Another bonus for members and supporters was a reduction in the gate price from £5 to £3 to bring the club more into line with other clubs in Counties 1 Durham and Northumberland. Season ticket holders will get a rebate put onto their club cards.

Honorary Secretary Kathryn Waites told the meeting that the First XV had a mixed season mainly due to poor away results. The Stags had improved through the season, mixing former Academy players with some veterans, and enjoyed a tremendous CaNDY cup final against Berwick.

This season has started well with excellent numbers at training and in two competitive squads in the first games - despite a number of players being unavailable. Chris Webb had joined the coaching team and his experience was showing results.

Off the pitch the Board thanked Margaret White for her long service managing  functions with Louise Johnson taking over.

Honorary Treasurer Reg Bunter reported on the annual audited accounts up to April 2021. Despite Covid, and thanks to the financial support available from the government, RFU and Marstons Brewery, the club had weathered the storm. He also stressed the positive impact volunteers had, and were continuing to have, on keeping maintenance and bar staff costs down.

Accounts for the financial year 2021-22 were still at the  auditors but continued to be healthy. This had allowed  the club to reorganise its loan facility and crowdfunding support from members, which meant that personal  guarantees were no longer required.

The AGM also voted through amendments to Club Articles relating to share ownership (one share per member). The previous syetem had meant that members who had passed away were still officially holders of one share. Details of the revised articles can be found here.

The Board had also reintroduced the role of Chair of House. There had been two nominations for the role of Membership Secretary,  however Steve Wilkinson withdrew his nomination and there was an assurance from the Board that, in future, nominees and club members would be informed of all nominations immediately after the closing date - one week ahead of the AGM.

Board Positions: