The news that Keighley Cougars have come out of administration is just the boost the club needed for the start of the season.

It follows the courageous decision by businessman Himanshu Hami Patel to take over the club. A powerful team of advisers to Mr Patel believes this investment will help not only the stature of Cougars but also the sport of rugby league.

As chairman Howard Carter says, it is now time for us all to smile after the uncertainty.

There is one man, however, who deserves the highest possible praise in fighting for the future of the club. He is administrator Peter Hara. Along with his team Mr Hara has been unswerving in trying to obtain what Cougars deserved by right.

You could say he was doing his job. But Mr Haras attitude and actions have demonstrated a level of commitment over and above what could have been expected.

It would also be wrong not to mention the patience of the creditors. Many of the non-preferential ones face a wait for probably only a fraction of what they are owed. It is to be hoped they eventually get their dues.

The only bitter memory left in the wake of this current chapter of Cougar history is that of Maurice Lindsay, who is now apparently doing another more important job connected with Rugby League.

But further comment on that matter would only take the shine off a brave new venture for Keighley Cougars.

As well as the on-field plans the club also has a series of exciting community plans which will hopefully come to fruition.

For the moment the immediate task is Sundays Challenge Cup tie. Lets hear that Cougar roar echo around the town.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.