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EBU Masterpoints Promotions latest - Jane Smith promoted

Well done Jane on being promoted to Master in the December EBU Masterpoints Promotions list for Blaby members:

You can see your current status on this and the National Grading Scheme by logging on to My EBU (see Useful Links in menu above).

Play it again

Now that we enter the hands at the Club, why don't you look at the Play it again feature which shows how it should be done - double dummy of course!

Members Only

The Members Only section contains a notice board where you will be able to leave messages for other registered members, advertise for partners, amend your details etc. To register e-mail me at haroldjohnarnold@gmail.com

Bridge Warehouse
Bridge Warehouse

The EBU's shop has undergone a rebranding and is now called the Bridge Warehouse.
This is one of a number of changes which have been made as part of ongoing efforts to increase the shop's revenue, and thus provide more profit for reinvestment by the EBU in providing activities and services for members, clubs and counties.
To visit the site follow this link.

 

News Page
This page has information and news of interest to the members. For a full list of forthcoming events, see "Calendar" on the menu and for a list of results see "Results".
 
 
  NEW VENUE FOR BLABY BRIDGE CLUB

Please note we are now at our new venue, Whetstone Baptist Church. The address is Whetstone Baptist Church, Springwell, Dog and Gun Lane, Whetstone, LE8 6LJ.

Coming from Leicester, instead of turning left into Blaby at the roundabout past the old County Arms, turn right and continue on the dual carriageway (Blaby by-pass) A426.  Continue straight on at the next roundabout but turn right at the following roundabout (signposted Cosby and Whetstone).  Continue straight on at the next roundabout (Lime Tree pub on your left – Whittle Estate on your right.  Turn left into Dog and Gun Lane.  The Baptist Church is the new large building on your left with a large car park next to it.  You can find a map under Information - How to Find Us in the menu on the left. (The picture shows the old church at the moment - the new church is shown below it)

We are anxious to make a success of this venture and hope you will support us. 

Last updated : 4th Dec 2023 15:45 GMT
  George Pohl

I am sorry to report that George Pohl passed away last weekend. 

George was very supportive of Blaby Bridge Club and regularly attended club sessions and our weekends away. He was a kind and polite man with whom it was a pleasure to play bridge.

He will be greatly missed. We extend our sympathies  to his family.

The funeral took place on February 10th, 2023, at the Chapel at Gilroes Cemetery

Last updated : 2nd Nov 2023 15:58 GMT
  Both Blaby teams win final matches of season. Blaby A win Divison 3

Well done to both Blaby Teams in winning their final matches of the season.

Blaby A beat County BC Golf 14 - 6 and finish the season on top of Divison 3.

Blaby B beat  County BC D 12 - 8. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough. They finish in last place.

You can follow results from all 5 Divisions here.

Last updated : 2nd Nov 2023 15:58 GMT
  David Petrie

It is with great sadness that I have to report the death of David Petrie whose funeral was held today, 19th April, at Great Glen Crematorium. He had been ill with dementia and died a few days after his 86th birthday.

David had been a great supporter of Blaby Bridge Club for many years. A good player, he had served on the Committee and captained and played in the League with his partner, Susan, with considerable success.  He had been an active member of the club since about 1970. 

A rugby player when younger David was interested in all sports. He also enjoyed painting and was a bit of a numismatist. He loved travelling with his partner of some 30 years, Susan Fennell.
At the bridge table he was always a perfect gentleman and highly regarded by members of the club. 

His funeral was well attended by family, and friends particularly ex colleagues and bridge friends.  Our condolences go to Susan and his daughter, Clea, and grandchildren.

 

Last updated : 2nd Nov 2023 15:57 GMT
  Krystyna Krzeczkowska

It is with sadness and shock that I have to report that Krystyna died on 25 April in St Peter's Hospital, Chertsey, aged 77, following surgery for a damaged hip returning from holiday in Germany.

Born in Trani, Italy, in 1946 to Polish parents she moved to Leicester in 1952.
She taught Mathematics and Science for many years at Shepshed High School.

Her interests were Bridge, swimming, dancing, theatre and travel. She played bridge mainly at the County Bridge Club and for Leicester University league team. More recently, she played for Blaby in the reformed teams of four league.

She recently donated family heirlooms to The Museum of Memory in Warsaw.

The funeral service will be held at St Paul's RC Church, Wakerley Road, LE5 4WH at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 30th May. This will be followed by committal at Gilroes Crematorium at 12;30 p.m. and visitation/reception at 14:00 p.m. back at the Church Hall. Cooach transport provided.

No flowers please. Donations to Ukranian refugees. If attending St Paul's there will be collection boxes for donations. Contact Andrew.krzeczk@gmail.com or telephone 07740095777 if you wish to attend but need assistance with mobility or other travel issues.

 

Last updated : 2nd Nov 2023 15:57 GMT
  Stan Williams

I am sorry to report that Stan Williams died on 2nd September.

Stan was a member of Barkby Bridge Club until it folded. He then joined Blaby and played with great success in our first team with Anne Moncrief for several years. He also supported the Club with our weekends away.

