now the company needs to search for new investment.

"Adding to the overall downside is the bad weather since the start of the year, and the recent non arrival of Chester City for a scheduled fixture led to significant additional financial loss."

As well as hard cash, Rovers are appealing for volunteers with skills in sales, marketing and hospitality who can spare a few hours each month.

On the pitch, despite a tumultuous season and the very real prospect of relegation, attendances have held up well.

The statement continues: "Whilst the playing budget had been reduced pre season, the financial income from other areas of operation had suffered greatly in the last 12 months.

"In hindsight, the priority has been far too much on footballing activities and now is the time for everyone to re-focus on the whole package that we can deliver for the local and wider community. Forest Green Rovers have some of the best conference and leisure facilities in the county, together with a first-class footballing pedigree.

"We must not waste the years of endeavour and commitment that has resulted in so much to be proud of."

At the meeting it was confirmed the current board of directors would remain in place until the first AGM of the Limited Company on May 20.

A further shareholders meeting has been set for March 18, while shareholders will be staging a fundraising dinner on April 9 to showcase the New Lawn facilities.

Anyone wishing to purchase a ticket should contact the New Lawn admin office on 01453 834860.