Craig Hignett relishing new season as Hartlepool United ticket sales hit 2,000 mark

Latest figures reveal 2,150 season tickets have already been snapped up by supporters - a rise of 44 per cent compared to the same time last year.

It follows the signing of prolific striker Padraig Amond from Grimsby Town who has joined his former Mariners team-mate Toto Nsiala in moving to Pools alongside former Dover Athletic schemer Nicky Deverdics.

Hignett is targeting further signings ahead of the Pools squad returning to Maiden Castle for the first day of pre-season training on Wednesday.

"It’s massive for us to know the fans are right behind the club," reflected Hignett on the latest season ticket sales.

"You know what it’s like when Victoria Park is packed – the atmosphere is unbelievable and it can really spur the players on so we want as many people coming to games as possible.

"We want everyone to be together and pushing in the same direction and, if we do that, then hopefully we can have a really enjoyable season.

"I can’t wait to get back in to training now because we have some exciting players to work with and I’m looking forward to seeing what we can do," he told the club's website.

Early Bird prices means adults can buy a season ticket for £250 (£10.87 per game), students and seniors are £150 (£6.52 per game), Under 19s £120 (£5.22 per game) and Under 16s £75 (£3.26 per game).

The deadline for Early Bird rates is Friday, July 1.