A friendly and popular man, he will be greatly missed.

The funeral  will be at Great Glen crematorium at 12.30pm on Thursday 28th September and then on to the Cradock Arms.

His son, Clive, has asked Anne Wright to co-ordinate numbers for the crematorium and the Craddock Arms. If you intend to go to either can you let Anne know via email (annewrightuk@gmail.com).

Last updated : 2nd Nov 2023 15:56 GMT
  AGM REPORT

There were some significant changes at the Club's 2023 AGM meeting.

Mike Allsopp reported that he was stepping down as chairman after 7 years. Doreen Arnold was elected as our new Chairman.

Mike reported that our numbers had steadily decreased since the pandemic, reducing our income. Together with increased costs of rent, inevitably this has meant that our reserves are dwindling.
Sadly, there had been three deaths during the year: namely David Petrie, George Pohl and Krystyna Krzeczkowska. 
Doreen 
thanked Mike for his service as Chairman particularly his leadership through the difficult time of the Covid epidemic.

Dave Pollard expanded on the financial situation. It was agreed unanimously to increase table money to £4.

 

Last updated : 2nd Nov 2023 15:56 GMT
  Neil and Pat Beasley Dimmie Fleming awards in English Bridge Magazine
  • Neil and pat awards
  • Neil and Pat receiving Dimmie Fleming Awards
  • Neil Award
  • Pat Award

After months of COVID-19 delays, we are delighted to report that Neil and Pat have finally been presented with their prestigious Dimmie Fleming awards by LCBA Chairman Dean Benton.

The Dimmie Fleming award is given by the E.B.U. to people who have made an outstanding contribution to the development of bridge at County Level. Neil and Pat are only the 5th and 6th Leicestershire recipients of the award,  following George Taylor, Marjorie Hathaway, Ramnik Samani and Robert Northage. Well deserved and thank you.

 

Further to this piece which we reported last year, an article about Neil and Pat winning this prestigious award has been included in the February 2021 edition of the English Bridge magazine. 

DIMMIE FLEMING AWARD

The Dimmie Fleming Award is given by the EBU to people who have made an outstanding contribution to the development of bridge at County Level.


We are delighted to report that this year the LCBA nominations for Neil and Pat Beasley have been accepted and were announced at the LCBA 2020 AGM. Neil has given 40 years and Pat 25 years of service to the County Association, in which through dedication and hard work they have served on several LCBA committees. Neil has been Vice Chairman, Chairman and Past Chairman, Tournament Secretary for 21 years and Master Points Secretary since 2004. Pat was Membership Secretary for 25 years and also Minutes Secretary and other positions.

Despite the problems with the Coronavirus, this has been a momentous year for Neil and Pat. In February they celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary. They are just starting their 60th year at Blaby. And now this award

A big thank you from all at Blaby the LCBA and congratulations on the Awards.

 

 

Last updated : 29th Mar 2023 10:30 BST
  Coronavirus latest advice

Your Committee has reconsidered the advice we give regarding Coronavirus. Things have improved somewhat with the Government easing restrictions.

We are now asking our members to adhere to the following advice

  • Do not come if you are displaying Covid symptoms or otherwise feel ill
  • Hand sanitiser will be provided on all tables
  • For the moment, the kitchen at Blaby Bowling Club is not available so refreshments will not be provided. If you wish you may bring your own drinks. We move to St Pius X Church Hall, Narborough, on 12th April when refreshments will be available.
  • We will continue to keep tables well spaced apart

We look forward to continue seeing you all.

Take care.

Last updated : 29th Mar 2023 10:30 BST
  Presentation to Neil Beasley after 55 years on Blaby Committee

As agreed at its last meeting, the committe has presented to Neil a David Austin rose, "The Lark Ascending", in recognition of his many years service on the committee of Blaby Bridge Club. I understand that it is now safely planted in their garden

Mike Allsopp, Chairman, has received a thank you card from Neil and Pat. 

Last updated : 29th Mar 2023 10:30 BST
  SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING

At the SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING, held at St Pius X Church Hall, on 3rd May, 2022,  the following proposals from the committe were unanimously accepted:

  • Table money be increased to £3.00 per person, at both Blaby Bowling Club and St Pius X Church Hall, to enable us to cover our costs with the lower  numbers of tables we get.
  • A quorum for future AGMs be reduced to 10 members to reflect our lower number of members.

You can see the minutes of this meeting in the Members Only menu on the left.

Last updated : 29th Mar 2023 10:29 BST
  Heating at Blaby Bowling Club

You will be pleased to know that the bridge room is now much warmer.

Last updated : 29th Mar 2023 10:29 BST

Mick Mahoney Wake

The County Bridge Club are hosting a wake for Mick on Saturday 2nd April (12:00 to 16:00). They would like to have an idea of how many are attending, so please complete the form on their website to let them know if you will be joining. Thank you. 

You can find the County Bridge Club website here

Last updated : 13th May 2022 11:13 BST

Cynthia James

The service of Thanksgiving for Cynthia was held at St Andrews Church in Countesthorpe on Fri 4th March.

