It’s been a busy January transfer window here at Exeter City, and one which resulted in, I’m pleased to say, more incomings than outgoings.

It started well with talented midfielder Joe White joining us on loan from Newcastle, followed by Demetri Mitchell, who began his career at Manchester United.

Then came defender Will Aimson, along with goalkeeper Gary Woods and, just to keep us all on our toes, James Scott and Kevin McDonald put pen to paper and became Grecians in the last few days of the window. And don’t forget a very brief stint from everyone’s favourite Icelandic goalkeeper Jökull Andrésson, who joined us on an emergency seven-day loan.

These signings really bring some depth to the squad, and they already look good. Joe’s debut was impressive and talk about an impact sub – Demetri came on the pitch on Saturday and pretty much scored with his first touch in the game against Charlton.

We’ve said goodbye to some ECFC favourites, with club captain Matt Jay departing for Colchester, Timothée Dieng heading to Gillingham and Sam Stubbs to Bradford.

It was quite moving to see MJ on his way, I’ve known him since he was nine years old when he first started playing for the Academy and it’s been fantastic to see him develop over the years. All three players were an important part of our promotion squad last season, and they leave with our gratitude and genuine best wishes for the future.

January also saw the launch of our new City for All scheme. As is befitting of a supporter-owned club, it’s a scheme which helps people attend a match who may not be able to afford it. Led by Exeter City Supporters’ Trust, we want to do all we can to help people affected by both the cost of living and the energy crisis. All the information is on our website if you, or someone you know, would like to find out more.

The away win against MK Dons last week was fantastic – you’ve got to hand it to the travelling fans who turn out whatever the weather and sing throughout the game and, although it wasn’t to be for the match at home against Charlton, a packed park is always a sight to behold.

Next weekend sees the Exeter Half Marathon taking place alongside the River Exe – organised by our partner charity, Exeter City Community Trust. Sadly, I didn’t submit my entry in time and it’s a sell out, so I’ll have to settle for being a spectator…but you’ll certainly see some familiar faces, that’s for sure. Gary and his management team Kev, ‘under 23’ Perks, ‘fitness’ Max, ‘physio’ Sam Alfieri and ‘psycho’ Jon are all taking on the event to raise funds for both our work in the community and also for the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation.

With both former Grecian Marcus Stewart and Exeter City Community Trust Social Inclusion Officer Pete Eveleigh battling the disease, this cause is close to the heart of the Exeter City family. What brilliant role models these guys are for our players, Don’t forget to give them a shout of ‘up the city’ if you see them!

And ‘we’re top of the league’ – well, our women’s team are! Showing us how it’s done, they took on and beat Cardiff City Women 2-0 in front of a record crowd at Exwick Sports Hub on Sunday, to put them top of the FA Women’s National League. Fittingly, it was the 50th game in charge for joint managers Abbie Britton and Aaron Wakley – so a very well-deserved result for them all!

Back to the men’s game, and looking ahead, the matches are coming thick and fast. We’ve got Burton Albion away and then why not make a Valentine’s day date with us for the Shrewsbury Town match at St James Park on February 14? Surely it’s got to be the best date in town…!

Look forward to seeing you at the Park soon – Up the City

Julian Tagg, Exeter City Club President