Ann Budge thanks supporters for their loyalty as season ticket sales smash last year's efforts.

Ann Budge has thanked the Hearts support for their magnificent backing so far, with almost 13,000 fans snapping up season tickets for the upcoming Premiership season.

Eclipsing last season’s total, the Jambos are on course for a modern day record amount of season ticket holders as Phase Two pricing starts today.

Reflecting on what has been a remarkable season ticket campaign, Ann said: “The support shown by Hearts fans for their club never ceases to amaze me. I keep thinking "it can't get any better" and they prove me wrong every time.

“When we sold 12,500 season tickets last season, we were absolutely thrilled. To have sold 13,000, so far, this season...well, what can I say? We made extra seats available to allow for the possibility of extra demand and the supporters, as ever, are backing us all the way.

“There are still seats left, of course, but they are going quickly. The best seats remaining now are for our hospitality reserved areas and I have absolutely no doubt that they will go equally quickly, now that the hospitality season packages have been announced.

“I really cannot thank our supporters enough for their loyalty; but I also want to reassure them. I know they are all desperate to hear about new signings for next season but I urge them to be patient. I assure you we are all working really hard to negotiate a number of new contracts, some of which are very complex.

“We are totally focused on bringing in the calibre of player that Craig and Robbie believe we need to ensure our continued success on the field. Our supporters deserve the best we can afford and we are doing everything in our power to deliver on that."

As season ticket availability begins to become limited, the club can now reveal details of its hospitality season ticket packages, which offer the best available seating and guaranteed seats for watching the Jambos back in the top flight.

On offer is premier hospitality to suit a range of requirements and budgets. Packages include an informal ‘pals in the pub’ experience, a private members lounge, an executive networking suite as well as a fine dining option with top class entertainment.

The club’s award-winning match day experience – as recognised by a commendation of excellence from TripAdvisor - accommodated over 13,000 patrons and was completely sold out for many matches last season, including the final six games of the Championship-winning season, so supporters can guarantee their seat for every match of the Premiership campaign and enjoy it in style with a season pass.

These fantastic season packages go on general sale on Wednesday, June 30 and are priced from £876 plus VAT.

Already a waiting list for two lounges, interest can be registered now by contacting Shelley on 0131 200 7244 or Natalie on 0131 200 7282.

Tickets for individual match-day packages will go on sale on Wednesday, July 1.

Supporters who wish to purchase standard season tickets can do so now by visiting Hearts eTickets, calling 0871 663 1874, option 1 then 1* or by dropping into the Hearts Ticket Centre on McLeod Street.

Full Phase Two pricing details can be found by clicking here.