Our AGM on Saturday 13 July saw a number of changes in personnel. Most significant of these was the retirement of our Chairman, Steve Corrigan, after three years at the helm. Cozzo wasn't just a good Chairman, he was a lucky one. The success of the team on the pitch under his chairmanship was remarkable. In Hego's days, Burnley FC had foundered, but with Cozzo in the seat, the only way was up. Promotion and consolidation in the First Division followed.
Seriously, he presided over a time characterised by better relations with Burnley FC and a higher profile for the supporters' club, as well as growing membership. He also presided over, and played a major part in organising, the series of events to mark our 25th anniversary last year, including lunch in the House of Commons. He did everything with common sense and good humour. Unfortunately, in a reversal of the normal trend, work has taken him up north, but hopefully we'll still be seeing him in the pub before the game and on the away ends. Replacing him, I'll find him a very hard act to follow.
Cozzo continues to serve the supporters' club, staying on the Committee as Ticket Secretary, a post for which proximity to Burnley isn't necessarily a disadvantage. In that position he replaces Paul Burrows, who steps down from the Committee after many years of service in a variety of posts. I am sure all our members will join me in thanking Paul for all he has contributed over the years. Cheers for all the tickets, Paul, and all the train trips before that.
Other changes see Pauline Pratley stepping into my shoes as Web Tsarina. The future of the site is assured. Replacing her as Membership Secretary is Brent Whittam, coming back for, I think I'm correct in saying, his fourth separate appearance in the line up. Is this a record? Jane Pike also re-joins for her second stint of liasing with APFSCIL, the umbrella body of exiled supporters' clubs in London. It's good that we now have a full complement after a couple of vacancies last year, and we welcome new boy Adam Mitton, who joins us to take on the job of reviving our football team. All other positions are unchanged.
Members will find full contact details for the new Committee in the next London Clarets magazine, Something to Write Home About.
