Derby County fans have now helped to raise £1m for the club's Academy by investing in Derbyshire Building Society's Rams Account.

The £1m milestone was celebrated with a special presentation to Derby star Giles Barnes at the society's Pride Park branch on Monday.

Over 9,500 Derby County supporters currently have a Rams Account, which enables them to support the club as they save.

Derbyshire Building Society donates the equivalent of 1% of total balances in the account during the year to support Derby County's Academy.

Giles Barnes is just one of the current crop of young stars who have directly benefited from the funding this provides towards the set-up at Moor Farm.

With expert coaching and superb facilities, young players can develop the skills they need to compete at the very highest level.

Rory Slater, director of affinities at Derbyshire Building Society, said: "Our Rams Account continues to grow in popularity and is one of the best of its kind in the country.

"Supporters are not only helping to build the foundations of Derby County's future success, they also get some very special supporter benefits when they put their savings into a Rams Account.

"These benefits include 10% discount at shopDCFC, special prize draws and the chance to meet senior representatives from the club in a special Q and A session.

"Our branch presence at the stadium has made it easier than ever for fans to support the club that they love and accounts can be opened with just £1."

Derby County spokesman Jim Fearn said: "It was appropriate that Giles Barnes accepted the cheque, because he is the latest in a long line of Academy youngsters who have made a big impact in the first-team at Derby.

"Savers are not only saving, but investing in the club's future."

A Rams Account can be opened at the society's Pride Park branch (telephone 01332 844632), or at any other branch of the society.

For more information, log on to www.ramsavers.co.uk.