CHESTER FC fans will be able to pay on their card or by using their mobile phone at the Deva Stadium turnstiles this season.

The club has confirmed today that is introducing contactless, chip and pin, Apple Pay and Google Pay options, starting with the rearranged Vanarama National League North match with Curzon Ashton (August 24).

The new facility will initially be available in The Gary Talbot (East) Stand and Harry McNally (North) Terrace initially before being rolled out to the rest of the ground in the near future.

Season ticket holders will enter as normal by presenting their season ticket card at the relevant turnstile.

The club says the change will reduce the need for cash handling and protect the health and wellbeing of staff and volunteers, while also providing greater convenience and an improved matchday experience for supporters.

Supporters also have the option to buy tickets online in advance or by using cash at the ticket office on matchdays. Cash will no longer be accepted at the turnstiles.

Jeff Banks, director of fan engagement, told the club website: “I’m pleased that we can announce the introduction of modern payment methods such as contactless and chip and pin at the turnstiles – it’s something we’ve been working on for a while now and have been testing recently to ensure all methods work smoothly.

“Reducing cash handling around the ground has been a major focus given the Covid-19 pandemic, and with most people now having a contactless bank card, this is an option that is long overdue.

“While the new payment method has been introduced, we continue to encourage fans to purchase tickets online ahead of matches, allowing a speedy entry into the ground.

“We have invested in improving the IT infrastructure at the Deva Stadium so online tickets can now be purchased right up to kick off and thank Kieron Shiel and Obsidian Networks for ensuring these upgrades were completed in time for the start of the season.

“We would also like to thank Barrie Hipkiss, our volunteer turnstile operators and our supporters for the cooperation with the new payment methods, which we believe will provide a safer and improved process for all.”