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The Dripping Pan passed its bank holiday test by hosting two games and welcoming nearly 3,000 fans.

Although the Rooks could not pull off double record equalling crowds of 2,347 for the women’s game against Southampton on Sunday and the men’s clash with Hastings on Monday, bosses were still pleased to see 1,119 for the first game and 1,639 for the second.

Now they will hope both teams have successful seasons and continue to pull in fans in such numbers.

The women drew 2-2 with Southampton while the men were held 0-0 by promoted Hastings.

Lewes Women celebrate going ahead against Southampton | Picture: James Boyes

Director Karen Dobres said: “It was a shame we couldn’t win either game, but both draws were exciting.

“The extra new bar went down well, as did the extra space and opportunity to walk all the way around the ground provided by a new pathway.

“We had great fun with ex-England star Fara Williams opening the pitch on Sunday, and Roger Feltham (Lewes’ groundsman for over 30 years) named as the Premier League’s Community Captain. We had the Premier League trophy here and lots of people took pictures with it.”

There was praise for Shrey Nilvarna, the club’s fan and community engagement manager, who made smooth work of handling big crowds.

Lewes take on Hastings in front of more than 1,600 on Monday | Picture: James Boyes

For Tony Russell’s sixth-placed side, Monday’s stalemate was a second draw in three days. On Saturday Joe Taylor’s late goal earned a draw at Corinthian Casuals.

The Rooks are in FA Cup action tomorrow at Sheppey United.

Dripping Pan passes crowd tests as Lewes FC prove quick on draw