Colchester United's chief executive has warned the club could become a laughing stock in the world of football.

Layer Road's inadequate facilities would mean big business and crowds would have to be turned away if the team's success on the pitch continues.

Marie Partner says the current ground would be an "embarrassment" to the town in a higher division.

She said: "I think it would be embarrassing for the town. People will want a part of it and we will be forced to turn business away because we won't be able to accommodate them."

"You're looking at the likes of Leeds and Leicester fans coming here with at least 3,000 to 4,000 fans."

She says current standards would see half the fans turned away.

The Gazette launched a campaign on Friday to get a new much-needed community stadium for the town. Sign our online petition here.

Published Wednesday, September 29, 2004

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