Jacqui Smith lives opposite Redditch's home ground, the Valley Stadium

Redditch United have received the backing of the home secretary Jacqui Smith in their bid to keep the cash-strapped club going.

The Reds have been in talks with Bromsgrove Rovers about a merger, and have major financial problems.

Smith, who is the MP for Redditch, says it is up to the people of the town to turn out and support the club.

Manager Gary Whild says the fans have a chance to voice their opinions at a meeting on Thursday.

Whild says he has heard a lot of complaints from supporters about a possible merger with Rovers, and hopes the fans turn up to talk to the club directors.

"It'll be interesting, let's see what their options are, and how they think the club can progress," he told BBC Hereford & Worcester.

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