 

Funeral for Cynthia Roma James

Funeral service is at Randall's Park Crematorium, Randalls Road, Leatherhead KT22 0AG on Friday 15th October 2021 at 4:15 pm

For those who are unable to attend the service in person, the funeral will be live streamed and also available to watch for 7 days afterwards, using the following log in details:

https://www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view

Login / Order ID: 110080
Password: ambfkhfd

The Family have additionally arranged a Memorial Service at St Andrew's Church, 8 Main St, Countesthorpe, Leicester LE8 5QX, on Friday 26th November 2021 at 14:00. 

Friends and family are welcome to join us at either event or both should you choose.

 

 

Last updated : 3rd Apr 2022 10:36 BST
  Mick Mahoney

We are very sorry to have to report that Mick died in the early hours of Monday, 7th Feburary.  He was taken to hospital last week with a non-covid infection. 

He attended Bridge lessons in the 1970s and became a formidable card player.  A genial man who never criticised at the table, he played mainly at the County Bridge Club and played in their A team in the winter league for many years.  Latterly he played for Blaby A team.
He was very keen to play whenever the opportunity arose playing at several other clubs. He also competed in bridge congresses and in the Midland League with great success. 

Outside bridge he was also a keen and accomplished ballroom dancer.  

We will post details of his funeral when we have them.

Last updated : 3rd Apr 2022 10:35 BST
  An update from the LCBA

Please see the following letter from the LCBA sent to all Clubs which gives an update on the situation of bridge in Leicestershire.

I am writing to give you an update about LCBA thinking about competitions for this season and to tell you about what LCBA can offer its affiliated clubs and members at this time.

The teams of 8 league

At our last meeting we reviewed the position with regard to our competitions. By now we would normally have played three rounds of the teams of 8 league. While I thought the chances of playing a full season were remote I had been hoping the position would change sufficiently to allow us to play a limited league programme starting in January 2021. There is no indication at this stage that this will be possible and the November lockdown, which was announced after our last meeting, reinforces that view. So LCBA has taken the decision to abandon the teams of 8 league for 2020-21, with a view to starting it again in September 2021 if circumstances permit.

Other teams and pairs competitions

We also thought it most unlikely that we would be able to run our annual competitions playing face to face in 2020-21, though if the position changes significantly we would revisit that decision. We have decided not to run competitions for our existing trophies online this season. LCBA is currently running a Stanley type competition and a Swiss teams competition online and intends to offer further competitions in the New Year once those competitions are complete. One possibility is a competition aimed at NGS 9 or below, but we would like to hear your suggestions and feedback. We would consider running competitions played in one session or over several evenings and while we are not holding competitions for our current trophies we would consider holding competitions in similar formats if there is demand (as we are currently doing for the Stanley type competition). Please treat this as an opportunity to let me know what you and your members would like.

The Midlands Counties Online League

In the past LCBA has entered three teams for the Midlands Counties League. This year it is being played online. Some of the players who have represented the county in the past are not playing online, so we are on the lookout for players who would be interested in doing so on an online basis. If any pair or any individual in your club is interested please don’t hesitate to let me know.

Assistance for clubs to set up as virtual (i.e. online) clubs

We now have 6 clubs in Leicestershire that have regular sessions of on-line bridge, offering master points, NGS submissions to the EBU and the ability for EBU members to continue subscribing to the EBU through the P2P scheme.  These 6 clubs have all signed up to an EBU sponsored Virtual Club scheme on Bridge Base Online (BBO) and are running duplicate pairs sessions regularly – some on two or more days a week.  LCBA is running a monthly ‘on-line Stanley’ competition and has started a Swiss Teams event – again being run on line.  Full details of these and any other competitions will be advertised on the LCBA web-site, so please keep checking it regularly. If your club is already playing online we are always available to offer help and advice, but this part of the letter is really aimed at clubs who have not taken this option.

The reason I am writing is to establish whether there is any assistance LCBA can offer to your club and its members with regard to playing on-line.  If you wish to become an on-line virtual club able to run your own sessions, we can help by initially running sessions on BBO for you while training your own team of on-line TDs so that you are able to set up and run your own on-line sessions.  There would be no charge for this – other than the charges set by BBO (typically £1.00 per table per session) and the UMS fee paid to the EBU per player (which is no different to your normal club session charge).  It may be that you would prefer to join forces with another club – either one that is already established on-line, or another that has yet to move to the on-line format, and we may be able to help facilitate this.  We can also offer ‘taster’ sessions if you wish to look at what is involved in setting up and running an on-line virtual club in order to help you decide whether or not this format is for you, and provide similar assistance to any of your members who may have no experience of playing on line and would like to start.  BBO is free to join and playing on BBO is free for all casual games; fees are only charged for organised Club tournaments and other competitions that would attract an EBU UMS charge. 

If there is anything we can do to assist you or your members with playing on-line bridge, please let me know.  I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

Dave Pollard

General Secretary LCBA

Last updated : 15th Sep 2021 17:13 BST
  Two new LCBA online tournaments

The LCBA are advertising two new BBO competitions, namely 

  • Online Stanley - pairs
  • Lockdown Swiss Teams - teams of 4

The Online Stanley does not replace the Stanley Trophy but it is designed for those with a NGS of 10 or more.

