The group raising funds for a statue of former Norwich City star Justin Fashanu have called on city businesses to back the bust.

Organisers said they were "really pleased" with early support raising more than £3,500 so far, but added they would need the support of Norwich businesses if the statue was to be built.

Andrew Reynolds, who is leading statue plans, said if six businesses donated between £5,000 to £10,000 then plans could start being drawn up by artist Taslim Martin.

Mr Reynolds also revealed more details about the tribute saying it would be 8ft tall with a 10-tonne plinth which businesses would be able to have their name on if they donated a significant figure.

Norwich Evening News:

He said there were also plans for a documentary to be made about Fashanu's life as the first openly gay professional player, gay representation in football and the statue's progress.

Mr Reynolds said: "We were really pleased with the response following our announcement.

"I thought the front page of the Evening News was fantastic and all the media backing us was brilliant.

"But now we need to turn that attention into donations.

Norwich Evening News:

"There is mounting pressure on people's wallets at the moment and the economy is not great. 

"We're really thankful for all the personal donations so far and they're probably the most symbolic and important contributions, but now we need to start speaking to businesses."

The figure, which is intended for the city's Riverside area near Carrow Road with its own memorial garden, would become the only statue of a gay black man in Britain.

Norwich Evening News:

Mr Reynolds said "great support" for Norwich Pride had already shown Norwich had a good record of celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.

He added: "We're pretty hopeful Norwich businesses will step up.

"We can be proud of our role in all of this I think people here understand the importance.

Norwich Evening News:

"Norwich is a place where we do things a little differently, where we celebrate these things.

"By donating, these businesses will have their name attached to something which shows they care about inclusivity."

Those who wish to donate to the statue fund can do so at justinstatue.com.