BLACKBURN Rovers have launched a cheeky campaign to attract new supporters to Ewood Park - from areas where bitter rivals Burnley and Manchester United draw their support.

The club is looking to boost home gates and has stepped into uncharted territory for the first time to try and attract football fans with the promise of Premiership football.

The club insists that the new drive, which has been launched across the North West, is not designed to poach fans from neighbouring clubs - although after Chris Waddle's bitter attack on the Burnley boo-boys last weekend there may be a few Clarets fans who could be tempted!

Alan McColgan, Rovers' business development manager said: "We are not trying to persuade die-hard Burnley fans to change their allegiances and entice them away from Turf Moor. This is a chance for floating fans to watch high-quality Premiership football. While Manchester already offers Premiership football, tickets are almost impossible to obtain, so Ewood Park is the perfect alternative."

Meanwhile, Rovers will launch their Family Night Football programme next Thursday (December 11) for the reserve team clash against Manchester United at Ewood Park - and will be hoping to attract up to 8,000 fans. There will be pre-match entertainment including Rock FM djs, mascots and competitions. The fun starts at 6pm and tickets cost £3.

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