WHY WE NEED THE 100 CLUB

In an exclusive interview with Forever Amber , Cray Wanderers Chairman Gary Hillman explains the reasoning behind the reintroduction of the 100 Club that was popular with Wands supporters in the 1970s.

"As everyone knows, the well-documented 'credit crunch' is upon us and Cray Wanderers Football Club needs to raise funds," Gary told Trevor Mulligan this week.

"We don't have our own bar, so the 100 Club will be our bar takings," he added.

Cray Wanderers currently ground share at Bromley's Hayes Lane stadium. However, although the Wands have use of Bromley's clubhouse on matchdays, all the revenue received over the bar goes directly into the landlords' coffers.

"Membership to the 100 Club costs just £8 per month per number," Gary explained, "and this equates to just £1.85 per week. As supporters can see, it's just like buying a beer every week, but it's healthier and money can be won as well!"

The 100 Club has been in pre-launch since September 2008 and is set to properly launch on 1 November 2008 when the first standing order payments are due to be made.

"Everyone needs to get on board right now, and it really is important to the future of Cray Wanderers," said Gary. "We will be doubling up the prize money for the November and December (2008) draws by not attributing anything towards the football club or admin during those months. This will hopefully encourage more people to sign up," he added.

Gary, like all Cray supporters and officials, is passionate about our Club, but warns: "If we don't get a good run in the F A Trophy and we don't get at least 100 members into the 100 Club by Christmas then I really believe that we may be in danger of losing a couple of players. On the other hand," he continued, "if we do have a good run in the Trophy and get the members, we can really push hard for the title."

Plans are being made to arrange for the first 100 Club draw to be undertaken 'live' at Cray's last home game in November (22nd -v- Sittingbourne). The lucky winners of the three prizes will be notified and paid straight away on the day. Prize money will depend on how many numbers have been purchased at that time.

"Supporters are urged to get those application/standing order forms printed out and enrol their aunties, uncles, nan, kids (over 16 years) and neighbours to sign up now!" Gary concluded.

Membership payments into the 100 Club are by standing order only. Each number costs just £8 per month. Full details can be found HERE, and application/standing order forms can be found HERE.

Please note that application forms and standing order forms must be signed and dated prior to sending them in. Entry to the November 2008 draw cannot be guaranteed for standing order forms received after Friday 24 October 2008.

Thank you for your continued support.