Recently by Chester City Independent Supporters' Association

THIS month will see the 10th anniversary of the formation of the ISA.

In our darkest hours following Chester City - especially after last season's traumas and the less than convincing start this season - it is hard to imagine a more troublesome time. However, history shows that there was such a time when the fans finally said enough is enough and fought back against an owner who had taken our proud club to the depths of despair and out of the Football League.

Actions taken by the ISA then brought about the end of the Terry Smith era who had no stomach for a fight and thankfully sold out once the fans started picketing the ground.

Solidarity was the key then and it remains so now as the club goes through a further period of turbulence with disagreements and raised voices in the dressing room.

The squad must pull together and support one another - let the motto be "all for one and one for all" - otherwise we are likely to sink like a stone and no amount of points deducted from other teams will save us. Fans can play their part by being there and giving the lads your support - more cheering and less sneering. Solidarity on and off the pitch is vital if we are to improve.

The ISA has marked their 10th anniversary with a special newsletter which includes contributions from former ISA chairman Mark Howell, who says: "Players, managers, owners and board members ALWAYS leave but the one thing that remains constant is you, us, the fans."

We were formed out of adversity and are prepared for further changes because change is inevitable. While we are not in a position to dictate our views we will try and maintain dialogue with the current owner and continue to represent the loyal City fans who have kept us going these last 10 years.

BY far the best news released from the Deva Stadium last week was the re-signing of Paul Linwood.

I feel sure that, as Simon Davies tries to restructure the playing staff during the close-season, other new players will be signed, but none more important than Paul. The fans' player of the year for last season sent out all the right signals by stating that it was the offer to make him club captain that clinched his signature to a new two-year contract.

This is precisely the sort of loyalty and pride we need at the club, which over time has become used to journeymen footballers who stay for as long as it suits them before moving on. With so many young players around him having the same attitude, the future for Chester City is less bleak and the nerve-racking moments of a few weeks ago are now just a distant memory.

While we are all relieved to retain our place in the Football League, we must heed the warning (unlike Wrexham) and strengthen the squad wisely to ensure 2008/9 is a much better season.

Certainly the signs are good because we will build on our youth policy under Simon Davies and he will encourage all the players to display not only talent, but the same pride and loyalty shown by their captain.