CECIL Duckworth has praised Worcester Rugby Club supporters for their commitment after a season ticket price hike.

The Sixways chairman consulted the supporters club during the close season to test the water on a price increase and was delighted with the response.

With Worcester having to restructure the financial set up somewhat to enable coaches John Brain and Andy Keast to have a competitive playing budget, it was decided extra funds could be raised through ticket sales.

And Duckworth believes the supporters' commitment to the cause will give the players an extra incentive to win promotion this season.

"The feedback from the supporters club was very encouraging," he said. "The supporters suggested that they would like to contribute more and I think that speaks volumes for their commitment to Worcester.

"I think it shows that the supporters are right behind our promotion push and are willing to make sacrifices. If you look at a lot of the players, it is the same there - they have also made financial sacrifices this season in order to stay at Worcester and have another shot at promotion. The coaches, players and supporters are all completely focused and that is greatly encouraging.

"Our prices are still below the national average and I think the supporters know it is value for money because of the standard of rugby on offer. We feel we are producing entertaining, vibrant rugby which justifies the price increase."

Season ticket prices (last year's cost in brackets): gold package £295 (£275), blue £195 (£175), standard £132 (£120), ground £110 (£96), junior £60 (£50), mini junior £30 (£25), car park pass £55 (£60).

Ticket prices: adult (east/south stand) £13 (£10), adult (west stand) £16 (£12), adult (north stand) £11 (£8), adult (ground) £11 (£8), child (up to 17 east/south stand) £6 (£5), child (ground/north stand) £5 (£4), child (west stand) £16.

* Supporters booking tickets in advance (excluding season tickets) can claim £1 off all adult match-day ticket prices.