When I played, many years ago, I was under the genuine impression that the players were the club - lock stock and barrel. I was not alone in this arrogance. If pressed we would concede that there were some old farts in the background sitting on endless committees discussing something or other but anyway that was what they enjoyed.

Since coming to New Brighton the scales have fallen from my eyes. Harry Leyland told me that he had sat on committees for 20 years and did not enjoy it at all but that there was no other way. Then I became aware of the huge contribution made by various groups - the gate men, the unpaid ground staff, the House Committee and the helpers, the kitchen helpers for the prematch lunches and the Mockbeggar Dinners, the Youth Development Team and those who dig deep financially (and anonymously) for the club.

Why some of these people have not come to the attention of the Honours Board is beyond my comprehension. (Actually they have but the plea fell on stoney ground). With these efforts and the money raised from club functions such as christenings, birthday parties, wakes, anniversaries etc., the club is managing to keep afloat - just. Our team, as you know, is struggling as we feared it would, but, Hippy Davies did not hesitate (much) before picking up the reins (poison chalice?) It must be depressing to be near the bottom of the league and frequently outgunned but they never show it. Their shoulders just do not go down. In fact I would go so far as to say that I've never seen such spirit before in my years at Hartsfield. We may be in dire straights financially but that spirit is a priceless asset. Why not come and share it? These willing supporters are not getting any younger and we always need fresh blood, new ideas, suggestions and, of course, any new financial help would be a godsend. Every one is useful at something. You won't end up on a committee (if you struggle hard enough). Moreover you will undoubtedly become a better person. Just look at me?