At this momentous time for the Albion, I would like to pay tribute to chairman Dick Knight.

I have been a supporter of the club since 1965 (exactly 40 years ago this week, to be precise) and it has been a huge emotional involvement.

When Dick embarked on his rescue operation, back in 1997, we were on the brink of extinction. And after our incredible escape at Hereford, we were homeless but alive and kicking.

He surely could not have known what a battle he was going to have, initially, just to get the club back to Brighton.

Remember the objections of the Withdean residents? And then to find a new, permanent home for the club.

In the past eight years, he has succeeded incredibly. Not only by bringing the club back to Brighton but by obtaining the services of a succession of top-class managers, all of whom have made a contribution to the club's success.

Who would have thought, in April 1997, that within a few years, we would have won two successive championships and a play-off final? (Okay, there was a relegation in between but we won't dwell on that.)

He also remained loyal to the coaching and backroom staff each time there was a change of manager, thereby laying strong foundations for the future.

And, of course, everyone knows what a battle it has been for the Falmer stadium.

He will go down in history as the saviour of the Albion.

-H Fraser, Upper Beeding