Essendon Football Club would like to thank its record-high 79,318 passionate members.

The final membership tally eclipses the club’s previous record set last year, and Chairman Lindsay Tanner extended his gratitude to the loyal fans.

“On behalf of the Essendon board, executive, staff and players, I’d like to personally thank each and every one of our 79,318 members for helping the club reach a new membership record in 2018,” Tanner said.

“The loyalty and passion of our members is something we don’t take for granted and we are incredibly proud to have eclipsed our previous club record of 67,768 which was set in 2017.”

Tanner said the club is committed to continue to listen to its members and make further improvements to ensure all members are given a great experience.

“As a club, we have been listening to our members’ feedback and will continue to challenge ourselves to improve in all areas across our member arrangements, service, products and experience.”

The club is developing in leaps and bounds on and off the field, and Tanner said there are exciting times ahead for all Bombers.

“This is a very special moment and significant milestone for everyone involved in the club and as we build towards the celebration of our 150th anniversary in 2021, we now have our sights set on 100,000 members and beyond.

“There is a great sense of excitement about the future, both on and off the field, and we look forward to sharing the excitement of remainder of the 2018 season with you over the coming weeks.

“A heartfelt thank you for choosing to Don the Sash and be a member of the Mighty Bombers.”