By Matthew Panting

Maidstone will formally announce plans to raise funds for their new stadium on Friday.

The Stones are expected to set a £1.2million target which they hope to reach by the end of April.

The plan will include offering new shares in the ground-owning company rather than the football club itself.

Co-owner Oliver Ash (pictured) said: "We are going out to attract a few high net worth individuals who appreciate what we are trying to do and want to come on board.

"They will recognise what an important venture this is for the whole town."

Mr Ash and co-owner Terry Casey are putting a substantial six-figure sum into the project to help ease the burden of the total £1.6million stadium cost.

Full details of Maidstone’s ambitious plans will also allow fans to show their support while Mr Ash added: "We’ll also be open to discuss with representatives or our fantastic supporters how they might be able to join together as a group to be part of the fundraising."

The Stones have already announced that they will be installing a 3G pitch at Whatman Way, with the ground providing a County Town base for the club’s teams.