FROM THE CHAIRMAN...

Good afternoon One & All,

After the excitement of last weekend’s 5 -1 victory over Street, it's great that we play at home for a second successive Saturday by welcoming the players, officials and supporters of Ilfracombe Town to Kellaway Park. An extended welcome also goes to our match referee Kevin Hoare and his two assistants Paul Barker and Dale England.

Back on the 28th January I featured in my programme notes the emerging talent of 18 year old Ross Dunstan. Although not making it into the named squad on the day Ross has since made his debut for The Blues. Coming on as a late substitute the following week Ross did enough to earn a further call up for last Saturday when again coming from the bench, he stamped his mark on the game with a well deserved home debut goal. This week sees further young blood included in the squad with the naming of 16 year old Josh Daniel. Having represented The Club's U16’s and U18’s already this season, Josh has impressed in training to earn his call up. Along with Rocco Hill, The Blues boast three of its youth in today’s squad. Good luck to you all

What a week for Rikki - last Saturdays match marked our first player hat-trick of the season. Well done Rikki Shepherd who now takes over pole position, with eighteen goals, as The Blues leading goal scorer for the season, two ahead of second placed Rubin Wilson. Rikki is unavailable today following the birth of a baby daughter on Wednesday. Congratulations Rikki, and of course we hope Mum and baby are doing well.

You regularly hear it said that the life and blood of any football club is very much down to those that dedicate their time and efforts behind the scenes, and that is no different here at Helston Athletic. Although we have several individuals who gratefully dedicate so much of their time each week to support the club, it is a pleasure to welcome George McCaffery, Western League Director, to Kellaway Park this afternoon to present Long Service Awards to club stalwarts Barry Dunstan and Martin Richards. Congratulations and thank you both for your many years of loyal and reliable support.

Finally from me for today a reminder that on Tuesday evening, 21st February, we welcome local rivals Falmouth Town for a third time this season, this time for a Les Phillips 3rd round cup tie. KO is at 7:45pm with the winners booking their place in the quarter final of this seasons competition.

Enough from me, please enjoy your afternoon and as always thank you for your attendance and support.

Paul Hendy (Chairman)