A FOOTBALL club will this week make a fresh drive to kick racism out of soccer.

Bosses at Bury FC have pencilled in the knife-edge home match against Scunthorpe United to hold an anti-racist day -- the club's first.

It follows attempts by the FA to stamp out racism from the terraces and comes in the light of Andy Preece's appointment as manager at Bury.

Mr Preece is one of just two black managers in the Football League and the Premiership.

The club also boasts the country's only Indian player, national team captain Baichung Bhutia, and it has many young Asians on its books.

Chairman Terry Robinson said: "We are committed to having the whole of the town support the club regardless of race, religion, colour or creed.

"This Saturday will be a perfect time for the whole town to come together."

Bury FC's community officer, Andy Feeley, has worked with the town's Racial Equality Council, which will encourage the Asian community to support the event.

The game, on April 1, will be a day of tension as both teams battle to avoid the threat of relegation. The club is hoping fans from all communities will enjoy what promises to be an edge-of-the-seat match.

Mr Feeley said: "The club is keen to continue its work as one of the most forward-thinking clubs in the area in its stance against racism and in providing opportunities for budding Asian footballers."

Former Shaker and Professional Footballers' Association chairman Gordon Taylor will be a guest. Mr Taylor, patron of football's Kick-It-Out scheme, said: "I am delighted to support the event."

Fans will be served Asian food alongside the more traditional soccer fare of pies and pasties. There will also be face painting, stickers and badges for youngsters.

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