WORCESTER City are targeting a crowd of 1,500 for the home clash against Gloucester City – potentially the last ever Boxing Day game at St George’s Lane.

On-song City want their largest gate of 2011 as they bid to round off the year in style in front of their own fans.

Carl Heeley’s team are flying high in Blue Square Bet North, just three points off the play-off positions following last Saturday’s 2-0 win at Colwyn Bay, and have not lost on home soil in the league since September.

With the 3pm kick-off clear of distractions – Worcester Warriors don’t play until the following day – and the frost covers in place to protect the pitch, the club are set to break the four-figure attendance barrier for the first time this season.

Supporters could also be witnessing history because, with City due to have vacated their century-old ground in 18 months so Careys New Homes can build on it, the eagerly-anticipated local derby is the last guaranteed Boxing Day fixture at the Lane.

“I don’t think 1,500 is out of the question,” director Rich Widdowson said.

“With how well we are playing, that’s what we have got to be looking for. That’s what we are targeting.

“We are getting 800 at the moment but Boxing Day is a traditional football occasion. We have one of the most entertaining sides for many a year so we are calling for people to come down to the Lane.”

It would also be the first time Worcester have had a game on December 26 since 2008 following the postponement at Gloucester last season and the home game against Newport County in Conference South being called off the year before.

Chairman Anthony Hampson says every effort is being made to ensure the game beats any cold snap and is urging fans to get behind their team.

The City chief said: “With the excellent run City are enjoying in the league and the work our groundstaff and volunteers have put in to ensure the Boxing Day game will be on, the club is hoping the rewards are a good turn-out.

“The manager and players have repeatedly mentioned how important fans’ support is, especially in local derbies, and it may just be possible that this will be the last Boxing Day encounter at St George’s Lane.

“If you need post-Christmas family entertainment, get behind the City. We will be delighted to see you.”