(Issued by the BBA Committee)

1. Competitions should be enjoyable experiences for everyone, so our conduct should reflect a keen, competitive and friendly approach. Though confident that no one seeks to intimidate another, the committee is aware that such an impression may be given, albeit unwittingly. It is the responsibility of the experienced player to go out of his/her way to facilitate the entry of the newcomer to the ways of competitive bridge and to an understanding of the more arcane side of the game - in clubs, county league and competitions.
2. Clearly it is important that everyone plays according to rules, observing both the letter and the spirit. A transgression by an opponent should not be interpreted as an attempt or opportunity to gain an advantage. When any issue occurs at the table, the director should always be called in a calm polite manner. The director’s decision at the table must be accepted and play of the hand continued. Players should advise the director if they wish to appeal the decision. Any appeals will be considered at the end of the event or session where possible. BBA will follow EBU White Book guidelines to determine the time limits on appeals after each event.
3. A prompt start to each session is considered to be important and is in everyone’s interest. The director will apply published times rigorously, permitting latecomers only if the movement is not adversely affected. In a two-session event, there will be 45 minutes between sessions.
4. Both players in each pair will display identical completed convention cards.
5. During the auction, stop and alert cards will be used in line with normal guidelines. Bids will remain on display until the opening lead has been selected, and any questions have been answered.
6. The BBA committee will be pleased to consider any further suggestions from members about code of conduct at county events

Winning certain County events will lead to qualification to play in other events representing Bedfordshire. Below is a list of these events:

Please note that players should be seated at least five minutes before the starting time shown for each event.

Most County events are:

• Open only to players who have paid their BBA subscription
• Played using pre-dealt boards, with hand records provided after the event
• Computer-scored, so that results are available soon after the end of play where possible
• Played at up to Level 4 conventions

Exceptions:

• One Star Pairs (Level 2)
• Multiple Teams, Swiss Pairs, and in Division 1 of the County League (Level 4)

Competition results are normally posted on the County's website within 24 hours, and to club secretaries within four days. Prizes and Master Points are awarded to the leading players. Special awards for non-expert players and veterans are given in some events.

Entry fees include a selection of hot and cold drinks, and biscuits. Events marked (Q) are qualifying events for the County Champions' Trophy competition.