David Cuffley Norwich City have sold out of season tickets - with 20,000 fans booking a regular seat at Carrow Road for the new campaign. Today's announcement makes it the third time in four seasons that the Canaries have reached their sell-out figure.

David Cuffley

Norwich City have sold out of season tickets - with 20,000 fans booking a regular seat at Carrow Road for the new campaign.

Today's announcement makes it the third time in four seasons that the Canaries have reached their sell-out figure.

The club sets its own season ticket ceiling at 20,000 to be able to accommodate members, casual sales and visiting supporters in the rest of the stadium.

Sales have beaten last season's total of 19,714 season ticket-holders and the figure includes more than 1,400 new recruits and 2,300 under-16 season supporters.

Andrew Cullen, City's director of sales and marketing, said: “I do believe the sell-out of 20,000 season tickets for 2008-09 underlines the unique nature of the relationship between Norwich City Football Club and its supporters.

“Perhaps that relationship might be considered even more special after recent media reports have suggested that several Premier League and Football League clubs are experiencing a serious decline in season ticket sales for 2008-09.”

City had the second highest average home attendance in the Coca-Cola Championship last season at 24,527, but many clubs expect a drop in gates when the new campaign gets under way in August.

Research last week claimed that European champions Manchester United can expect up to 19 per cent of their fans not to renew for next season, with a quarter of West Ham fans unlikely to renew, followed by relegated Reading (22 per cent) and FA Cup winners Portsmouth (21 per cent).

“Norwich City's ability to buck that trend reflects both the outstanding loyalty we are fortunate to enjoy from so many of our supporters as well as the club's commitment to affordable, accessible family football,” said Cullen. “The net result is to deliver strong foundations for the club for next season and beyond.”

In addition, 2,500 fans have taken out super membership deals, giving them first choice for casual tickets.

The level of support will come as a major boost to manager Glenn Roeder as he prepares for the new campaign, but the onus will also be on him and City to deliver a big improvement on the field after three, arguably four, dismal seasons in succession. The Canaries' final position of 17th in the Championship last term was their lowest finish for 44 years.

A season ticket waiting list will come into operation again for those who have not secured their place. A fee of £10 applies with under-12s able to register free of charge.

For more information, supporters can visit the ticket office or call 0870 444 1902.

Corporate season tickets are still available. Further information from Zoe Seals or Dawn Towns on 01603 218712.