1,000 free tickets for Blackburn Rovers' game against Birmingham City on March 24 have been snapped in less than 24 hours.

The club hope to attract people from the town who have never been to a game before with the unprecedented move.

The tickets were made available on a first come, first served basis through Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and were limited to four per family.

Rovers have boosted attendances over the past year with the Taking Back Ewood initiative that saw season ticket prices reduced, and special matchday ticketing offers.

Tom Finn, managing director at the club, said: "Following the launch of the 'Taking Back Ewood' campaign, we have had great success in drawing fans from all over the North West.

"However, this is an excellent opportunity for people in our core catchment area who have never been to Ewood, to come down and experience a live Premier League game."

Coun Michael Law-Riding, executive member for leisure and culture for the council, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for people to watch a top flight, Premier League football match at a very crucial stage in the season."