Rams fans will be able to get their hands on the new 2008/09 home kit for the first time during a day of events which will also see Derby County's first-team players take part in an open training session at Pride Park Stadium.

Thursday July 31 is the date to put in your diary for a range of festivities which kick off with the official re-opening of shopDCFC which will have a complete new look for the new season.

And there's an extra incentive for the first 50 fans to purchase the new kit in shopDCFC as they will receive two free tickets to Saturday's pre-season friendly with FC Utrecht*.

President and CEO Tom Glick will cut the ribbon at 8am to formally launch the new store and signify that sales of the new kit are underway.

And the action moves from the shop to the stadium when manager Paul Jewell, his coaching staff and playing squad arrive to be put through their paces in full view of supporters.

Tom said: "There is a big buzz around the club with the new season just days away and I know Paul and the players are looking forward to the chance to train in front of a good crowd at the stadium.

"And as Thursday is the first chance for supporters to get their hands on our new home kit, it's sure to be a big day.

"It's a chance to wear your new shirt for the first time while watching the players train on the pitch here at Pride Park - and one not to be missed."

Turnstiles open in the Toyota West Stand at 9.30am to allow supporters to take their seats before the session gets going an hour later.

Club mascot Rammie will be on hand to select young fans from the crowd to take part in a penalty shoot-out in front of the University of Derby North Stand - so there's an extra incentive to get in early.

Access to the training session will be for anyone wearing the new adidas 2008/09 home shirt, Rams Card holders, Rams Card applicants on the day (voucher issued to gain entrance), and all children aged 16 and under (children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult).

* The first 50 fans to buy a shirt will receive a golden ticket which they then need to take to the ticket office and exchange it for their two free tickets for the Utrecht game.