Wealdstone Football Club is engulfed by a cash crisis that threatens to wreck its future aspirations.

In an exclusive interview with the Harrow Observer, club chairman Howard Krais has revealed that a cash pot, understood to be a six-figure sum, which has keep the club competitive for more than the past decade despite its modest budget compared to other Ryman Premier League outfits, has finally run out.

Now the club is set to unveil a campaign later today in a bid to raise £40,000 for next season's playing budget, which would give manager Gordon Bartlett the chance to retain his current talented squad of players while making several new additions as they strive for a play-off place.

And while there is no suggestion the situation could threaten the club's existence, its on-pitch fortunes could suffer a terminal blow if the money is not found. Like the majority of clubs in their division, the Stones have been operating at a loss annually and are now facing up to the stark reality that no cash equals no progress.

The campaign is entitled '100 : 400' with the aim to coax 100 fans or businesses to fork out £400 each to raise the target amount.

Mr Krais is cautiously optimistic despite the current financial climate. The club is also prepared to offer commision to those who help seek out fresh commercial opportunities.

He said: "The money raised would go direct into the playing budget, and Gordon will need to know by the end of this season what sort he will have at his disposal.

"If people say they cannot afford it and feel they have put enough into the club already, then that's fair enough."

Since the sale of their home of 60 years, Lower Mead, in the 1990s, Wealdstone have lived a nomadic and costly existence, flitting between several grounds before securing a 10-year lease at Grosvenor Vale, in Ruilsip Manor, last year.

The team is currently just six points off a play-off spot with seven games left and, according to Mr Krais, attendances are 40 per cent up on last season.

Mr Krais said the recession has also hit the club in the pocket and fears for next season should supporters and local businesses not warm to the campaign.