Essex reveal increased ticket sales

Tickets have been selling well for Essex's Friends Life t20 matches at Chelmsford, with a number of reserved areas already sold out

Essex have announced that ticket sales for their 2011 Friends Life t20 campaign are up 15% compared to this stage last year.

A number of reserved seating areas are already sold out for many of the club’s home games, while over 800 more discounted members tickets have been sold.

Essex Cricket chief executive David East said: “There has been a huge surge in Twenty20 tickets this season. Past ticket buyers are being joined by scores of new supporters who are urgently securing their tickets.

“There is a real determination from everyone in at the club for T20 success this season. We have made high-profile acquisitions with Scott Styris and Tim Southee joining the ranks who both add extra strength and depth to our strong squad. The atmosphere at our home Twenty20 games is unique and something for everyone to savour and enjoy.”

Essex will be providing entertainment at nearly all of their Twenty20 games this summer and have also introduced the Tiptree Family Stand, which will be an alcohol-free zone.

Their first home game takes place on June 3 against Gloucestershire. In addition to four Friday night home matches, Essex will also host Middlesex on July 2 in their first Saturday evening fixture.