While this paper is a champion of free speech and seldom reacts to the comments added to articles on our website, I do feel that there is a need to remove any confusion surrounding the present ban by Saints chairman Nicola Cortese on the Daily Echo.

The ban originated after we printed an article about plans to develop the Staplewood training ground.

This news was never subject to an embargo from the club. The word embargo was never used, nor any indication given that the plans - already lodged with New Forest District Council and in the public domain - were subject to an embargo.

The story had already run on Eurosport and Sky Sports, while the BBC locally ran the story the following day before the Daily Echo hit the streets.

This was not unusual as the news was already being widely discussed on fans' forums, who had, like us, seen the plans on the council's website.

In short, the Daily Echo was not in breach of any embargo.

Why Mr Cortese decided to impose a ban is something only he can answer. We were informed Mr Cortese was keen to meet and discuss the matter, yet he has never responded to phone calls, cancelled a meeting he arranged, and as yet has failed to give any explanation.

Those, to date, are the facts.

The Daily Echo continues to provide comprehensive, independent coverage of the club, of which we remain staunch supporters.