Diehard Burnley fans are refusing to accept the offer of season ticket refunds from chairman Barry Kilby, instead asking him to re-invest the funds in the club.

The generous scheme, launched by the club chairman in 2007, offered fans a full refund on their season tickets should the Lancashire outfit make it back to the promised land of the Premier League anytime before the 2009/10 campaign.

With Burnley's momentous play-off victory over Sheffield United in May securing promotion, Kilby was set to give up to 7,000 people refunds on their season tickets. It would mean an outgoing of £2million from the club.

But now, some fans are refusing to accept the staggering offer, instead insisting that the club keep the money to invest elsewhere - be it in the youth academy or to be converted as shares. Paul Fletcher, chief executive of Burnley, explained that they would be weighing up all options as to what to do with the cash.

“Some have had other ideas, so we are looking at all the different options and will be writing to the 7,000 season ticket holders in July asking them to indicate what they would like us to do with their money."

However, he was quick to allay the fears of fans who do wish to get their money back in these tough economic times.

“Of course, anyone who does want their money back will get it. This is not the club stalling on refunds."