SPORTS supporters are being urged to unite behind super stadium plans.

A new sports complex at Pennington will secure the long-term future of local clubs, says Leigh MP Andy Burnham.

Urging enthusiasts from all codes to get behind the state-of-the-art complex plan, which would feature rugby, soccer, athletics and training facilities, he said: "Initial reaction has been encouraging and progress is being made.

"I have invited National Lottery distributor Sport England to come to Leigh to discuss the plans and that meeting is happening next week.

"I know that doubts are being expressed by some about whether the scheme will actually happen.

"I am not in a position to guarantee that it will go ahead. But I believe it can work if everybody pulls together for the good of the town.

"The local clubs have legitimate questions about how it will work in practice.

"However, nobody should lose sight of the fact that one of the main reasons why we are pushing this scheme is to secure the long-term future of all our local clubs."