The  Lockdown Swiss Teams will consist of between 5 and 7 rounds, each against different teams and up to 2 weeks between each round.

If you are tempted by either or both competitions you can get full details and entry forms on the LCBA website. You can get to the LCBA website by clicking this link.

Last updated : 15th Sep 2021 17:12 BST
  Virtual LCBA
Virtual LCBA

The LCBA are setting up a Virtual Bridge Club which will start by running fortnightly duplicate sessions on Saturday mornings starting 10:00.  We hope you can support their events. You will need to register with them on the LCBA website.

Last updated : 15th Sep 2021 17:12 BST
  Online Bridge

As you know, the EBU have responded to the closure of bridge clubs during the present Coronavirus crisis by running EBU games on Bridgebase Online (BBO) every day for the last two months and they say they have been going extremely well.

However, some players have found the competitiveness a bit intimidating so the EBU are going to start a new “9-high relaxed tournament” at 11am every day starting this Monday, May 25th.

There are more details on the EBU website but Gordon Rainsford, Chief Executive of the EBU, gives us the following information about the proposals:

  • Like all our other games, these will be 12 boards costing BB$1.50 each. This not only helps support the EBU but also currently puts 1/3 of the money into a fund specially for supporting our affiliated clubs;
  • They will be aimed at less-experienced players and those who have an NGS no higher than a 9;
  • Only Level 2 agreements will be allowed (no multi 2Ds) and we expect that Acol will be the dominant system, although simple five-card majors systems will be allowed;
  • Players who don’t follow the ethos of the games will be asked not to come back – do tell the TD if your opponents fall into this category;
  • “Undos” will be allowed if you mis-click – but they aren’t intended to allow you to change your mind once you have chosen a call or play, just for mis-clicks.

We know that a number of our “virtual clubs” are planning games like this aimed at similar groups of players and if you are lucky enough to belong to such a club we encourage you to support it by choosing to play in their games rather than ours. However, for those of you who don’t belong to such a club, or who want to play at a different time of day, we hope that having this daily game available for you will be a welcome option.

We have information about getting started with BBO on our website. You are strongly advised to buy $BB on the BBO website and not through an app on a smartphone or tablet because Apple and Google add a hefty surcharge to these transactions.

I do hope to see many of you at these games, either next Monday or on subsequent days, but if you have any questions about them do feel free to get back to me.

 

Last updated : 15th Sep 2021 17:11 BST
  CORONAVIRUS

Following a committee meeting on Monday 16th March the decision was taken, in common with many other clubs in the area, to close the Club from Tuesday 17th March until further notice. The two league matches due on Wednesday at the Club are also cancelled as are the final matches of the season.

We regret having to take this action, but have no option given the current situation.

Please keep in touch with this website for further information and stay safe.

Last updated : 15th Sep 2021 17:10 BST
  Final League Tables

As you know both Blaby teams' matches were cancelled from 18th March onwards because of the Coronavirus outbreak.

The LCBA, after consultation with League Forum members and the League Sub-Committee, have decided to freeze the league tables as they stand as it is clearly not possible to play any matches in the foreseeable future. Positions are decided on average points per match. Furthermore, as so many matches have been left unplayed they have decided that only one team in each division will be promoted and relegated. This does not affect either of our two teams which both had a decent season - albeit a rollercoaster one for Blaby A.

In Division Two Blaby A team finished in 4th place.

In Division Three, Blaby B finished in 5th place.

You can see all the results and final tables in the menu on the left under Leicestershire League 2019/20

It is extremely unlikely that that a new league season will begin any time soon and in any case it can't happen until club play begins again. 

In the meantime look after yourselves. 

Last updated : 15th Sep 2021 17:10 BST
  Marjorie Gilbertson

I am very sad to have to report that Marjorie Gilbertson died this morning, March 3rd, at the Leicester Royal Infirmary. She had been ill for some time.

Marjorie was a long-standing member at Blaby and a fine bridge player. A lovely lady, she was a pleasure to play with.

I will post further details when I have them.

Last updated : 15th Sep 2021 17:09 BST
  Beryl Cooklin

I am sorry to report that Beryl Cooklin died on Monday 8th March after a long illness.

Both Beryl and her husband Henry, who died last year, were fine bridge players. They have given great service to Leicestershire Bridge over many years achieving many successes. Originally they played league bridge very successfully with the former Spencefield Bridge Club.

Both were long-time members of Blaby, being an integral part of our A Team. Both supported the Club and enjoyed several of our social activities such as Wine and Dine evenings.

A very courteous and pleasant lady, Beryl will be greatly missed.

Last updated : 15th Sep 2021 17:08 BST
  Tricia and Mike Allsopp Golden Celebrations

Some good news as Tricia and Mike celebrated 50 years of marriage on 8th August 2020. Congratulations to you both.

See them here on their wedding day.

