IPSWICH Town have increased season ticket prices by two-and-a-half per cent across the board in order to cover increased stadium costs.The Blues have been forced into putting prices up to the same level of inflation, to meet a 14pc hike in the cost of running the stadium, with business rates alone costing the club £80,000.

IPSWICH Town have increased season ticket prices by two-and-a-half per cent across the board in order to cover increased stadium costs.

The Blues have been forced into putting prices up to the same level of inflation, to meet a 14pc hike in the cost of running the stadium, with business rates alone costing the club £80,000.

A higher rate to clean the stadium, including getting rid of pigeons in the ground and the necessity to run more health and safety courses, have seen spending rise at Portman Road.

The club hope to recoup £150,000, which works out at about 50p per adult at current figures, to meet a 14pc increase in those running costs.

It is the second year running that Blues have upped season ticket prices, with the cost going up almost five per cent last year.

While unable to freeze or lower the price, the Blues have offered a new tier of “a kid for a quid” ticket, with under-sevens being sold a seat for £23, which obviously has to be bought with an adult ticket.

All fans will get an 18pc discount on the full price if they take advantage of the early booking system and buy before April 13, and they can use the three cheques system at zero interest to purchase their tickets.

A typical adult seat in the North Stand and Greene King Stand will cost £456 if bought before the April 13 deadline, and £533 after that date, a saving of £77.

Early booking works out at six free games, three after the deadline.

If Town get promoted, prices will not change for Premiership football.

The Blues are keen that supporters take advantage of the early booking system, so they can get an idea of how many season ticket holders they will have for the new season and budget accordingly.

Chairman David Sheepshanks last night said: “Providing that our better form, entertainment values and future prospects combine to encourage a level of season ticket sales close to this year's, then I can confidently say that we will be able to build in the existing team with no financial need to sell players in the summer.

“Once all our injured players are fit, it is increasingly evident to us all that the squad Joe Royle has assembled shows great promise for the future.

“Some of our football in recent weeks has been a joy to watch.

“I can only thank supporters for keeping faith with us through the early season disappointments and invite everyone to both stay with us and renew early, or indeed buy early if it is for the first time.

“Our pricing policy reflects our continued determination to introduce the thrills of live football at Portman Road to the younger generation and to maintain the affordability of live football to everyone, especially families.

“We are intent on seeing Ipswich Town rise again. I hope the large numbers will join us for what I'm sure will be an exciting and, hopefully, successful season ahead.”

Almost 19,000 fans bought season tickets last season and the club have average gates of 24,200 this season.