U's reward loyal fans

7:00am Friday 2nd May 2008

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OXFORD United are rewarding the loyalty of their season ticket holders by giving them 5 per cent off the season ticket price next year.

It's believed to be the first time that United have reduced season-ticket prices.

Existing season-ticket holders - and there are around 3,200 of them - will get 5 per cent off as a reward for sticking by the team this season, even when the results weren't great.

And in another move by the club, under 11s' season tickets have been cut to just £60 in any area of the ground, which works out at just £2.60 per game over the season.

Other key points to emerge from the club's announcement of the 2008-9 season ticket and matchday prices are: Under sevens' ticket to remain free for all matches North Stand matchday and advanced prices reduced by £1 to £15 in advance and £17 on the day Under 11 season tickets now available in any area of the ground - not just the family area - for £60 The most eye-catching development, though, is United's decision to slash 5 per cent off season-ticket prices for their most loyal fans.

The club said in a statement: "Loyalty is the key to football, and we have the most loyal, most supportive fans in the country. To reward that loyalty we are offering all existing season ticket holders 5 per cent off their season ticket prices.

"Booked by July 4 and adults save at least £100 off the full matchday prices, whichever area of the ground they sit in.

"Even if you haven't had a season ticket this year, there are still substantial savings to be made.

"We also recognise the need to build the next generation of Oxford United supporters and to allow families to enjoy coming to matches together.

"We have also listened to what the fans have said and reduced the matchday and advanced prices for the North Stand. That stand becomes £1 cheaper per ticket and, if you add the 5 per cent reduction as well, then an adult season ticket in the North Stand is £30 cheaper this year."

Season-ticket holder Mark Rowbotham, from Abingdon, said: "I think it's a great idea, and for any season-ticket holder from last season who was maybe undecided about whether to renew of not, it will probably tip the balance.

"It's a great gesture from the club because, let's face it, last season wasn't very good. But the great run over the last few games has persuaded me and a lot of my mates to renew."

Advance match tickets for the Oxford Mail Stand remain at £14 for adults, with on-the-day match tickets reduced by £1 to £16.

The differential between in advance and on-the-day is now generally £2 where before it had been £3.