IPSWICH fans are facing a price increase next season - the first in four years at Portman Road.Season ticket costs are set to rise by an average of around five per cent, The Evening Star can reveal.

IPSWICH fans are facing a price increase next season - the first in four years at Portman Road.

Season ticket costs are set to rise by an average of around five per cent, The Evening Star can reveal.

Town were planning a mid-afternoon announcement to unveil charges for the 2005-2006 campaign.

The prices are set to apply regardless of whether the club succeeds in its promotion quest.

If they do regain Premiership status, fans will see four fewer home league games next term - 19 as opposed to 23 in the Championship.

Supporters are also being encouraged to stump up their cash in mid-April - previous deadlines have been the end of May - to take advantage of special book-early rates.

Prices will automatically increase across the various bands after that date but a club spokesman confirmed today: “We are looking to reward the loyalty of current season ticket holders.”