QUEUE-busting beer tokens promise to cut waiting times for thirsty football fans.

Bolton Wanderers and its catering partner De Vere Whites have introduced a pilot scheme which they hope will reduce queuing time at The Reebok Stadium's catering kiosks during the half-time interval.

Supporters can now take advantage of purchasing "Queue Busting Beer Tokens" before kick-off and exchange them for a half-time pint at one of a number of special exchange points in the stadium.

The initiative was trialled at the recent home game against Blackburn Rovers and early indications suggest it was an outstanding success and warmly welcomed by supporters.

The scheme operated again at yesterday's Barclays Premiership encounter against Sheffield United.

"We are continuing to look at ways of improving the service we offer on a matchday throughout our stadium catering operation," said De Vere Whites general manager, Sarah Gander.

"Having looked at various schemes across football in this country and in Europe, we feel the beer token idea could be a winner for fans.

Both the results at the Blackburn trial and the feedback received from supporters since has been very encouraging.

"We are keen to introduce it throughout the stadium for the remainder of the season. The scheme will be promoted extensively in and around the stadium with point of sale posters.

"We we also have team of people handing out leaflets giving supporters every opportunity to try it out."