I WAS recently stopped by a Wire fan in Golden Square Shopping Centre who said, ‘it must be a quiet time at the club now?’

I responded by singing a poor rendition of ‘Ain’t No Stopping Us Now’ (McFadden and Whitehead, published 1979) as we never stop.

Indeed the period from October to February is a frantic one.

We are dealing with membership renewals, sponsorship renewals and planning for the World Club Series game on February 18 with Brisbane Broncos at The Halliwell Jones Season.

We also find ourselves planning for the start of the season, health and safety upgrades, settling in our new players (Kevin Brown, Mike Cooper, Andre Savelio and Dom Crosby), checking on the progress of these players who have had a minor or post season operations and ensuring our retail offer is attractive for 2017.

These are just a few of the issues our incoming new chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick has been dealing with since he started early this month.

The reaction to the signing of Kevin Brown has been really positive.

He will be a great mentor for Dec Patton and will add enormously to the quality of the team.

While the decision of Chris Sandow to leave was very challenging, we wish Chris all the best for the future.

If Chris needs another boxing match (after his bout with Todd Carney earlier this month) I will volunteer – after all, I am the under 8s 1963 Butlins Clacton champion!

Thanks again for your loyal support over this year.

Our philosophy is continuous improvement and we will kick on into 2017 for even better times.

Have a great Christmas and see you at the game on December 27 at the Widnes Vikings at the Select Security Stadium in Widnes.

The ‘Barmy Army’ will be in full festive voice as we begin our journey to success in 2017.

Eat, drink and keep active.