A COLCHESTER United legend has returned to help the club’s attempt to further boost attendances next season.

Prolific striker Steve McGavin has been brought in to work on the U’s plan to reward loyal supporters with books of money-off vouchers from north Essex firms.

Mr McGavin, known as Silky as he had a knack of weaving in and out of opposition defenders with the ball at his feet, was a star of the side which regained Colchester’s football league status in the Nineties.

He will now be in the front line of chairman Robbie Cowling’s bid to attract capacity crowds by selling a record number of season tickets.

More than 120 businesses have agreed to contribute vouchers to the booklets, which will be sent to everyone who buys a season ticket for 2010/11.

Mr Cowling hopes the scheme will benefit supporters as well as improving ticket sales and helping businesses attract new customers.

Mr McGavin, who entered the world of business after quitting football, said he was pleased to be involved.

He said: “It was a nice surprise. I spoke to Robbie, who I’ve known for a long time, and I was really pleased when he asked me to come on board.

“We are really grateful to all the businesses who have signed up – there are so many it is almost worth buying a season ticket just to get the discount book.”

The 41-year-old added: “It’s great to be back at the club.

“The new stadium is very different to Layer Road, but times have changed and Robbie is very ambitious to get the club up to the next level.”

Mr Cowling said: “Steve was a great player for Colchester and he’s now a very good salesman.

“We think it’s a great scheme and we have around 120 companies on board now.”

Businesses who want vouchers included in the booklet should see www.

colchesterunited.net/voucher scheme as soon as possible.

Supporters who have already bought their ticket will be sent the booklet as soon as it is ready.