Tricia and Mike Allsopp Golden Celebrations
Last updated : 22nd Aug 2021 16:13 BST
  FEEDBACK FROM COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON 16 MARCH 2020

Doreen, our Secretary, has produced the following feedback from our committee meeting:

As members will be aware the Committee decided to close the Club for the foreseeable future due to the Coronavirus.  The AGM scheduled for 14 April has therefore had to be postponed until further notice.

Below are some items that would have been brought to you at the AGM.

CLUB COMPETITIONS

Presentations will be made at the AGM when it is eventually held but the prize winners are:

Club Cup              1st          Peter Nuttall and Lloyd Danvers
                            
2nd         Roger Cook and Gerry Bucciero

Toon Cup             1st          Roger Cook and Gerry Bucciero
                            
2nd         Sandy Blades and Val Hodgson

CLUB OFFICERS

A form for nominating the Club Officers had been circulated and completed at the Club.  All the current officers have been re-nominated.  The Officers have agreed to continue in their present positions until this can be ratified at the re-arranged AGM.

They are:         Chairman:                   Michael Allsopp
                       Treasurer:                   Dave Pollard
                       
Secretary:                   Doreen Arnold
                       
A Team Captain:          John Arnold
                       
B Team Captain:          Neil Beasley
                       
Webmaster:                John Arnold
                       R
ota Organiser:          Tricia Allsopp
                       
Dial a Partner:            Doreen Arnold
                       
Committee member:   Chris Bancroft

We will of course notify you when the Club is due to re-open but in the meantime the Committee wish you all to keep safe and well.

Last updated : 3rd Mar 2021 18:19 GMT
  Malcolm Sollofe

I am sorry to have to report that Malcolm Sollofe died in Glenfield Hospital on Sunday 20th December. 

He had a bridge career stretching back for many years, originally (I believe) playing for Spencefield BC.
Playing with his wife Angie they achieved great success both in Leicestershire and elsewhere.

Unfortunately, Malcolm developed a mobilty disability a few years ago, but he did not allow this to interfere with his enjoyment of playing bridge. He never complained and was always a cheerful and friendly partner and opponent.

Malcolm and Angie were in recent years members of Blaby BC, being stalwarts in our teams.

Our sincere condolences to Angie and family.

Angie has asked me to convey her heartfelt thanks to the many Blaby members who have written to her with their condolences.

The funeral was on Tuesday 22nd December.

 

Last updated : 3rd Mar 2021 17:17 GMT
  Doreen Hillier

I am sorry to report that Doreen Hillier died on Jan 23rd at her nursing home in Stamford.

Doreen was a popular member of Blaby for many years. With her late husband Len, who died some years ago,  she greatly enjoyed and looked forward to Blaby Bridge Club weekends away.

Last updated : 3rd Mar 2021 17:17 GMT
  Roger Cook and Gerry Bucciero win Toon Cup

The Blaby Toon Cup awarded to the most improved pair has been won by Roger Cook and Gerry Bucciero. They improved their scores by a whole 3%. In second place are Sandy Blades and Val Hodgson and third Dave Pollard and Chris Bancroft. Well done to these pairs.

The competition is over the past 12 months and compares their best 15 results with the best 15 of the previous year. The competition has been curtailed by two weeks because of the Coronavirus outbreak.

You can see the final positions under Competitions - Toon Cup in the menu to the left.

Last updated : 1st Jul 2020 12:04 BST
  Lloyd Danvers and Peter Nuttall win Blaby Club Cup
Lloyd Danvers and Peter Nuttall win Blaby Club Cup

The Blaby Club Cup, the club's major pairs competition, has been won by Lloyd Danvers and Peter Nuttall. The competition is decided by the pair with the best three scores after the six rounds. Lloyd and Peter were equal with Roger Cook and Gerry Bucciero but win on countback, their fourth best score being better. Roger and Gerry were second. Well done to both pairs. 

Third place goes to Maureen Williams and Marjorie Gilbertson.

You can see all the details of this heat under Results in the menu on the left. The overall positions can be found here.

The winners and one other pair (eligible to play in the Blaby B team but not Blaby A) will be invited to represent Blaby in the LCBA Hyman Crammer competition on Wednesday 6th May 2020 at The Rothley Centre.

Last updated : 1st Jul 2020 12:04 BST
  Blaby Charity Pairs for LOROS

There was a slightly lower turnout than usual for the annual Blaby LOROS Charity Pairs competition. There were 7½ tables. We raised the excellent sum of £182 for LOROS, comprising the table money and proceeds from the raffle. Well done everybody.

The winners of the competition were North/South - Krystyna Krzeczkowska and Sandie Hassall and East/West - Mike and Tricia Allsopp. You can  see full details in the Menu on the left under Results.

Last updated : 1st Jul 2020 12:03 BST
  Roger Cook's team narrowly out of Josephs Bowl

Roger COOK's team (Roger, Dave Pollard, Gerry Bucciero and Marjorie Gilbertson) are out the Josephs Bowl, the LCBA's premier teams of 4 competition. In the quarter-final they lost to Irene KRANTZ's team (Irene, Lyn Hilton, Peter Nuttall and Rick Wilde) by the relatively narrow margin of 19 IMPs.

