Here’s the full press release from Jim

Thanks to everyone who came last night. Those present voted on a new name for the Association and the winner by a huge majority was 'Hornets Nest-egg'.

As initial meetings go, it proved very positive. As expected, endless years of cynicism breeds cynics and whilst there were one or two 'devil's advocates' in the room, the general feeling was one of a real desire to achieve something - and a feeling that perhaps we could make a difference.

I've not totted up all of donation pledges yet, but everyone there last night has been very generous and we've received pledges too from Hornets fans in Blackpool, Middlesex and Sydney (Aus.) - which is very encouraging.

If you haven't confirmed your pledge yet, please send me your name, address, phone number and pledge details so that I can include your donation in the projected total.

It seems that there are two ways that people want to donate - £100 up front (which gives us a really good kick start) or £10 a month (which ultimately results in a bigger donation, but spreads it over the year).

Obviously, we appreciate that not everyone's circumstances are the same and are more than happy for people to donate whatever they can. I'll forward bank account details as soon as I have them - which brings me nicely to...

I'll be collating the information on members and their pledges over the next week and looking into opening a bank account. Clubs and societies generally need one committee member and a treasurer to open an account - for expedience (and in order to have an account open in time for the next meeting) myself and Clive (a home and away Hornets supporting accountant) are prepared to act as signatories if everyone agrees.

Obviously, this will be put to the members at the next meeting and if anyone wishes to stand as signatories to the account or vote to replace myself and Clive they can.

The thank you's :

Thanks to the club who've given this their backing - three directors (David Vining, Peter Rush and chairman Ray Taylor) kindly gave up an evening to face a mild grilling from the floor and I feel that they were as forthcoming as they can be on quite a few issues.

Thanks too to Hornets' Mark Reynolds who has provided some top things that we're going to auction at forthcoming meetings (player issue polo shirt, Umbro player's track suit and ex-Kiwi Dave Watson's Hornets playing jersey).

The Raffle raised £70 last night - a pretty good start. Thanks to Dave Vining for providing two tickets to tomorrow's Sportsman's Dinner worth £60 as top prize - don't forget your smart dress, Dougie!

... er... that's pretty much it.

Thanks to all involved - the next crucial meeting (the one where we come for your money) will be in around a month's time.

Onward Hornets Onward.