Members of the reformed Keep Barnet Alive action group are taking part in Finchley Carnival parade on Saturday.

The group's aim is to rally public support for the Conference club as it faces another crisis in its bid to establish a permanent new home.

Janet Matthewson, new chairwoman of KBA, has made an impassioned plea for the fans to turn out in force.

She told a meeting of supporters at Underhiill on Wednesday."The Tories believe that Barnet FC are standing alone, they do not believe the club has the backing of our community.

"We have to show them we care. Get our there, wear your colours with pride, especially this weekend."

The fans will meet in East End Road, Finchley, close to the Queens Head pub, at 12.30pm, and the KBA float, with its display depicting 100 years of Barnet FC, will proceed via Whetstone to Barnet and then to Victoria Park, Finchley.

"We have 25,000 leaflets to distribute and so we'll need plenty of helpers," said Janet.

"But this is a special day for the Finchley Carnival, celebrating its 75th anniversary. It's an occasion for all the family, and we don't to be seen to be hi-jacking it.We'll be distributing balloons for the kiddies."

More importantly, football fans are being asked to turn-out in vast numbers at the Town Hall, Hendon, on Tuesday at 6.30pm, when the Council is due to discuss Barnet's situation, notably the green belt issue relating to Underhill.

"Don't turn your backs when the club needs you most. This could be your last chance," according to KBA.

For further information, call KBA on 08707 442 507.

July 4, 2002 16:30