MARK DEVLIN has told fans they only have to look at Rory Fallon to see what a difference their increased numbers through the County Ground turnstiles have made this season.

Town's chief executive revealed that the New Zealand-born striker was only secured due to funds generated by an upturn in attendances.

The average gate so far this season is 7,353, a healthy improvement on the 5,440 who turned out on average last season.

Devlin is anxious to see the upward trend continue as well over the remaining four months of the season.

He said: "The fans' increased presence at the ground this season is both hugely appreciated and has allowed us to move in certain areas.

"It allowed us to find the funds necessary to bring Rory Fallon to the club. There had been no plans to spend in the transfer market in the budget we prepared for this season.

"We would not have been able to do that without more people coming to support the team.

"It also enabled us to put in a £75,000 bid for Jerel Ifil, which Watford chose to turn down.

"James Milner's loan spell was also aided greatly by the gate numbers."

The so-called 'big' games against the likes of Sheffield Wednesday and Queens Park Rangers have clearly helped but Devlin points to the last home game, an altogether less glamorous clash with Colchester United, to highlight his delight.

He said: "Last season, the game attracted 4,152 fans. This year it was 6,014. That's a useful guide because of how few away fans Colchester have brought on both occasions."

Devlin insists it is far from being a case that all the 'extra' income goes towards the playing side.

He said: "The money has also allowed us to pay off debts which we had from last year.

"Clearly that isn't as 'sexy' as putting players on the pitch but it is crucial in building those bridges with the community that I've talked so much about.

"We have debts to pay and we are working hard to make sure that they are.

"I want the whole town behind this football club and that

means having both fans and businesses on board."

As for Fallon, the man the fans helped to secure, the striker is back in contention for a place in the squad for Saturday's trip to Blackpool.

The 21-year-old has completed the three-match suspension he picked up for his red card in the defeat at Rushden & Diamonds on Boxing Day.

Skipper Andy Gurney is also available again after serving a two-match ban.

The only doubt for the Bloomfield Road clash at this stage is midfielder Stefani Miglioranzi, who is struggling to shake off a niggling groin injury.

Ticket prices for Town's match at Blackpool on Saturday are as follows: £14 (adults), £10 (senior citizens) and £7 (juniors).