PREPARATIONS for Burnley FC's Player of the Year nights are now well underway.

The official awards evening takes place on Wednesday, April 26 at a glittering event at Turf Moor.

Voting is now well underway at the official website, where the current standings are shown below.

Last year's winner, John McGreal, pictured here receiving his award from club legend Martin Dobson, is in danger of losing his crown to Graham Branch.

The club's longest serving player, who joined on New Year's Day 1999 and recently made his 250th appearance, is clearly being recognised for his ability to fill any role in the side.

In fact, following Danny Coyne's untimely setback, Branch could have played in every single position had injury not ruled the emergency goalkeeper out of the trip to Luton Town last November, when Brian Jensen was harshly sent off.

Branch leads the early count with 17.9 per cent, followed by skipper Frank Sinclair and ever-present left back Jon Harley. However, voting does not close until Friday, April 21, so get voting now and have your say.

Tickets for the event, hosted by celebrity Clarets fan Andy Hodgson and including other celebrity Clarets, a champagne reception and two-course dinner, are now on sale priced at £25 each or £250 for a table of 10.

More details can be obtained by calling 01282 704705.

Meanwhile, the various supporters clubs have been busy organising their own awards night, which is now confirmed for Monday, April 24.

This is the second year the groups have hosted their own event, which saw McGreal pick up seven Player of the Year gongs last May and on-loan Aston Villa youngster Gary Cahill romp the Young Player of the Year category.

And again the fan-driven event promises to be a special evening, attended by manager Steve Cotterill, his staff and the players.

Matchday compere and lifelong Burnley fan Jeff Brown will compere the evening and the special guest is former Turf Moor legend Steve Kindon.

Tickets cost just £3, including supper, and anyone wishing to attend should contact their own supporters club branch to check allocations.