BOSSES at cash-strapped Johnstone Burgh are making a final push to secure the football club’s future.

A lack of funds threatens to consign the 60-year-old club to the history books.

Officials suffered a fresh blow when they were told their main sponsorship deal wasn’t being renewed.

Now they are hoping the people of Johnstone will dig deep to show their support.

Club secretary Ricky Cantwell told the Gazette: “We can’t keep going like this if we expect to see a future for the club.

“Money is tight. We have to pay the rent for the ground and we also have to carry out our own maintenance work.”

Burgh were founded in 1956 and the club has enjoyed some glory days, lifting the Junior Scottish Cup back in 1964 and 1968.

Among those who have starred for the Johnstone club over the years is striker Frank McAvennie, who went on to enjoy a glittering career with St Mirren, Celtic, West Ham United and Scotland.

Recent fundraising events have helped to pay off club debts but, with bills mounting and a shortage of younger supporters to replace an ageing committee, survival is far from certain.

Andrew Cantwell, who is Ricky’s nephew, has launched a Crowdfunding page, with the aim of raising £3,000 to keep the club going.

Ricky, 64, said: “Another setback for us is that our current sponsorship deal is not being renewed.

“It is also important that we acquire new committee members as there are only three of us at present.

“The club needs sponsorship, new committee men and as much help as possible or the club may not survive.

“Every penny we can raise could make a real difference and will be much appreciated.”

To support the Johnstone Burgh fundraising drive, visit the website at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/johnstoneburgh