Following the disappointment of last season, we now face a battle to get back to the Championship – and we call upon everyone connected to the Diamonds to pull together.

From the boardroom to the training pitch, in hospitality and in the stands, we are stronger united. We win together.

Everyone felt the pain of relegation, but everyone also remembers the joy of success. The 2023 promotion and 2024 cup win were undoubted high points in our recent history, and everyone connected to the club wants to enjoy more days like this.

The reality of dropping to League 1 means we can expect some long journeys to difficult venues. We can expect a decrease in attendances and commercial revenues – but every cloud has a silver lining. Every long journey is a potentially brilliant away day. Every home fixture is a chance to bring a friend along to back the Diamonds. If you’ve enjoyed hospitality, spread the word. If you’re connected to a business who may be interested in sponsorship opportunities, let us know.

We have welcomed a dynamic young manager to the club in John Rankin, and one week into the job his vision for rebuilding the playing squad is already taking shape. With one new signing on board and discussions ongoing regarding a number of other players, it promises to be an exciting summer.

We’re thoroughly impressed by the start John has made in the position of head coach, and for our part we will give him our full backing as he looks to revitalise the squad and mould a team capable of returning to the Championship. We will continue to freshen things up off the park, too – and we’ll aim to improve the way we engage with our loyal supporters with regular monthly updates on all aspects of the club.

The target is set, and the challenge is clear. We win together.