Chronicle Article 4 February 2000

Call it luck, call it coincidence, call it what you like, but the Great Escape 2000 kicked off in the best possible way with the first win of the millennium for the Blues. Last week a mood of optimism was starting to catch hold amongst the media and the fans and it was more than satisfying that it was carried through until the final whistle on Saturday. Of course we suffered for the last quarter hour, but it wouldn't have seemed normal if we had coasted to a two-goal victory. The gap closed at the bottom, which was a further reason to be cheerful for the remainder of the weekend. More of the same please on the Rochdale "beach".

The use of Spotland for both football and rugby league has taken its toll on the playing surface. The need to use the Deva for training purposes due to the soggy state of the Roodee has definitely not been kind to Gary Kent and John Hipkiss's immaculate pitch of recent seasons. The problems this also causes for Ian Atkins, the coaches and the players was not lost on a number of fans. The ISA Annual General Meeting presented an ideal opportunity to raise and discuss these difficulties, and, more importantly, to decide to do something about them. Once a decision was taken by the members, a plan was immediately put into action. On Wednesday, the ISA, the Official Supporters Club and the Away Travel Club pooled resources and hired the Chester College training facilities at Clifton Drive for the next four weeks. This is another example of united support from loyal fans in the fight to preserve League status for our Club.

The AGM also unanimously approved a donation of £5,000 towards an expansion of the Football in the Community programme run by Brian Croft and Graham Bowker. Unlike the School of Excellence, Football in the Community is not financed via the football club and relies on the Officers' own fund raising activities and initiatives. All donations received in the current plan will be met by matching Government based funds and it is hoped that further local businesses will follow suit.

The ISA is pleased to help in this community work in schools, especially in the face of fierce competition for local talent from other clubs. This is clear demonstration of the members' regard for the importance of a structured youth development scheme for the future of Chester City.

The remainder of the AGM was very much routine in terms of Chairman's and Treasurer's reports and approval of the audited annual accounts and the new constitution. Thanks to James Green who volunteered to be a young persons representative on the committee, to everyone who attended, and to those who sent in ideas for the Great Escape 2000.

The Event moves to Rochdale this week and will be preceded by the third fixture between the two sets of fans. This is a good chance to bolster what is usually a good away following. Whether it was the pitch, or pies at half time, it is to be hoped that last season's second half isn't repeated.

Reminder – don't forget the Golden Eagle, Chester City's pub.

The Committee welcomes any comments or suggestions, and all will be dealt with. Chester City ISA, PO Box 308, Chester CH1 5ZF

Les Smith ISA chairman

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