Today we offer a very warm welcome to Bristol Rovers whom we were pleased to see take all the points last week against our closest rivals. I am sure they will be just as keen to get a result today, so we can be sure of a very difficult game.

As we approach our last home game of the season our destiny is well and truly in our own hands; lying in 3^rd place, and only one point behind the leaders. Whatever the outcome I hope everyone will agree with me that it has been a fantastic season.I said in my message at the beginning of the season that I had a feeling we had a lot to look forward to. I have to say now that this season has surpassed even my most optimistic expectations.

Attendances have averaged over 5,000 per game, which was last achieved in 71/72 and is over 30% up on last season.

Gate income will almost certainly be a record at over £800,000

The wins against Chesterfield and Wrexham in the FA Cup was in itself a magnificent achievement but then to draw Chelsea away in the 3^rd round was an absolute dream. All our many supporters who were fortunate enough to make the trip will long remember the day at StamfordBridge. The team were a great credit to the club and more than a little unlucky not to earn a replay. For the 3^rd season running we have far exceeded our budget for Cup income. All these financial benefits will enable us to continue to strengthen the squad and slowly but surely improve the stadium.

All the credit for such a successful turnaround from the despair at the end of last season must go to Brian Laws and the players, ably assisted by Russ Wilcox, Peter Beagrie and Nigel Adkins. Paul Wilson has, over the years played a vital role in bringing young players through the Youth team and preparing them for the professional game. This season four regulars in the first team are ex Yts and Andy Butler, the youngest, looks set for a very bright future in football. Regrettably Paul has turned down an extension to his contract and is taking up a new challenge with Doncaster Rovers. He leaves with our very best wishes and our thanks for establishing and maintaining a very successful School of Excellence.

Not only has the team had an excellent season. Unlike previous years I am now proud to say that the administration is rapidly moving forward under the careful guidance of our new General Manager, Jamie Hammond and his new young team. The Commercial department too is flourishing following the appointment of a full time manager, Michelle Harness. Michelle has increased revenue considerably in her first year and has recently taken over the running of the Club shop to add to her responsibilities.

With the increased attendances there has been a very heavy workload on the restaurant and kitchen staff and they have coped admirably under great pressure and with relatively limited facilities.

Graham Colby continues to produce an excellent playing surface as well as undertaking many other roles to keep the wheels turning at GlanfordPark.

To every single one of our staff including all the Match Day personnel, I must say "A very big thank you for the sterling work you have done and the terrific spirit and loyalty you have shown to Scunthorpe United"

Finally to all our fans I thank you equally as much for supporting the team so well this year and in such increased numbers. To exceed 5,000 as an average crowd is way beyond what I imagined was possible and the Away support has been equally impressive and possibly even more vocal. Without this support there would be no atmosphere and at the end of the day it is the atmosphere that makes it such a special experience.

With just two games to go, let's really get behind the team and go for the Championship.

I hope you will all be back next season.

With very best wishes to one and all.

Steve Wharton

Chairman

30^th April 2005