THE 'phenomenal' response to an anti-homophobic football kit has worked wonders for a Bury-based business.

SKkits, which operates out of its office in Holcombe Brook, has been inundated with requests after producing what they believe to be the country's first rainbow kit.

The idea for the colourful gear, which is based on the LGBT rainbow flag, was that of Altrincham FC's Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) team.

Non-league Altrincham — who normally play in red and white stripes — proudly wore the kit during last Saturday's home match against Bradford (Park Avenue).

The design and production of the shirts is down to Ian Senior, who owns SKkits.

Mr Senior, aged 58 from Holcombe Brook, said: "The response we have had really has been amazing. It beggars belief.

"We have sold between 400 and 500 shirts across the world in just over one week. It has made such a statement. It has sent out a clear message that there is no place for homophobia in any walk of life, let alone football.

"At last Saturday's game, we had sold out before kick-off.

"It has been phenomenal and it has put our brand on the map."

Within one month, the idea was voiced, the shirt designed, a sample made, the kit proofed and given the go-ahead from the Football Association and National League, and then launched.

SKkits has sold replicas to people in 12 countries, including Mexico, New Zealand, America and France, with another 300 currently being made to order.

Mr Senior, who until last summer was the goalkeeper coach at Altrincham FC, has supplied Altrincham FC's kits for the past 12 years.

Shirts worn by players last Saturday will be auctioned off to raise money for The Proud Trust.

Replica kits can be purchased at altrinchamfconlineshop.co.uk or http://www.skkits.co.uk.

Replica shirts are available from http://www.skkits.co.uk or on altrinchamfc.com.