GENEROUS Cherries supporters have been digging deep to help fund a coach for followers of FA Cup rivals Burton Albion.

A website has been set up to raise money to pay for their travel back to Dean Court after the scheduled third round tie between the clubs was postponed yesterday.

The brainchild of Cherries supporter David Whitehead, the idea came about as visiting fans to Burton when Eddie Howe's men won promotion in 2010 felt they had been so well treated by the host club that they wanted to help.

And while supporters were initially hoping to raise £800 to fund one coach, donations have continued to flood in with the kitty currently standing at more than £1,600.

A message on the website reads: “On April 24 2010, AFC Bournemouth secured promotion to League One with a 2-0 victory over Burton Albion. The way our fans were treated that day, from the pubs, to the stewards, to their fans, was just brilliant and has left great memories in many of our fans' minds.

“We were due to meet them for the first time since that joyous day in the FA cup but the game was postponed just over an hour before kick-off, with most away fans in the Bournemouth area having to face a frustrating day of travelling.

“As a sign of goodwill, David Whitehead came up with the idea of Cherries fans chipping in to help fund a coach for our friends at Burton Albion so they can experience free travel and enjoy the rearranged fixture, which is on Tuesday, January 14.”

Wayne Pycroft posted a message on the website which read: “Shows the true spirit of cup football. Neither club will win the final but many will remember the great gesture between two clubs. Hopefully, AFC Bournemouth fans will get recognised for this great gesture by the FA with a special fans' award.”

And Craig Grant, who made a sizeable donation, wrote: “I know what it's like to travel and have the game postponed. Happened to me at Notts Co a few years back! I always look out for Burton after our great reception there.”

To make a contribution, go to www.gofundme.com/BurtonCoach