IPSWICH Town chairman David Sheepshanks says that Blues fans that have decided not to renew their season tickets have made a mistake.He is certain the club is on the eve of something big.

By Elvin King

IPSWICH Town chairman David Sheepshanks says that Blues fans that have decided not to renew their season tickets have made a mistake.

He is certain the club is on the eve of something big.

Referring to recent reports of a possible takeover at Portman Road, the chairman, who has been on the Town board for 20 years, stressed that the club was searching for significant investment.

Speaking at last night's Ipswich Town end-of-season dinner at Trinity Park, Sheepshanks praised the club's supporters and acknowledged they are some of the very best in the land.

He said: “I am disappointed that current season ticket sales for 2007/08 are down on last year's corresponding figure at 13,100.

“However, I am highly encouraged as well by the continued faith shown by the majority of our fans.

“Those who have chosen not to renew have made a mistake. It is up to us to woo them back.”

Sheepshanks confirmed his faith in manager Jim Magilton and he is confident good times are ahead.

“The spirit and feeling at Portman Road is the same as it was in the late 1990s,” said the chairman.

“It is symbolic of what was to come then when we gained promotion in 2000 and finished fifth in the Premiership in 2001.

“I firmly believe we will at least be in the play-offs next May. The will to win is everywhere.

“What is happening takes time. We had 16 players make their debuts this season with nine permanent signings.”

The chairman referred to recent takeover talk and said: “We are looking to attract significant investment and this is an on-going situation.”

Sheepshanks said: “Chief executive Derek Bowden and the Portman Road staff must be congratulated on their achievements. It is not always easy when results are not going well on the pitch.”