AROUND THE CLUB IN 80 YEARS!
Stalwart supporter Roy Bennett is the toast of the club after becoming the first of Derby County's loyal band of season ticket holders to renew for next season.
The club have reported a phenomenal 144% increase in the level of renewals on the same point last year, when the Rams went on to a record 24,000 season ticket sales.
New chairman Andy Appleby says the club are "delighted" with the response so far and has decided to reward the astonishing loyalty of Rams fans by offering a day to remember to one lucky season ticket holder
He said: "It's a small gesture for us, but we want the supporters to know how much we appreciate their loyalty.
"As it turns out, Roy is a great recipient of this prize.
"Here is a man who has lived and breathed the club since the 1960s, he has lived through the highs and the lows, but he has stuck with us all the time. That's true grit!"
Andy also responded to news that season ticket renewals have been a massive percent increase on the same period last year.
He added: "We froze the season ticket price because we wanted to retain the fantastic support base here at Derby County and it's clear the fans have responded to our same seat for the same price message."
Roy will get now receive VIP treatment for Derby County's next home match at Pride Park, against Fulham on Saturday March 29. The game is set to be another sell out.
The chairman's personal limousine will chauffeur Roy from his home in Ilkeston.
Roy will be wined and dined in the boardroom, before watching the game from the Directors' Box and then being driven home again.
The 81-year-old was astonished to find out he is the first fan to sign up for a 2008/09 season ticket.
"What a lovely gesture," said Roy, who has been watching the Rams regularly since the 1960s.
"It's been a tough season to be a Ram, but we have to put it in perspective. I remember the Clough glory days and I think we can bring them back.
"I think Paul Jewell is a guy who can bring success back to us.
"Look at what he's achieved in the past, he's a dynasty builder, not a quick fix merchant, and that's exactly what we need at this club."
We are Derby - get your 2008/09 Derby County season ticket secured!
