WHILE most people were out on the streets searching for Christmas bargains, a small team of enthusiasts was plotting a successful New Year for Abergavenny Thursdays.

The invigorated club can put out several sides, among them the Reserve squad, who are doing well in Gwent Central, division one.

The young side, full of hard-running youngsters with boundless energy and a will to win, is being moulded by manager Malcolm Ewers.

He is in his first season as boss of the Penypound Mean Machine, but has the rock-solid support of team secretary Keith Didcote.

Also part of the second string set-up is Malcolm's son Gareth, who is this season's captain.

Among the vociferous supporters is Mel Ayre, said to the Thursdays No1 fan, who has been following the side for the past five years.