There are of course close parallels in the progress that both our clubs have made over recent years, and the part that Sammy McIlroy has played in both those success stories is enormous. He remains well respected at each of the clubs but for today, I hope that his celebrations will be with us.

Our fortunes over the first three games in the league this season have been mixed but I am sure that most of you will agree that there is a determination about the place, to do well. This I believe is reflected in our recruitment of new players. Sammy has identified those players he believes are capable of fulfilling that ambition and the latest addition to the squad, Manny Panther looked strong and capable in his debut at Barnet.

Our trip to Barnet did not gain points but did reinforce the Board's belief that we have gathered together what will prove to be our strongest squad of players for some time.

We have the players and the Board believes that it is now a matter of time and commitment before the potential of the squad is realised and the results turn our way. Macclesfield arrive here for their final league visit to Christie Park having won that vitally important first 3 pointer at home in mid-week. Our objective today is to achieve our first 3 pointer and launch our challenge for the season. It is still very early days but we want to be up there at the top as we head towards a 'new era' at our new stadium on Westgate.

With regard to the new stadium, the entrance road and enabling groundworks have now been completed. At the time of writing these notes I am working with our contractors,'Globe' making preparations to get the Piling contractors onto site. There are a lot of things happening behind the scenes and very soon you will see that translated into action on the site, and rather like the team building I referred to earlier, as we pull things together, so the potential will be realised.

All of your Board's members are working tirelessly to reach each of our objectives, both on the field and off. A number of new initiatives to support the stadium venture have been launched with the local authorities, the Primary Care Trust, the North West Development Agency, the Football League Trust, and others.

These are all designed to make the most use of the facilities we are creating. We will bring you details of these as they develop.

I would like to offer the Boards thanks to our MP, Geraldine Smith. She has already assisted us in our meetings with the various agencies and has offered to provide whatever assistance she can give, to ensure that our project is the huge success we intend it to be.

But for now, back to today. Please get behind the team. It really does help them if they feel that you believe in them. Let them know that you do! Can I also ask you all to join with us and give your usual warm Morecambe welcome to our visitors from Cheshire,'The Silkmen'.

Have a good day and enjoy the match.