A FORMER Bolton man who is trying to recreate the story of the "Wartime Wanderers" on the big screen hopes to get backing from Reebok for the project.

Mike Gething, who was born and bred in Bolton but now works for a record company in London, is flying out to America to visit Reebok's Boston headquarters.

He will be joined by fellow film-maker hopeful Tim Purcell and Reebok "founder" Joe Foster at a special meeting to discuss the film.

"We hope to convince Reebok that our film will be a success and that they should be involved in it," said Mike, who enlisted the help of writer/producer Tim Purcell in his attempt to see his heroes' names up in lights. Mike's idea is to tell the story of the Wanderers' team of 1939 who, led by captain Harry Goslin, signed up to fight in the Second World War.

He believes the story will not only appeal to Wanderers' fans but to anyone who enjoys a tale of team loyalty, spirit and bravery.

Mike, a big Bolton Wanderers' fan, first thought of telling the story in book form and then was put in touch with Tim and the idea of a film was developed.

The budget could run into £3 million and that's why the "film team" needs financial backing.

Joe Foster, who is still based in Bolton despite Reebok's move out of the town, said he was keen to do anything that would help the company and the town.

He will help negotiate with the Americans to try to find out if the film would be a viable project for Reebok to become involved in. The meeting is scheduled for later this week and Mike said he was "keeping everything crossed" that there would be a favourable outcome.

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