Hearts issue a rallying call to fans

HEARTS are urging their supporters to make sure Tynecastle is full for the start of the new SPL campaign by buying a season ticket – even if it’s not for themselves.

The Hearts board of directors have issued a statement hammering home the important part fans can play in ensuring their club remains financially viable in testing times.

Around 8000 season tickets have already been sold for the 2012/13 SPL campaign, which starts this weekend, but the club wants even more Jambos to dig deep. The statement said: “Already over 8000 of you have bought season tickets. It’s a fantastic effort. However, further backing is crucial in order to meet our vision of creating one of the most dynamic young teams in Scottish football.

“Together with you, we have been fighting for the right thing for Scottish football and we have achieved a victory that will make history. Now we need to sustain this development and rebuff the critics. Many clubs say they will be exposed to increased financial pressure in the coming years. Hearts are confident that, with your active support, we will be able to defend our achievements and fight for the top.

“Now we are putting our faith in you. The club truly hopes that you don’t hesitate.”

The club wants fans who cannot commit to going along to every game to buy a ticket anyway, even if it means giving it away to a relative or even charity. “If, for an important reason, you cannot commit to a season ticket – get on board to greet the team for the first three matches at Tynecastle in the new season – St Johnstone on Saturday, Inverness (August 18) and Dundee (September 2). Even if you can’t make it to one of these games, perhaps you would consider buying a ticket and gifting it to a friend or family member or even Big Hearts who will make sure it is donated to a charity for someone else.”