IT'S the final Ruffy writes...

At last, some of you may say! But I hope you've enjoyed my columns in The Gazette.

Firstly, to our game against Redruth. It was a typical 'Stoke performance - very spirited and committed, but we were unable to score when putting on pressure and allowed the opposition to score at crucial times.

Though getting relegated, we now have a lot of boys with national rugby experience and a taste of what standards and levels are required of themselves, and the team, to be successful.

What is important over the next four months is that the boys hit the gym and all look to get bigger and stronger.

'Stoke will always rely on a small squad, so it is important that they get the best out of them and an off-season on the weights will help. So maybe a local gym in town can offer the squad a good deal?

Cheers to Fyffes and their warehouse staff for the box of bananas each week. The gesture has been much appreciated and enjoyed by the team.

Also, many thanks to Motorola, who have supported the club and myself over the last three years. They have been very generous in supplying end-of-season prizes to the team.

With regards to myself, I fully intend to have at least one more season of competitive rugby.

The encouraging thing is that I have had a bit of interest from clubs in national two and three levels, so it's good to be wanted.

I will be hitting the gym and track over the summer but also enjoying my gift from the club - a patio heater.

It will be in full use with all the barbecues planned, though at this stage, with all this rain, a patio awning may have been more useful!

Congratulations to Jim Dixon on his appointment, I know he understands the enormity of the job. I hope he enjoys the good times while they're happening.

To Stuart Gordon of FXMS and Barry Champion of BJ Champion, cheers for your support and encouragement during my time.

Apparently Stuart will be hitting the gym over the summer, so I look forward to seeing the after-shots!

Finally, watch out the under-sevens. Next season you may have two little but very skilled and fast kids joining you!

Cheers and thanks RUFFY