This ends the interest in this competition for the all-Blaby teams. However, well done to Blaby members Lyn and Peter in the Krantz team. They will play Jim MASON's team in the semi-final.

Last updated : 1st Jul 2020 12:03 BST
  Blaby Christmas Party
Blaby Christmas Party

This year's Blaby Christmas Party was attended by 29 members, slightly down on previous years.

However, the atmosphere was as festive as ever. Members enjoyed a free drink and the buffet food (provided by members themselves) was appreciated by all.

We played an individual movement of sorts. As usual there were slams galore.

The winners were:

NORTH - 1st Martin Stone    2nd Paul Webb

SOUTH - 1st Mick Mahoney  2nd Susan Fennell

EAST    - 1st Peter Nuttall    2nd Mike allsopp

WEST   - 1st Chris Bancroft  2nd Kate Boulter

Table closest to zero -Mike Allsopp, Martin Stone, Dorothy Pennington, Graham Anderson

The Chairman thanked John and Doreen for organising the evening. Many thanks too to those who helped in the kitchen. Once again a great evening.

Last updated : 1st Jul 2020 12:02 BST
  Yvonne Dunbar

It is with great sadness and regret that I have to report that Yvonne has died. She had been ill for some time. She was a quiet, friendly lady who bore her illness with great dignity.

A regular member of Blaby Bridge Club for many years, she partnered John Gaunt regularly until his failing eyesight made playing bridge impossible. Latterly she partnered Malcolm Newell.

The funeral was on Wednesday 11th December at 2 p.m. at Countesthorpe Crematorium.

Last updated : 1st Jul 2020 12:01 BST
  Bertrand "Nick" Nicholls in 100th birthday celebration

Congratulations Nick who celebrated his 100th birthday on 13th November.

Nick played at Blaby Bridge Club for many years, retiring some years ago when his bridge partner, Eric Cox, became ill. He is remembered as a friendly person, well liked by those who knew him.

What none of us knew at the time was that Nick was a decorated Second World War airman who beat incredible odds flying no less than 50 missions. He was treated to an RAF flypast on his birthday.

In March 1944 Nick was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal for outstanding courage and valour by King George VI at Buckingham Palace.

We wish you continued good health for many years to come.

You can see an article on Nick in the 14th November edition of the Leicester Mercury.

Last updated : 4th Feb 2020 16:04 GMT
  Children in Need Simultaneous Pairs
Children in Need Simultaneous Pairs

Blaby has once again held a heat of the Children in Need Simultaneous Pairs competition organised by Ecats and played throughout the UK and other countries. We had 18 pairs who raised a total of £237, comprising of table money, the raffle and a generous donation. This total has been bumped up to £250 following a further generous donation. Well done everybody.

Out of 1,803 results our top four pairs are :

Roger Cook and Gerry Bucciero - 94th
Roger Wharmby and Malcolm Newell - 160th

Peter Nuttall and LLoyd Danvers - 180th

Jane Smith and Chris Biggs - 230th

Very well done to these players.

You can see how you all did and all the details here.

Last updated : 4th Feb 2020 16:04 GMT
  Henry Cooklin

We are very sorry to report that Henry has died suddenly. Although he had been very ill in the past the sudden death has come as a great shock.

Henry had given great service to Leicestershire bridge and only recently retired from 30 years as Treasurer of the LCBA.

He has been a member of Blaby Bridge Club for many years with his wife, Beryl, both playing for our A Team on a regular basis.

He will be greatly missed. We send our condolances to Beryl.

Last updated : 4th Feb 2020 16:03 GMT
  Mick Mahoney second in Otto and Edith mixed pairs

Well done Mick who, playing with Mary Johnson came second in the first LCBA competition of the new season, the Otto and Edith Bowl. This is a mixed pairs competition with the top two married couples being invited to represent Leicestershire in the final of the Midlands Flitch.

The highest all-Blaby pair were Peter Nuttall and Marjorie Gilbertson who came 8th.

You can see all the results and how the other Blaby pair fared here.

Last updated : 4th Feb 2020 16:03 GMT
  Roger Cook, Gerry Bucciero, Cynthia James and Gill Ivell win Blaby Summer Cup
Roger Cook, Gerry Bucciero, Cynthia James and Gill Ivell win Blaby Summer Cup

Well done Roger, Gerry, Cynthia and Gill who have won this year's Blaby Summer Cup - a handicapped teams-of-four competition.

In a field of 6 teams they won with an impressive +66 IMPs. Second were John and Doreen Arnold, Ken Jones and David Ambrose with +36 IMPs. 

You can see all the details here.

Last updated : 4th Feb 2020 16:03 GMT
  Roy Pennington

I am sorry to have to report that Roy Pennington has died after a long illness.

Roy was one of our longest standing members. He, with his wife Dorothy, was a regular team player for many years and loyally served the Club in various capacities, including Chairman.

Condolences have been sent to Dorothy and their family.

