News: Millers' success can boost local economy

All Saints Square in the town centre will become Millers Square this afternoon when the town gets the chance to wish their local football club all the best for the League Two Playoff final.


Rotherham United take on Dagenham & Redbridge at Wembley this Sunday for a place in the Football League One next season.

The Mayor of Rotherham, Cllr Rose McNeely urged everyone who can to show their support for the team by coming into town.

The Mayor said: "This trip to Wembley is a huge boost for both the club and the town. I was there when they beat Aldershot last week and that was a great match, a great occasion and a great atmosphere. So I am sure Wembley will be even better and I hope everyone - both players and supporters alike - really enjoy it.

"A successful team makes a huge difference to both local morale and local economics. In addition, it would be absolutely wonderful if we can see League One football being played at the proposed new stadium just a stone's thrown from the town centre."

Plans are progressing for a 12,000 seat, multi-million pound stadium at the former Guest & Chrimes site close to the town centre for the start of the 2012/13 season.

Reaching the Playoff final is reported to be worth around £500,000 to the club, with much more revenue expected with success and a place in League One.

Nearly 15,000 supporters have already purchased tickets for the big day.

Rotherham United Chairman Tony Stewart is relishing the Wembley final and told the club's official site: "This is a day not just for the Football Club but for the town and borough of Rotherham as a whole.

"Events such as these can really bring the people of Rotherham together and with that kind of atmosphere and support behind us, we will have a fantastic chance of making it all the way to League One.

"I live in Rotherham, my business is in Rotherham and most of my employees are from Rotherham, that makes me very proud. I am extremely passionate and relentlessly dedicated to working with others to make a difference for Rotherham United Football Club."

The managing director of successful Rotherham business, ASD Lighting took over the club in 2008.

From 1pm today, manager Ronnie Moore will lead the team onto a platform in front of the Rotherham Minster to give fans the opportunity to wish them all the best before Sunday's decisive match.

Rotherham United website