SUNDERLAND AFC has handed students a football lifeline by reducing the prices of its season tickets for next season - allowing U22s to enjoy Premiership action at the Stadium of Light at lower prices.

The new U22's season ticket at £220 gives young people a saving of at least £125 on last season's prices, if they move from a non-concession to a concession area. It has been introduced because the club recognises that this is an age at which financial pressure can be particularly acute and is often when many young people are unable to renew their season tickets. The club has announced the new ticket alongside price reductions for all season ticket holders next season.

Ten issues of club magazine 'Legion of Light' - with exclusive news and interviews - will be included in the season ticket package.

Sunderland's chairman. Bob Murray, says: "We are a community club and the support of young people is very important to us - that's why we have decided to help our supporters who are aged under 22.

"I would like to thank all our fans for their phenomenal support this season. Over half of our home games in the Premiership have been sold out to Sunderland supporters, with the only unsold seats being in the visitors' section. The only way of guaranteeing your seat for every game next season is to buy a season ticket, as the most popular games will never reach general sale.

"I value fans' loyal support enormously, and in recognition of their vast contribution to the club's growing success, I am delighted to announce price reductions for every single season ticket holder."

The club has also introduced a new scheme, which will allow supporters to save time and avoid queues at the ticket office, when buying tickets for home cup games. Fans can simply fill in one Direct Debit form at the start of the season and receive all their home cup tickets posted straight to their door.

Existing season ticket holders will receive their renewal packs during April and new season ticket holders can join the club's waiting list now, by calling the ticket office on 0191 5515151. Full information can also be found on the club website at www.safc.com