Ken Davy has pledged his club’s Super League Leaders Shield success will be the start of a new golden era for Huddersfield.

The Giants chairman watched his side beat Wakefield Trinity Wildcats 40-0 on Sunday to finish at the top of British rugby league for the first time in 81 years.

Head coach Paul Anderson’s men were crowned minor champions with one game of the regular season to spare – they finish at Bradford Bulls on Saturday – and they head into the play-offs on the back of an eight-match unbeaten League run.

And club owner Davy is confident more success lies ahead for the men in claret and gold.

“This is a tremendous moment for this famous club, and as chairman I couldn’t be prouder,” said Davy, who took over the club 17 years ago.

“So many people have put in so much hard work over the years to make a day like Sunday possible. This was an occasion for everyone to savour.

“The fact it’s 81 years since we last finished at the top of the table underlines what a magnificent achievement this is.

“But I want to make it clear that we see this success as the start of something rather than the end.

“I’ve always said success is a journey and not a destination, and the long, hard journey I’ve experienced since becoming chairman 17 years ago is far from over.

“I intend to do everything within my power to make sure that lifting the League Leaders Shield is just the start of a new golden era for Huddersfield Giants.

“During my time in charge, there have been some dark days. The darkest was our relegation from Super League just over a decade ago.

“But since gaining promotion the following season and learning to win again we haven’t looked back. I know there’s plenty more still to come.”

To recognise Davy’s dedication to the cause and the millions of pounds he has pumped into the club, the Giants produced thousands of hand-held cards for the Wakefield game with the message ‘thank you, Ken’.

They were all held aloft by fans in the closing stages as the Giants’ success was confirmed, with the man himself admitting it was a humbling experience.

“I honestly don’t know whose idea this was,” he added.

“But seeing the fans holding the cards aloft and singing my name was something I found very moving. It was remarkable.

“I’m just so pleased we were able to bring them some success on the night. I now hope there will be even more for them to savour in the months and years ahead.”

Coach Brian Noble says the announcement of several more new signings this week will signal Salford’s intent to become a major force in Super League.

The City Reds have already agreed deals with Adrian Morley, Francis Meli, Junior Sa’u and Steve Rapira for next season.

Wakefield revealed at the weekend they had sold half-back Tim Smith to the Reds.

“What this week will show is the intention of the club and [owner] Dr Marwan Koukash. He’s as ambitious as I am,” said Noble.

“This week will show he means business for Salford.”