'I'll pay you to come and watch my new football team' – Hull United AFC chairman Jamie Waltham

GOING to watch a live football match can be an expensive business.

But the manager of Hull's newest non-league club hopes to have found the perfect solution – paying people to watch a game.

Jamie Waltham, manager and chairman of Hull United AFC, is offering to put his hand in his pocket and pay £2 to any spectator attending their home debut this evening.

The passionate 33-year-old, who used to play in defence for North Ferriby United, came to the rescue of struggling Humber Premier League side St Andrews by renaming and relaunching them.

"I have long believed our city deserves a top non-league side inside the Hull boundary, which can provide an alternative and more affordable level of football to Hull City," he said.

"Everyone is very proud of the lofty heights they've now reached, but it means being able to afford a ticket isn't always a possibility for everyone.

"That's why we want to pay people to come and watch our first league game.

"We want them to come and see if it is something they may enjoy. If they like it, we hope they will come again.

"The more people that turn up the better – even if it costs me more money."

Mr Waltham's team will face Hedon Rangers at Dene Park in Dunswell, at 7.30pm.

He wants to see the team win promotion to the Northern Counties East League (NCEL), a campaign which has started off well with a 3-0 victory away at Hessle Rangers.

"From a young age, I've wanted to form a club and help them push up," he said.

"I have a lot of belief. I'm quite an ambitious person and I think Hull deserves a top non-league club.

"North Ferriby have done really well and are a great example of what can be done, but they are not in Hull, which is why we decided on Hull United AFC."

As well as paying out £2 to spectators tonight, the club will be selling pints for £2 and handing out free tickets worth £3 for HullFest, a music festival at Dene Park this Saturday.

Mr Waltham said: "I want to give that incentive and they might come back again in the future to watch the team.

"It's not a bad standard and the attitude of the squad has been fantastic.

"The first league game was fantastic and I was buzzing all weekend. Even weeding at the pitch on the Sunday, I had a smile on my face."

Although the Humber Premier League is a feeder division for the NCEL, Hull United AFC would need to finish in the top five in their first season to stand a chance of winning promotion.

The club has made some new signings in their bid to do so, with former Ferriby midfielder Danny Clarke already signed up after work commitments ended his involvement with the Villagers.

In homage to Hull City's first fledgling steps as a club back in 1904, the side will play in black and white and have adopted the nickname the Citizens.

Mr Waltham hopes the concept will attract businesses and sponsors who are keen to get involved in a long-term football project.

Mr Waltham said: "Our plan is to offer some great loyalty deals to fans, like £2 a pint and discounted food offers.

"Any under-16s will also get in for free, so it means a family can have an enjoyable day at football for an affordable price.

"There's no reason why we can't fly through the non-league pyramid if the support is there. Ferriby are a great example of what can be achieved and who knows where we could end up?"

Anyone wanting to get involved with the club or become a sponsor, should call 07931 830302.

AS PART of the incentives for fans, spectators watching tonight's game will also get a ticket for this Sunday's HullFest music festival.

Among the acts performing include The Axenals, Troubador and The Shine, as well as acoustic soloists Alex Fowler, the Living Room Lads, Adam Norrie and Ben Farr.

There will be 26 acts in total on the bill playing everything from the Killers and Kings of Leon to Status Quo and Adele.

The main stage will host the headline bands, but there will also be an acoustic stage, a dance tent and a family fun area.

Craig Rutter, one of the organisers behind the festival, said: "The festival is from Hull people for Hull people and we wanted to deliver something we can be proud of locally.

"It's a platform to promote local talent and we're looking forward to seeing all the acts perform, playing some really popular covers from household names that everyone knows and can enjoy."

The music starts at noon. Visit www.hullfest.co.uk for details.

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