Shrewsbury Town’s supporters have given the club a resounding thumbs up – by smashing records for season ticket sales.

Some 2,780 supporters have already snapped up season tickets for the 2009-10 campaign, an increase on the 2,738 last term.

When Sovereign Club hospitality membership is taken into account, 3,130 have already committed to the entire of the season.

That is a clear endorsement and comes despite the near promotion miss last season, when Town were beaten in the play-off final by Gillingham.

“We are all absolutely thrilled with the response we have had, especially when you consider the economic climate at the moment,” said general manager Jon Harris.

“We have picked up a lot of new season ticket holders, which is really pleasing.

“The backing we are having from the supporters is absolutely fantastic.”

The news comes a day after Shrewsbury offered a clear indication they intend to withstand any attempts to lure Grant Holt away.

League One Colchester were the latest club reported to be interested in signing the 28-year-old, with claims a bid of around £250,000 had been received.

A statement issued by the club didn’t confirm or deny that, but manager Paul Simpson was insistent Holt – who still has two years to run on his contract – would be staying with Shrewsbury.

“There have been a number of rumours circulating about Grant leaving the club but I am still planning for him to be wearing our No 16 shirt next season,” said Simpson.

“We are in the fortunate position at this football club where financially we don’t have to sell.”