Roy's funeral was on 22 August at South Leicestershire Crematorium, Countesthorpe. There was an impressive turn-out to pay their repects, including family and friends and many from Blaby Bridge club and other Clubs.

Last updated : 4th Feb 2020 16:02 GMT
  Blaby A out of Samani Plate

Blaby  A are out of the Samani Silver Plate Summer Knockout Competition. We lost a very close match to Melton in the semi-final by just 210 aggregate points. It was an extraordinary match. After the first stanza we had lost  a substantial handicap advantage and found ourselves 500 points down. This had increased to 2013 points after the second stanza. However we pulled back in the third stanza to just -130 points! Unfortunately the final 6 boards were virtually flat.

Last updated : 8th Nov 2019 17:39 GMT
  Diana Kennard

I am sorry to report that Diana Kennard died on 16th July at Coalville Community Hospital. She had suffered from cancer for some time.

A member of Westcotes Bridge Club she and her husband Tom played  for their league team with success for many years. They became members at Blaby playing regularly and were unfailingly pleasant and well liked. Ill health caused them to stop playing competitive bridge in 2015.

Our condolances go to Tom and their family.

The funeral took place on 31st July at 2.45 p.m. at Loughborough Crematorium. Donations are for cancer research.

 

Last updated : 8th Nov 2019 17:38 GMT
  Mick Mahoney and Ian Bruce win Pairs League

The final round of the the 2019 LCBA Pairs League, has been completed. Congratulations to Mick who, playing with Ian Bruce, has won Division One. Peter Nuttall, playing with Andy Mackriell, were second.

Dave Pollard and Roger Cook, the only all-Blaby pair to enter this year, consolidated their position in Division Two. 

You can see full details of how they, and other Blaby members playing with non-Blaby partners, fared by following this link.

Last updated : 8th Nov 2019 17:37 GMT
  Lyn Hilton's team wins Joyce Mixed Pivot Teams

Congratulations Lyn and her team on winning the Joyce Cup, a pivot teams of four imp-scoring competition (each player plays boards with each teammate). This year 10 teams competed at the new St Oswald venue. The top three teams were: 

  1. Lyn Hilton, Irene Krantz, Andy Mackriell and Rick Wilde +60 imps
  2. Ian Bruce, Alison Nichols, Ben Norton and Simon Stokes + 49 imps
  3. John Bee, Marjorie Gilbertson, Jonathan Hughes and Mick Mahoney +25 imp

Full details can be found here.

Last updated : 8th Nov 2019 17:37 GMT
  Marjorie Gilbertson wins Olga Cup (Ladies Pairs) - Peter Nuttall second in Buckby Cup (Men's Pairs)

The Olga (Ladies) and Buckby (Men) pairs competitions have been held.

Congratulations to Marjorie, who with Judy Hill, has won the ladies' event.

In the men's event, Peter Nuttall (playing with Rick Wilde) were second out of 17 pairs. The highest placed all-Blaby pair were John Arnold and Michael Allsopp who were third. Keith Preston (with Richard Smith) also did well coming 6th. Very well done to all three pairs.

Full details of this and how other Blaby players fared can be found here for Olga and here for Buckby.
 
Last updated : 8th Nov 2019 17:36 GMT
  Gimson Trophy Final

The Gimson Trophy, LCBA'a premier pairs competition, has taken place with no all-Blaby pairs taking part.

However, several Blaby members played with other partners. Well done Lyn Hilton (playing with Irene Kranz) who came 3= and Peter Nuttall (with Andy Mackriell) 5th.

Press here for all the scores.

Last updated : 8th Nov 2019 17:35 GMT
  Stanley Round Final Positions

The Stanley Trophy, an LCBA competition described as Expert Butler Pairs, has been completed. No Blaby pair finished in the prizes, our best pair being John Bee and Mick Mahoney.

You can see full details here.

Last updated : 8th Nov 2019 17:35 GMT
  LCBA Charity Swiss Teams - 2019

Twelve teams entered this year's LCBA Charity Swiss Teams event, hosted by Glenfield Bridge Club. Over £600 was raised which will go the Alzheimer's Research charity. Well done to all organisers.

Top Blaby members were Mick Mahoney and Marjorie Gilbertson, playing with Audrey Mount and Mary Johnson, who were 4th. Mick Long and Terry Auger, playing with Praful Patel and Bob O'Brien, were 5th.

All results can be found here.

Last updated : 30th Jul 2019 15:24 GMT
  Roger Cook's team so close in final of Leicestershire Plate

It wasn't to be a second consecutive trophy win for Roger Cook's team (Roger, Dave Pollard, Gerry Bucciero, Marjorie Gilbertson) in the Leicestershire Cup Plate, an LCBA teams of four competition with aggregate scoring. In the final they lost to John Thompson's team by the agonisingly close margin of 160 aggregate points.

Nevertheless, this was a fine performance in the competition. Well done to all the players who played in this and earlier rounds - the four above plus Henry Cooklin and Martin Stone.

