FANS wanting to become shareholders and members of the Gillingham Supporters Trust are urged to attend tonight’s launch at the Lloyds Social Club in Featherby Road, Gillingham.

More than 100 prospective members have requested to join the Trust, many of them exiled supporters from around the world.

Membership numbers are expected to increase significantly now that the Trust is up and running.

Matthew Holt, of Supporters Direct, will be available this evening to answer questions on the role of Supporters’ Trusts and the impact they are having on football in this country.

Endorsements will be sought for the present acting officers to continue in their posts as directors or co-opted board members until an annual meeting can take place to formally elect candidates choosing to stand for office in the future. The Trust is to be formally registered as an Industrial and Provident Society.

Former Gillingham and Republic of Ireland international Tony Cascarino will be at the meeting to give his personal endorsement and to meet supporters. The meeting starts at 7.45pm.