With the onset of December winter is now, meteorologically speaking, upon us. That entails cold, rain and in Munster, a little snow all leading up to difficult playing conditions for all outdoor sports.

It also heralds the onset of the Heineken European Cup for which many of our supporters have been waiting with their tongues hanging out.

Our senior squad managed to hammer out a hard-earned victory in our first match away to Bourgoin. This was Bourgoin's first home defeat in eighteen months. Jerry Holland, Alan Gaffney and Brian Hickey must be congratulated for this performance along with the rest of the backroom team and, of course, the players. Whilst the rest of the squad have been performing manfully in their absence the return of our international players has certainly provided a great life to Munster.

We must have had at least one thousand supporters who travelled by diverse means to Bourgoin. Long may this support continue, as wherever we go, our hosts are extremely considerate of the whole "Munster Factor" of which our supporters form a major quantum. By the way you are also both wanted and welcome because of your good humour and fantastic knowledge and appreciation of all Rugby but, in particular, Munster Rugby.

Christian Cullen has had his surgery so we shall have to wait on his recovery before we can savour the pleasure of watching him playing (no pressure). They do say that all pleasure is enhanced by anticipation so let us also enjoy that.

On a personal front, we christened Lucy last month, a great day was had by all over in Blighty, our Christmas decorations are out, but not up yet. Amazingly, I haven't gained any weight in the first six months of my presidency so hopefully my health hasn't suffered too much.

May I take this opportunity to wish all our readers a Happy Christmas and a fulfilling New Year.

Len Harty.