Rugby League legend Trevor Foster is calling on Bradford Bulls fans to do everything in their power to show the city is firmly behind plans for a new Odsal Stadium.

The 87-year-old, who bestrode the Odsal turf for three decades during the club's golden era, said he is devastated that the proposals have been cast in doubt.

The blow came when the Government ordered a public inquiry into the Bulls' plans to build a world-class 26,000-seat stadium.

Mr Foster hopes to rally the people of the city in the same way he used to inspire his teammates in the red, amber and black jersey.

The former loose forward wants fans to organise meetings and publicity stunts, and write to MPs and councillors - anything to show their support for a new home of the Bulls. And he has promised to attend every event in aid of the cause.

"This stadium would be the dawn of a new era for the club and the city," he said. "I just pray I will see it in my lifetime.

"If it does not go through, it will be the worst blow of my life.

"This is a golden opportunity. I want to see people doing everything they can to make this happen."

In the late 1940s Bradford appeared in three Wembley cup finals in a row, winning two of them thanks to tries from the Welsh talisman who was awarded the MBE in the New Year Honours List in 2000.

Today he still maintains his links with the club, working as the timekeeper and a Bulls ambassador.

"The passion is still the same as when I joined the club in 1938," he said.

"People of all ages come to enjoy the match and support a team that is among the best in the world.

"The club has played a great part in the life of this wonderful city.

"Wherever I go I am stopped in the street by people who can't believe this decision."

Last week, Mr Foster met Sports Minister Richard Caborn and other MPs to be presented with a lifetime award by the Commons' Rugby League Group.

He said Mr Caborn was optimistic the project would get the go-ahead.

Mr Foster added: "It is wonderful for the city that we are world champions. The Bulls are the talk of the town - morning, noon and night. They have a wonderful set of footballers and spirit, though I think if they met our team of the late 1940s they would come off worsed!"

The Government has yet to announce the date of the planning inquiry.