Oxford United have become the first League Two club to launch their own mobile phone network, as it looks at new ways to boost its cashflow.

From this month, fans can buy an ‘OUFC Mobile’ phone or sim card, with 50 per cent of the profits going to the club.

The service, which operates on the Orange and T-Mobile networks in a similar way to packages offered by supermarkets, will go live on November 26 when United host Cheltenham Town at the Kassam Stadium.

The venture is a partnership between the club and Shebang Technology Group, which launched a similar network for League One side Colchester United.

Oxford United’s commercial manager David Jackson said the club was looking at non-traditional ways of funding.

He added: “This can be a significant revenue stream to the football club, without question.

“It’s something we’ve been looking at for a while. We’ve been trying to find the right partner for the past 18 months.”

The tariff offered is said to be up to 40 per cent cheaper than the major networks, with texts and calls between OUFC Mobile customers costing 5p each and 7p a minute respectively.

Texts to other providers will cost 7p and calls will be 14p a minute.

Mr Jackson added: “The potential is really good, but it’s got to be welcomed and supported by the fans to make sure it continues.

“They supported the Bridle Insurance affiliation, which has been really successful, so I’m sure they will.

“It’s a very attractive offer for the club, not only as a short-term gain but a long-term relationship.”

Mr Jackson said the service will begin as a pay-as-you-go network, but plans are in place to introduce contracts and business tariffs at a later date.

Helen Blowman, Shebang’s head of business development, said: “Oxford United are the only League Two club to have their own mobile network. It is a revenue stream that brings 50 per cent straight back into the club.

“It will piggyback off the Orange and T-Mobile networks, offering 99.8 per cent coverage in the UK.”

Sim-only deals will be available for £1 or £6.95 with £10 of credit, or a Samsung phone and £10 of credit can be purchased for £19.95.

Each time a customer tops up £10 they will be given £5 free for the first 12 top-ups. New customers can keep their existing number.

The other clubs running a similar scheme are Wolves and Celtic.