Bude Bridge Club AGM 12.4.2016

Chair’s Report

The membership of the club has remained fairly constant this year, although there has been another reduction in numbers attending on Tuesday evenings. It is sad that we are beginning to lose regular attendance by some of our longest-serving members through frailty.

This year has seen the sad loss of Liz Chapman, who played at the club for many years, and of course Sandra Hayden, who died, far too young, last November.

We are very grateful for the efficient ‘partner’ service run by Ann. Thanks, Ann.

We have also welcomed new members and visitors, often as a result of Neil’s excellent reports in the local paper.

Our Wednesday afternoon sessions have proved a huge success, with 5 tables on average, playing 15-17 boards in a convivial and relaxed atmosphere.

We shall be asking members what the way forward is – do we want 3 sessions a week or should we swap an evening session for an afternoon?

The Cornwall Congress came to Bude last September and looks to becoming a regular feature in the county. Several members played,  with Bob and Ann winning the Friday afternoon event. There were also creditable performances from Linda, Alan and Neil and Sarah.

We are fortunate in having members who bring their experience from playing in County and wider events. Alan has regularly represented the County B team and Jane and Chris the County C Team.

Alan and Chris have both had success in County events.

Several of our members also play at other clubs (Barnstaple, Taw Vale, Wadebridge) and gain experience from further afield.

The club web-site continues to develop and is well-visited – nearly 1,000 ‘visitors’ every week.

As well as the twice-weekly update of club results, there is also a monthly news report from Neil; updates from the National Grading Scheme and Masterpoint promotions; and a ‘Problem of the Month’.

I would like to pay tribute to your committee who have given a strategic steer to the club. To Jane, our long-suffering and efficient secretary, to Neil our Vice-Chairman who will be taking over as Chairman, to Stephen as Treasurer and to committee members Ann, Linda, Maureen, Christine and Steven, all of whom take on other roles in the club organization.

We are also grateful to all those members who turn up early to set up, to those who help supply refreshments, and to that gallant band who stay behind to ensure everything is packed away at the end of the evening.

The club could not function without our team of experienced and calm Directors. It is pleasing that Bob and Stephen have agreed to help direct and score, initially on Wednesdays. Please show your appreciation to Linda, Neil, Steven and Chris.

Finally, a huge thank you to ALL the club members who have played with grace, humour, dignity and some competitive edge to make Bude Bridge what it is. If any member ever has any comment or problem – well, that is what the committee is for, so please don't ever hold back on speaking to one of us about it.