KEN HODCROFT, the Hartlepool United chairman, has reiterated that, after almost 16 years in control of the club, he remains as committed as ever.

But Hodcroft has called on supporters to play their part and make sure new boss Colin Cooper can be competitive in the transfer market.

Following relegation, Pools will be affected by stringent salary capping regulations in League Two next season.

Under Increased Oil Recovery's stewardship, Pools have enjoyed nine of the last ten seasons outside the bottom rung of the football ladder, but last season's relegation followed a number of uninspiring campaigns at Victoria Park.

And Hodcroft admitted in a statement on the club's website yesterday: "Relegation was extremely disappointing but we must now all focus on a brighter future and unite behind our new management team and all the players.

"In September it will be 16 years since IOR became owners at Hartlepool United and during that time we have had a lot more highs than lows; HUFC staff and the owners remain fully-committed, despite the long wait for the Council to sort out the club's ground lease, and look forward to writing many more proud and happy chapters - starting this season.''

He added: "The passion and commitment the supporters have for this club has never been undervalued, and you can rest assured that I and the owners have always taken seriously our responsibilities for carrying out your and the club's hopes and ambitions to the best of our ability.

"We haven't rewarded that loyalty on the pitch in recent seasons, especially in home games, but we remain determined to bring success.

"Not everyone will agree with the way the club is run by IOR or the way we do not always communicate our every move but over 16 years we believe it is the correct way forward.''

Hodcroft opted to oust John Hughes from his post as head coach at the end of last season, despite appointing the Scot only six months previous.

In appointing Cooper and assistant boss Craig Hignett, Pools have a traditional management structure of an official manager and No 2 for the first time since Danny Wilson and Ian Butterworth were appointed in 2006 - the pair arriving after Pools' previous relegation.

The chairman admitted: "Colin is an organised, ambitious and enthusiastic young manager with an excellent coaching background and a real determination to succeed; we all wish him every success.

"Craig is deadly serious about his football but brings his special personality to the club and again we wish him well in his new role.

"They will make their own mark on HUFC but they have been selected from many applicants based on their present talents and keenness to give management a try and their belief to succeed.

"Such a formula has worked for HUFC in the past and its time it was given another try.''

Season ticket prices at Victoria Park have once again been pegged back at £150 and there has been a healthy take up since the new manager was appointed.

But Hodcroft openly admits that the more tickets sold, the better Cooper's chances of making an impact in the transfer market.

"Their task will not be easy as funding for new players will be restricted by the stark reality of our return to League Two after six years.

"Income into the club from all sources is important (especially advertising and season ticket sales).

"Once the figures are compiled the club will then need the agreement and approval of them from the Football League. Poor income (actual and projected) will mean less.

"IOR as owners cannot influence that number - only you the sponsors and fans can. If the number is low there will be no point saying that 'Cooper does not have the support and backing of myself or the owners'.

"Colin will have that support but if the Football League says no to a player or a loanee, then Colin will have to make and do with what he has.

"However, he is currently looking to bring in some new faces and we will work hard to justify them within our predicted income stream to the Football League before August.''