Derby County are proud to announce the 'Fans First' initiative, which puts supporters at the forefront of the club's matchday experience.

President and CEO Tom Glick has hailed the season-long project as 'innovative' and promised fans that many more exciting promotions will follow throughout the season.

'Gatecrashers' is the first fantastic offer, which is being rolled out for the opening day blockbuster against Doncaster Rovers, aimed at making it more attractive for fans to get to the stadium earlier on a match day and enjoy the unique Pride Park atmosphere.

Free merchandise, massive savings on food and drink, and a great commemorative team photo of Paul Jewell and all the players for EVERY fan are just some of the tremendous benefits that supporters will see at the Pride Park this Saturday for the Championship opener.

Tom said: "We want to put the loyal Derby County fans at the heart of the match day experience at Pride Park and therefore we are introducing special offers to make the day more enjoyable.

"Fans First will run throughout the season and the Gatecrashers promotion is a tremendous way to kick off the new campaign.

"We are encouraging supporters to come through the turnstiles as early as possible and enjoy an extended match day at Pride Park.

"Free merchandise, fantastic food and drink offers and the free team poster are just some of the great ways to enjoy the Gatecrashers promotion."

The club is offering free Derby County branded merchandise to the first 1,000 supporters through the Pride Park turnstiles when they open at 1.30pm on Saturday (August 9).

A special price-slashing offer on food and drink has been introduced for supporters arriving at the ground between 1.30pm and 2.15pm. Fans can purchase a pint for just £2, a saving of £1.10 and kids can enjoy a meal deal of a hot dog and a drink for just £3, a saving of £1.70.

Also, in partnership with Derby County's season presenting sponsor BuyMobilePhone.net, EVERY fan that comes to the Doncaster game on Saturday will be presented with a special commemorative team photo.

Be in with the crowd for the Rams v Doncaster - the journey starts now!