AN OXFORD United stalwart found out yesterday just how popular the new 12th Man wristbands are proving with fans of all ages.

Just days after being launched by the Oxford Mail on Monday, hundreds of bands have been sold and some outlets have struggled to keep up with demand.

With each selling for a minimum suggested donation of £1, the 12th Man fund – which aims to provide United manger Chris Wilder with money to spend on players – has already been significantly boosted as the countdown to the January transfer window continues.

At Woodstock Primary School, pupils in Years Five and Six got their hands on the coveted collectables and met Peter Rhoades-Brown, the club’s longstanding Football in the Community officer.

The former Oxford and Chelsea winger, who made more than 100 appearances for United, said: “The 12th Man is something new this year, which the fans have come up with.

“To be fair, it has played a big part in the success of the club recently.

“It’s not just the money coming in, it’s also the togetherness that’s been present at the club since it began.

“It’s a link between the supporters and the players.”

‘Rosie’, as he is known to just about everybody, saw the popularity of the wristbands among 10 and 11-year-olds at the primary school and is convinced their appeal will match that of the Oxford Loyal bands which were launched by the Oxford Mail three years ago. More than 7,000 were sold.

He said: “The previous yellow bands really took off and people couldn’t get enough of them.

“I’m sure this batch is going to be just the same.

“We might have to get everyone wearing them at a home game for a big show of hands.”

The wristbands are available at outlets around Oxford and will also be on sale at the Kassam Stadium on Saturday ahead of the home game against Barrow.