Arsenal and Spain defender Hector Bellerin has become the second largest shareholder at Forest Green Rovers.

The club’s environmentally friendly approach to football has attracted the attention of Bellerin, who first became aware of their stance following a pre-season friendly with the Gunners in 2014.

Bellerin, who is a vegan  recently raised money to plant 60,000 trees in the Amazon rainforest.

He will work with chairman Dale Vince with the aim to help raise the environmental agenda in football among clubs, leagues and supporters.

The 25-year-old said: “When I first played Forest Green Rovers – all I knew about them was that it was a long way from London! As I heard more about the club and its work, I knew I wanted to meet them and be part of it.

“So many people feel there’s no solution to the world’s problems, but Forest Green are already doing plenty – and showing others the way.

Forest Green Rovers File PhotoForest Green Rovers went vegan in 2015 and became the world’s first carbon neutral sports club two years later (Steve Parsons/PA)

“I’m so excited to be part of the FGR family. I’ll be helping where I can, supporting people who want to change the world for the better.”

Vince, chairman of Forest Green since 2010, said: “I like Hector’s approach, his personal journey and the things he’s trying to do – they make sense.

“I’m looking forward to working with him on FGR and this wider agenda we have a shared interest in.”