ON the field they will be the fiercest of rivals when they meet twice in five days next month, but it has emerged that officials of Bolton Wanderers and Spurs worked closely behind the scenes to offer free child places for the Carling Cup tie at the Reebok.

The Whites needed approval from Spurs before announcing the initiative for the October 27 third round tie, which also includes a price cut for all supporters.

But Spurs agreed and Wanderers commercial director Gareth Moores paid tribute to the Londoners when he said: "We are delighted that Tottenham Hotspur have agreed to our proposal to offer free children's tickets for this very attractive cup clash.

"We have always sought to adopt policies which seek to reward families and their children, and are confident that this new initiative, which coincides with half-term, will enable many new families to sample and enjoy a fantastic night's entertainment."

Up to two children will be admitted free of charge with each adult, senior citizen or student ticket purchased for the tie, with additional children or unaccompanied children being charged £5.

All other prices have been cut, with admission to the East and West stands £20 for adults and £18 for pensioners and students and in the North and South stands £15 and £13.

Tickets went on sale today with season ticket holders having priority until October 11, but addional free children's tickets will not be on offer until open sale starts on Tuesday, October 19.

Existing children's season ticket holders will not be charged for their tickets provided no more than two children are accompanying each paying adult, senior citizen or student. Unaccompanied children and additional accompanied children will be charged £5.

The club is asking season ticket holders, Lifeline members and club members who plan to take additional children to the game to delay buying their tickets until the open sale date, although they will not guarantee tickets will still be available as all ticket orders will be processed on a strict first come, first served basis.

Wanderers will stop selling tickets for Saturday's Premiership game at West Brom at 4pm tomorrow when the ticket office closes for a system upgrade.

Tickets, priced £28 for adults, £15 for pensioners and £13 for children will be on sale at The Hawthorns on Saturday from the away end ticket office.