Only Bath and Saracens, who both struggled in the league last season, are down on figures.

Powergen Cup holders, and first-time Heineken Cup qualifiers, London Irish lead the way, boasting a massive 208% rise.

They have sold 3,075 tickets for this season compared with 1,000 last year.

Sale, the reigning European Shield champions, have also prospered, witnessing a 78% improvement.

Leeds' sales went up by 80% and Bristol recorded a 55% increase.

Champions Leicester, meanwhile, have sold almost 12,000 season tickets, generating approximately �2.3m.

The total Premiership figure stands at just under 45,000 - an increase of 6,455.

"This is further evidence of the ever-increasing popularity of club rugby," said Premier Rugby chief executive Howard Thomas.

"Growing numbers of supporters are coming to the grounds, knowing that the Zurich Premiership offers great value, the best players in the world and a safe and enjoyable match day experience."