Newport County: Share launch hugely significant says Butcher

Terry Butcher bought shares in Rangers when he was a player at Ibrox

Manager Terry Butcher says Newport County Supporters Trust's share launch this week will be a "hugely significant" day for the club.

Trust members will be able to buy shares on the club following the launch at the Riverside Theatre.

The supporters' body is already running the club, but aims to take over the ownership of the League Two outfit.

"There's not three points at stake on Thursday, but it could be survival at stake," said Butcher.

"It could have a far more dramatic effect than winning a football match. In that respect it's hugely significant."

Newport were financed by Euromillions Lottery winner Les Scadding until he handed over his shares to the Trust in July.

They took over the running of the club on 10 August, but hope this week's share launch will raise enough money for them to take over ownership.

The team have made a poor start to the season, losing three of their opening four matches.

The Supporters Trust now has more than 1,000 members, with Butcher hoping for a big turnout on Thursday.

"It's huge for the club," said the former England captain.

"We'll have to wait and see how many fans come along and how much they want to pledge or want to buy.

"The club needs money. It's a club that needs to stand on its own two feet and wants to stand on its own two feet.

"It's got to have a big input of money and make sure we look after it better and plan for the long term future."

The former Ipswich and Rangers central defender intends to invest himself.

"When I was at Rangers as a player I bought shares in the club, I became a shareholder and I think it's very appropriate to do that now so I'll be putting my money in," he added.

"I want to back it because I want to have success for this club."