Benson speaks directly to fans

GUEST SPEAKER: Tony Benson

THE Roughyeds' last lunch of 2008 for members of the club's Five Alive lottery will be held this Friday, December 5, at Mario's in Yorkshire Street (11.45am for noon).

The guest speaker will be Tony Benson, on his first public appearance since joining the club.

Members who have not yet been asked to confirm their attendance at the event are asked to contact Janet at the Roughyeds office on (0161) 6283677.

Fans wishing to purchase season tickets for 2009 are reminded that maximum discounts are available only until December 19.


NEW PROS ALREADY MAKING THEIR MARK

ROUGHYEDS chief executive Chris Hamilton is delighted with the way the five young reserves players have gone about their task since pre-season training began.

None of Scott Mansfield, Chris Clarke, Ben Heaton, Mark Smith or Anthony Bingham has any first-team experience as yet, after signing two-year professional deals.

But with coach Tony Benson keen to integrate everyone into the set-up, the quintet have thrown themselves into each and every session.

"It has been a big step up for them but they have really enjoyed it and they are already seeing the difference," said Mr Hamilton.

"Ben Heaton, for example, has said he has already put a stone on in weight.

"What they will tell you is that they are being made to feel a real part of it all, which was how we sold them the club in the first place."


THE SNOWY cold snap may have darkened a few moods but it at least helped brighten the Roughyeds offices, with Rob Roberts freed up from his schools coaching to instead take on tree decorating duties. All in a day's work. . .