North End officials have defended the increase in season ticket prices for next season.

The increases have been criticised by some fans, especially oap's, who feel the rises are too steep.

But North End chief executive Tony Scholes told season ticket holders: "We have listened to what the fans have been saying to us throughout the season and deliberately kept increases to a minimum and for juveniles there are no increases at all.

"Like for like our prices among the lowest of the top Division One clubs.

"Last season we exceeded expectations both on and off the pitch. We also have one of the best young managers in the game, and a very good young squad that plays attractive attacking football.

"If fans buy before July 15, they will receive additional discounts.

"And, with juvenile prices frozen, it is only just over £2 per game for them to watch from the family stand."

He added that the building of the new South Stand will mean space is limited for the first part of the season with the capacity set at just above 16,000.

The ground is expected to be at full capacity for most matches and fans are, therfore, advised to make sure to get a season ticket as soon as possible.

SEASON tickets for next season can be bought at a discount before July 15.

Prices before July 15 are: adults: Sir Tom Finney Stand £310, Family Stand £310, Sir Tom Finney Premium Area £342; Bill Shankly Kop/Town End (from Oct 1) £270; OAPs: Sir Tom Finney Stand £200, Family Stand £200, Premium Stand £342, Bill Shankly Kop/Town End £180; juveniles: Sir Tom Finney Stand £160, Family Stand £50, Bill Shankly Kop/Town End £140.

Prices from July 15 are: Adults: Sir Tom Finney Stand and Family Stand £336, Premium Area £378, Bill Shankly Kop/Town End: adults £315; OAPs: Sir Tom Finney Stand (£250), Family Stand £200, Bill Shankly Kop/Town End £180; Juveniles: Sir Tom Finney Stand £168, Family Stand £63, Bill Shankly Kop/Town End £168.

Match tickets: Adults: Sir Tom Finney Stand and Family Stand: £16, Premium Area £18; Bill Shankly Kop/Town End £15.

OAP: Sir Tom Finney Stand and Family Stand £16; Bill Shankly Kop/Town End £15. NB OAP match day tickets bought in advance cost £10.

Juveniles: Sir Tom Finney Stand £8, Family Stand £3, Bill Sh'kly Kop/Town End £8.

* There are no concessions in the Premium Area of the Sir Tom Finney stand.

* disabled £90 (plus helper at concessionary prices)