Ian Russell, Capital Canaries Fifty-nine: the number of Capital Canaries members who travelled on the official trip to Carrow Road last Saturday. Not bad considering the un-glamorous opposition, our modest league position and, dare I say it, the gathering spectre of the 'credit-crunch' and recession.

Ian Russell, Capital Canaries

Fifty-nine: the number of Capital Canaries members who travelled on the official trip to Carrow Road last Saturday. Not bad considering the un-glamorous opposition, our modest league position and, dare I say it, the gathering spectre of the 'credit-crunch' and recession.

Loyal support can't be bought. Driving home from work on Wednesday evening, I was listening to BBC Radio 5's reports from around the Premier League and was struck by a comment from the correspondent covering the game at Fulham's Craven Cottage; it went something like this: “on a cold night in West London, the hardy 200 or so from Wigan.....” Two-hundred! Admittedly, Wigan are one of the new breed of former minnows to enter the big stage, but two-hundred away fans somehow seems remarkable. 24 hours before, 1,988 Leeds United supporters made the long journey to Essex to witness their team's defeat at Southend - two whole leagues below the Fulham versus Wigan fixture.

A great deal has been said and written about the departing Andrew Cullen. Much of City's astonishing consistency of high attendances over the past six or seven years is down to the peerless creativity and strategies of the aforementioned. 20,000 season tickets for the past four years is outstanding and, whilst City fans are unquestionably committed and steadfast in their support, a large chunk of credit must fall at the feet of Andy.

Andy is a Norwich City fan; he's supported his beloved Canaries since he was a boy and always spoke of his joy at working in the 'perfect job.' Crucially though, it is this ingredient that I believe sets him apart from so many of the rest. He's a fan, which means he thinks as a fan and for the fans.

Two years ago Andy set up the 'Long Distance Supporters Group' (recently re-branded as 'Canaries Worldwide'), an off-shoot of the SCG. Eight or nine of us (from various supporters groups around the country) attended the inaugural meeting. Three months ago, we had almost 40 at the most recent meeting and now most of the supporters clubs around the world are officially signed up.

A number of activities, including two 'Long Distance Weekenders,' and another established forum set up are yet more legacies left by Andy.

Another challenge lies ahead for Andrew Cullen and MK Dons will benefit hugely as a result of his passion, enthusiasm and expertise.

Andy would be the first to congratulate Norwich City fans for their incredible loyalty and constant allegiance to their football club, but 12 years ago he successfully and spectacularly tapped into that and now leaves the club in very good shape. All the very best, Andy, you will certainly be missed.