Little Mix star Jade Thirlwall becomes a shareholder at South Shields Football Club

The South Shields born star is already the Honorary President at the football club and now she has taken her support that one step further by purchasing shares.

The 27-year-old accepted the role in August and it will see her help to increase the club’s profile on a national and international scale.

Jade is also a patron of South Shields-based charity Cancer Connections and has recently invested in her own bar, Arbeia, and nightclub, Industry, on Ocean Road in the town.

Fans of South Shields FC, along with Jade, have so far purchased £280,000 worth of shares, beating the initial target of £250,000 during the first round of investment.

All funds raised will remain within the club and be reinvested as part of plans to continue progressing through the football pyramid while leading and supporting different community projects.

Geoff Thompson, the chairman of South Shields FC, says that Jade’s investment is another example of how she is supporting her hometown.

Mr Thompson said: "We are thrilled with the response we've had to our investment round. To hit our initial target so early was something which filled us with so much pride and optimism for the future.

"It's hugely exciting that more than 750 people have shown their support to us in this way and for Jade to be one of them is just another example to show how committed such a global superstar is to not just the club, but her hometown.

"We will continue to welcome new shareholders until the campaign ends on November 28 so any supporter or potential investor who is interested still has some time yet.

"I'd like to say a huge thanks to everyone who has invested so far."

Shares in the club are available from £12.50 until Saturday, November 28. Anyone who chooses to invest will receive a range of perks.

All those who invest £25 or more will receive a personalised certificate, with larger investments potentially offering shirts, scarves, hospitality tickets or even a place on the board of directors.

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