Albion have defended a hike in season ticket prices which makes a top seat at Withdean almost as much as at Manchester United.

The Seagulls have announced an average increase of 20 per cent for next season. The cost of an adult ticket in the centre of the North Stand is £435, just over £18 per game, for full payment after April 25.

The amount falls to a minimum of £395 or rises to a maximum of £462 for full or staged payments before or after April 25.

The best seat at Old Trafford this season cost £456. The dearest seat at Bournemouth, Albion's probable south coast rivals in the Second Division next season, is £350.

Albion chief executive Martin Perry said: "Next season promises to be even more exciting than the current campaign. We very much regret having to increase season ticket prices for next season, but we are sure that our supporters will understand the position."

Albion are blaming the price rises on the abnormally high playing costs at Withdean, the increased playing budget to compete in Division Two, revenue limitations at Withdean and the cost of plans for a new stadium at Falmer.

The Seagulls have softened the blow with three new initiatives. Twenty seats for every home game will be auctioned at the ticket office. A nine-year season ticket, costing £3,550, has been made available following the success of a ten-year season ticket.

The £10 administration fee for the away membership scheme for non-season ticket holders is now a one-off payment.