Emsworth Bridge Club

Minutes of the 49^th AGM

3rd February 2026

18.50

Present

David Milne (Chairman), Alan Thomas (Playing Captain) and Margaret Pascoe (Secretary).

There were 19 others present.

Apologies  Rob Turner, Sue Robinson, Alan Chandler, Heather Vargas, Chris Evans and Judith Humphreys.

Minutes of the last AGM and Matters Arising

The minutes were accepted by Sylvia Mundy and seconded by Simon Firth.  There were no matters arising.

Chairman’s report

This time last year there were concerns about the low number of members.  Over last year the average number of tables was 4.5 but now the average is five 5.  An encouraging upward trend and a healthy pool of members (probably 24) with about 4 guests.  The chairman reported that the regular meetings with the ESSC committee  were amicable with no derogatory comments about the Bridge Club.  The members thanked the committee for their hard work, with particular mention of Alan Thomas.

Treasurer’s report (in absentia)

2025 started with a balance of £1,023.54 and now the closing balance is £513.69.  The main expense was the replacement of the Plastic Bidding Cards (£127.99).  Guests contributed £104.  The membership fee of £10 had been suspended for 2025 but the recommendation of the committee was to reinstate it for 2026.  The membership response was unanimous and the proposal was formally accepted by Alan Thomas and Alan Wagg.  Subscriptions are now to be paid by bank transfer (BACs).  Details can be found on the club website and the account details were also distributed during the meeting.  Members should confirm their BAC payment by emailing the Treasurer: judith.humphreys@yahoo.co.uk.  Chris Evans was thanked for auditing the accounts, and Alan Thomas for his support.

Playing Captain’s report and presentation of prizes

Prizes winners were:

1. The Pairs Championship rose bowl was won by David and Ann Milne, with Alan Thomas and Alan Wagg in second place, and Giovanni Nasti and Sarah Benson in third place.
2. The winner of the Individual prize for the best average when playing with a person who is not their partner – the Perfect Partner – was Mary Barker.
3. The player with the highest total of match points was Sylvia Mundy.
4. The player with most slams was Giovanni Nasti.

Election of Officers

 All officers agreed to continue.  This was accepted by Sylvia Mundy and seconded by Jo Ford.

AOB

None.

Next meeting Tuesday 2nd February 2027                                                                   

The meeting closed at 7.05