OXFORD United supporters wasted little time in snapping up season tickets to see their side play in Sky Bet League One.

Any fears fans would complain about a price increase following their promotion proved unfounded, with 700 sold in the first 24 hours.

Perhaps even more encouragingly for the U's, 45 per cent of those who bought in the opening 12 hours did not have a season ticket last season.

Managing director, Greig Box Turnbull, said: “We’ve had a phenomenal response.

"We had queues at the ticket office half an hour before they went on sale and the online activity has been particularly strong.

“The reaction to our prices and packages has been extremely positive and everyone who has been in touch has said they cannot wait for the season to kick-off.

“To sell 100 tickets per hour is testament to the passion there is for Oxford United in our community.”

Supporters’ group OxVox felt the increase in price was ‘expected and accepted’ by most fans.

And they appear to be proved correct.

“Given the higher level of football, the substantial recent losses, and the reduced prices last year, we think a reasonable level of price increases is justified, and would be expected and accepted by most supporters,” they said in a statement.

“Overall, it’s our view the prices announced are carefully judged to protect the club’s income streams while offering a good deal for supporters.

“We don’t think they will discourage new fans, and season tickets remain very attractive in terms of the price per match.”

The trust, who were heavily consulted in discussions on the new pricing strategy, believe the club have addressed issues raised by supporters.

“In our judgement the club has done a good job of taking our comments on board and safeguarding the interests of all fans,” they added.

“We want to see the club build a squad capable of reaching the Championship and then establishing itself in that league.

“While we understand no-one likes a price rise, we recognise that higher revenues mean a stronger squad and ultimately a more successful Oxford United.”