Dear friends,

It was the dream that no one dared to dream. Hull City were never destined to reach the top tier of football, or so we have been told for generations. Fortunately Phil Brown's team of '07-'08 were not informed and they have become one of the great surprise packages of the great game. As our parishioners, we are specially thrilled and wish them every blessing in the uncharted waters of the Premiership next season.

As Club Chaplain for some 29 years it was always a hope that one day this would happen but back in November last it was certainly not an anticipation for the present season. I booked my holidays accordingly for the end of the "normal" season and lived to regret this hasty decision. After so long with the club, not far off a third of its history, I found it extremely hard to come to terms with missing Wembley - City's first ever visit - and the following celebrations. Watching from a beach bar in Bulgaria with a total crowd of four was hardly compensation! Sue watched with me, trying to show as much interest as possible for her, and a young couple from Bristol - so there was, at least, some banter. When Dean Windass scored his incredible volley I made noises that must have reverberated round Golden Sands but brought little real response. No one else cared and that I found hard. I wanted to shout from the roof tops (or at least the hotel balcony) but the Germans and the French were unawares! Frustration mixed with elation!

I am so thrilled for the Club and for what it means to the City of Kingston Upon Hull. At last we are the envy of the nation - and not before time. I expect next season to be very tough and if it leads to relegation that will not mean failure. Here's hoping for better but whatever, we will all enjoy our season with the major legends of the game. The future could not be more exciting as we learn how to be Premiership.                         

                     ...... "a real Yorkshire team!"