THE Ex-Saints Association have officially become part of Southampton FC - after 40 years of existence!

Under Roy Beazley, the Ex-Saints have been raising money for charity for over four decades.

They have raised over £4m, despite not having any assistance from the club - despite requests for help.

Under a new agreement, the two parties will work together for the first time.

The club will allow the use of its facilities for fund-raising activities with the help of the Supporter Services Department.

In return, Beazley and John Webster will try to ensure ex-players are available for matchday and other Saints events.

Andy Oldknow, Saints' Commercial Director, said: "We are absolutely delighted to have signed this agreement and are looking forward to working alongside Roy and John to build upon the great work that has been achieved to date.

"We know our supporters are rightfully proud of their club's heritage, and the players that made the club as famous as it is.

"We are sure they will be pleased to see many old-faces' around the building on matchdays and at other events".

Beazley said "After 40 years, to finally get an affiliation with this great club is a dream come true.

"Working with Andy Oldknow and the team to get this far has been a delight.

"Both John Webster and I have been bowled over with the club's enthusiasm to make this project work.

We cannot wait to get started. We have asked David Luker (head of supporter services) to take a place on our Board so that the planning and management of our ideas will become easier to facilitate."

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