THE success of Charlton’s Valley Express coach service, which transports fans from all over Kent to home games, is to be used as an example by the Premier League’s attendances working group when they meet to examine ways in which the slump in attendance figures can best be tackled.

The Express service brought in 1,100 fans on 24 coaches from 62 pick-up points in Kent, helping Charlton create a Valley record all-seated attendance of 27,111 for Saturday’s home game against champions Chelsea.

Although the Addicks were the only one of the five Premier League clubs in action on Saturday to sell out, chief executive Peter Varney issued his strongest warning yet that the Premier bubble may be about to burst as the new season continues to be overshadowed by conspicuous banks of empty seats.

Inflated ticket prices coupled with changing of kick-off times have led to supporters voting with their feet.

Mr Varney said: "There are warning signs that all clubs must heed and act upon.

"There are fewer season ticket holders at most clubs – even Newcastle – and attendances for some of the early matches have been disappointing. "Last season we played only eight home matches on the Saturday slot at 3pm."

Manager Alan Curbishley will have a wealth of riches at his disposal when Charlton visit West Bromwich Albion on Saturday looking to bounce back from Saturday’s first defeat of the season by champions Chelsea. Only goalkeeper Dean Kiely and Jason Euell are unavailable through injury.