Liverpool legends have thrown their weight behind a fundraiser designed to keep Workington Reds alive.

Famous names including John Aldridge, Alan Kennedy and Jimmy Case have spoken-out in support of Reds, and called on the newly crowned Premier League champions to get behind the fundraiser.

Reds are hoping their shared history with Liverpool, surrounding legendary manager Bill Shankly, who led both clubs, will help them as they battle to keep the club afloat, after the coronavirus pandemic hit their coffers hard.

The Borough Park outfit has launched a new appeal to keep the spirit of Bill Shankly alive as they aim to raise £50,000 in much-needed funds.

In a message to Workington AFC fans, 80s Anfield legend Aldridge said: “I support keeping the spirit of Bill Shankly alive at the Reds of West Cumbria so please donate and help the club survive. You’ll never walk alone.”

The Save Shankly’s Reds fundraiser is designed to support the club through its centenary season. With overheads to pay and no certainty on when play will return, Reds are threatened by a £75,000 shortfall and a potentially “bleak” future.

However, chairman Les Byers revealed that the latest fundraiser has already received more than £8,600 with a local business donating £6,000 just hours after it was launched.

“There has been a shift towards Liverpool supporters in the last 12 hours," he added.

Although an early fundraiser has secured Reds’ future through the summer months, they are faced with the prospect that play may take place behind closed doors or with a strictly limited crowd. FA prize money and sponsorship could be reduced due to the financial hardship of the time.

Byers said: “Reds and other non-league clubs are not in isolation.

“Wigan Athletic have gone into administration, there are 10 to 15 league clubs in severe financial straits.”

To support the fundraiser visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/save-the-reds