TOWN fans are unlikely to see ticket prices tumble simply because the Football League has agreed a new television deal with Sky.

The Swindon Town Supporters' Trust is calling on chief executive Mark Devlin to review admission costs in the wake of the £95m deal.

But with the club projecting a £500,000 loss next year, any 'bonus' revenue is not likely to be enough to see directors tearing up the present price structure.

However, it may be that the club will look at 'creative' price deals for selected matches.

Town have still to hear how much they will receive per year from the television deal but the calculations of the club and those of TrustSTFC are unlikely to tally.

The club's budget for 2002-3 was calculated on the basis that zero television revenue would be flowing into the club.

TrustSTFC members insist the new deal should trigger a re-think.

Representatives met with Town officials, including director Bob Holt and major shareholder Sir Seton Wills, a couple of months ago when the final touches were being put to the budget for the new season.

Leigh Collett, TrustSTFC treasurer, said: "We are aware that the new deal falls short of the ITV Digital deal by something like 65 per cent, but, according to our calculations, that should still allow the club to pass on a saving of around £2 pounds per match day ticket.

"Based on average crowds of 5,500, they still have plenty left over for Andy King to spend on players too."

Trust members claim promises were made during budget discussions that appropriate discounts on ticket prices would be made if a new television deal arrived in time for the new season.

But Devlin, mindful that this meeting took place before his arrival at the County Ground, said: "All I can say is that the extra money will be a help but I don't think it will be enough to stop us losing money.

"I can see why the Trust has taken this position but even with a rough calculation at this stage I think we would be looking at £100,000 to £120,000 a year maximum.

"Clearly, it is in the club's interests to attract more fans back to the County Ground but I think the way forward is likely to be a series of creative ticketing deals for selected matches - for the casual fan and the season ticket holder alike - for the new season.

"As chief executive of this club I have a duty to look after our fans but I also have a responsibility to make sure we operate on a sound financial footing."

Former Town defender Paul Reed is poised to join Aylesbury United. The left back was released by Andy King in the summer and has been training with the Ryman League outfit.