Last updated : 30th Jul 2019 15:23 GMT
  Leicestershire Green Point Swiss Pairs

There was a good turnout as 36 pairs enjoyed the event played at Spondon. Thanks to director John Wilcox, and to Robert Northage & Dave Pollard who played to complete a half table. There was plenty of interest for Blaby members. Well done Peter Nuttall who, playing with Andy Mackriel, came 4th. Robert Northage & Dave Pollard, also finished well above average in 10th place.

You can see full details including how other Blaby members fared here.

Last updated : 30th Jul 2019 15:22 GMT
  Sylvia Horn

I am sorry to report that Sylvia died recently after many years of ill health.
Her funeral was on 29 October at Gilroes Cemetery and Crematorium.

Sylvia was a Blaby member for many years and played regularly in our league teams. A friendly person she was well liked at the Club and has been missed during her illness.

You can see a fuller obituary on the LCBA website.

Last updated : 2nd May 2019 15:09 GMT
  Mary Campbell

I am sorry to report that Mary passed away on 22nd July after a long illness.

Mary and her husband John were members of the Westcotes team in the LCBA Leagues for many years, with some success. They were also regular players at Blaby and were both unfailingly friendly and polite.

Our condolences go to John and their family.

Last updated : 14th Nov 2018 15:02 GMT
  John Gaunt

I am sorry to report that John Gaunt has died aged 89. 

John originally joined Blaby whilst at classes in early to mid 1960s then after a few years they with John & Tina Parts and others left Blaby and founded the Westcotes Club in 1966.
John and his wife had a very successful playing partnership at Westcotes. After his wife died, John returned to Blaby forming a partnership with Yvonne Dunbar. John struggled with failing eyesight but continued to play for many years until he was forced to give up the game fairly recently.

Unfailingly polite and friendly, John will be missed by us all.

The funeral was held at St Crispin's Church, Turnbull Drive, Off Kingsway, Braunston Town.

Donations to CALIBRE.

Last updated : 18th Jun 2018 11:25 GMT
  Blaby Privacy Policy and the General Data Protection Regulation

The new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into effect on 25th May 2018. You may have seen references to it in the English Bridge magazine or in the wider media, or in emails from other organisations.

Blaby Bridge Club has prepared a Privacy Document which covers how the Club deals with information we hold. There is a copy available at the Club. There is also a copy on this website, see Information, Privacy Policy in the menu on the left on the home page. 

If you are content with the information that we hold, how we process it or how we currently contact you, then you do not need to do anything. However, if you are not sure what information we hold or wish to change it, please contact the Secretary or Webmaster. Details of the holders of these posts can be found under Information, Committee.

Last updated : 18th Jun 2018 11:15 GMT
  BLABY 70th AGM
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Club Cup Runners Up
Runner up Toon Cup
Toon Cup Winners
Club Cup 3rd Place Prize winners
Club Cup winner
Toon Cup Runner up
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Our 70th AGM was toasted with champagne and slice of cake to celebrate our 70th anniversary. The meeting was attended by 35 members.

Mike Allsopp, our new Chairman, reported a year of highs and lows. We lost Roger Westerman after a short illness and also previous member Rob Kilby.
The A Team missed out on promotion to Division One by the smallest possible margin.
He described achievements by members in LCBA events.
There were two very successful social events: wine, dine and bridge evening and weekend away at Warwick Hilton.
Two charity bridge evenings raised £226 for Children in Need and £265 for LOROS.

Dave Pollard, Treasurer, reported a large increase in rent at the Bowling Club. The meeting agreed to an increase in table money to £2.50 at Blaby only.

The introduction of Bridgemates has been a success. It was agreed to continue to enter hands.

The Club Championship Cup was awarded to Dave Pollard and Chris Bancroft and the Toon Cup to Michael Long and Vicky Armstrong.

Last updated : 5th Sep 2017 13:39 GMT
  Rob Kilby

It is with much regret that I have to tell you that Rob Kilby has died after a long illness.
Rob, a long time member at Blaby, was Sandy Blades's bridge partner for many years until illness forced his absence.
The funeral will be at St Andrews Church, Countesthorpe, on Wednesday 5th April at 2 p.m.

Last updated : 17th May 2017 16:02 GMT
  Roger Westerman

It is with great sadness I have to tell you that Roger died in LOROS on 21st September. Roger had been a very popular member and team player for many years. Although Roger had been ill for some time this news came as a great shock.

Many people from Roger's family and circle of friends attended the funeral at Scraptoft Natural Burial Ground.

Last updated : 17th May 2017 15:55 GMT
  Blaby Celebrates 70 Years
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Blaby Bridge Club celebrations of its 70th anniversary got under way with a very successful Wine and Dine with Bridge evening. This was the first event organised by Mary Brown, our Events Organiser, for this important milestone for the Club.

Thirty of us, including Club members and friends of the Club, enjoyed a delicious buffet and drinks. Life members, Neil and Pat Beasley, who are our longest serving members of well over 50 years attended.

The matchpointed bridge event was won by John and Doreen Arnold, East/West, and joint winners North/South, Linda Burdett and Margaret Rushton & Paul and Linda Loveday. You can see full scores under Results.

Last updated : 17th May 2017 15:55 GMT