FORMER Blackburn Rovers star turned business tycoon David Whelan is to cash in 3.5 million shares worth around £17 million, it emerged today.

JJB Sports said the sale would leave its executive chairman and other members of his family with almost 50 million shares, more than half of the company.

The sale announced today follows plans revealed by Mr Whelan in April to sell shares to fund a new stadium for Wigan Athletic football club.

Mr Whelan holds a controlling interest in the club, which last season gained promotion to the second division of the Nationwide Football League.

He has bought land in Wigan and today said he intended to start building a 25,000 all-seater stadium in the autumn at a cost of £20 million to be used by Wigan Athletic and Orrell Rugby Union club.

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