HITCHIN Town manager Darran Hay has called his club's supporters ""the best around"" as he sent out an uplifting festive message to the Canaries' faithful. Hay has now spent 13 months in charge at Top Field and after a tough start to this season, which sees

HITCHIN Town manager Darran Hay has called his club's supporters "the best around" as he sent out an uplifting festive message to the Canaries' faithful.

Hay has now spent 13 months in charge at Top Field and after a tough start to this season, which sees Town 17th in the Southern Football League, believes progress is just around the corner.

Speaking to his club's website, Hay said: "I want to thank everyone at the club for their patience this season. It has been a frustrating campaign, but I truly believe we will get things right and we will bring the right players to the club.

"Regardless of the results, especially our home form, Hitchin Town's fans have shown to me they are the best around.

"The encouragement we have had has been tremendous and I want to thank each and every one of our regular supporters for the role they are playing.

"I also want to thank the clubs that have helped us out this season, notably Barnet and Paul Fairclough, Wycombe and Stevenage Borough.

"Please bear with us as we try to find the right blend and let's hope 2009 is a vintage one for Hitchin Town Football Club.

"On behalf of the players and the team management, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.