Gillingham chairman Paul Scally has issued a plea to stay-away supporters to return to Priestfield.

The midweek game with Rotherham last Tuesday saw just 3,248 fans watch the Gills – a 17-year low for a league match at Priestfield.

Mr Scally (pictured), writing in his programme notes for Saturday’s game with Torquay, believes the fans will be vital as the Gills renew their promotion charge.

He said: "Apart from dropping a point (on Tuesday), the other disappointing aspect of Tuesday evening was the attendance at Priestfield, although a dip after our poor run was not unexpected.

"Starting (on Saturday) we have 10 games over the next five weeks, and six of those at home, which is a punishing schedule for any squad.

"I accept that those six home matches will also be hard on the wallets of our supporters but, as any manager will tell you, the vocal support of your home crowd can make such a difference to the team’s performance

"So, if you want to see our renewed challenge for a play-off spot and the chance to get back into League 1, I encourage you all to get to as many games as you can and persuade your family and friends to come along."

The Gills will be selling £40 family tickets for the home match against Macclesfield on March 31. The ticket includes entry for two adults and two children.

Mr Scally said: "This is part of an ongoing programme to encourage more younger fans to get into the habit of supporting the Gills because we all know that getting a fan’s interest in early life often leads to a lifetime of support."