FANS from as far away as Israel and Australia have ordered Accrington Stanley kits as part of a boom in the club's popularity.

Stanley's off-the-pitch fortunes are growing at the same rate as their fortunes on the pitch in the Nationwide Conference.

Season tickets sales were up before Saturday's opening game of the season at home to Burton Albion.

And the Reds have reported purchases of replica shirts through the club website from as far afield as Australia, America and even Israel.

Club administrator Rob Heys, said: "It's unbelievable, we posted off a shirt to Israel last week and it wasn't a British football fan because he had a name that nobody could pronounce.

"We have been posting off kits to America, Australia and all over Europe. Obviously, we have had a few successful seasons on the run, so we are getting more guaranteed regular supporters as opposed to fans that come down when they are not following the two big clubs around here.

"It is great now when you drive down the road and see kids wearing Accy Stanley shirts, which you just would not have seen five years ago.

"The shop at the club is doing really well and also the outlet that our sponsors Oswaldtwistle Mills have allowed us to have there continues to go from strength to strength. We are also trying to reach an agreement with a town centre shop for them to sell our shirts.

"Having Nike as the kit supplier has also helped because of its popularity with youngsters and the novel design of the new away shirt is making that more popular then the home shirt at the minute."

Stanley say they have sold about 400 season tickets, which has exceeded the record season ticket sales last year.

The Conference club is looking to make a push for promotion and become a League team after finding their feet in the division last season. The club also had a successful FA Cup campaign, reaching the third round.

"I think everyone locally has a place in their hearts for Stanley," Mr Heys added.