MORE than 10,000 people have backed a campaign by Bolton MP David Crausby calling on the Premier League to do more to support grassroots football.

The petition, set up by the MP for Bolton North East, asks for the Premier League to give 7.5 per cent of broadcasting rights to community football projects.

After reaching the milestone of 10,000 signatures, it will now receive a formal response from the Government.

Mr Crausby said he was delighted that his petition attracted so many signatures so quickly.

“It shows that there is a growing recognition that it’s only fair to ask the Premier League to share the wealth to protect grassroots football and give every child the chance to play”, he added. “I hope that people will continue to spread the word and take us to 100,000 and beyond to really up the pressure on the Government and those at the top of football to take action.”

If the Premier League gave more to grassroots football, Mr Crausby argued, it would help clubs maintain and develop community facilities and keep the costs of playing organised sports low. Under their current deal, the League receives around £5 billion from TV rights over three seasons.

Should the petition reach 100,000 signatures, the issue will be debated in the House of Commons.

You can sign the petition here.