EFFORTS to launch a fans’ bid to takeover Tranmere Rovers FC have redoubled this week with a call for Wirral supporters to mirror backing received from further afield.

Out of more than 600 supporters to join the Supporters Trust’s campaign to take Rovers into community ownership, only 55% are based in the Merseyside area and considerable backing has come from outside the North West and overseas.

As the trust works towards its fund-raising deadline - £500,000 has to be secured by the end of 2013 - Rovers fans closer to home are being urged to unite behind their efforts to "put the club's future in the hands of those with its best interests at heart."

Chairman Ben Harrison said: “While we’ve been delighted to receive backing from more than 600 supporters based in all corners of the UK and around the globe, we need more supporters on the Wirral and across Merseyside to come off the fence and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their fellow fan.

“We know there are significant numbers of local fans who have not yet backed us and we urge them to do so as soon as possible."

Mr Harrison continued: “While we’re sure that [chairman and owner] Peter Johnson will sell the club in good faith, we are the only prospective owner which supporters can absolutely guarantee will act solely in Tranmere’s best interests.

“We have publicly encouraged other prospective buyers to share their vision for the club with supporters, but nobody has come forward.

“To sit on the fence is a gamble that Tranmere’s future owner will look after the club and its assets. We’re asking our local supporters, and particularly those who go to matches, to not take that gamble.”

As Christmas draws nearer, trust membership can be purchased as a gift for family and friends.

Memberships are available from £50, and a welcome letter and official gift certificate will be provided via email to anyone joining during December.

For more information and to join the campaign, visit www.tranmereroverstrust.co.uk.