Bristol City will introduce a smart card entry system for its season ticket holders in season 2008/09.

Plastic smart cards - the size of a typical credit card - will replace the existing wallet and voucher system.

They will initially be used for stadium entry only, although additional features will be built into the card as time goes on.

The move will bring City in line with clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle United, Manchester City and Aston Villa who are already using the same smart card system.

Stadium turnstiles will be upgraded to accommodate the new system during the close season.

Ashton Gate Limited managing director Doug Harman said he was delighted that the stadium has embraced the 21st-century technology.

He told bcfc.co.uk: "The cards will give greater control over the whole ticketing process.

"For example, if a season ticket is lost it can be deactivated and a new card issued, giving much greater control over security.

"It will also offer additional functionality which can be used for other services once season ticket holders have got used to the new concept. More details on this will follow in due course."

Season ticket holders will be issued with their smart cards in June, accompanied by vouchers for fans to claim their Megastore discount.

For the very latest on season tickets for 2008/09 click here.