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Minehead Club -"The Beginnings"

Club of the Month – Minehead

Memories of The Minehead Bridge Club’s beginnings are fading, but as a child I remember my very good bridge player Grandmother telling us about the early days between the two Great Wars when she would go along - walking naturally - to an afternoon’s rubber bridge at The

Wellington Hotel with the Ladies, all dressed up in their finery of course! At the helm in those days was Mrs Perry and membership was by invitation only! During WW2 it all came to an end for a while, but with the return of the men who had learnt our lovely game in The Officer’s Mess, commenced again - with the men invited! The club changed venue to The Red Shoes Dancing Studio but records didn’t begin until 1990 when Cherrie Cooper-Hawken who had been fiercely keeping things in order retired as Club President.

The club had grown under Cherrie’s careful leadership and with her retirement, Frank Taylor who had been the Honorary Secretary since

he moved into the area, became President in 1990. He then insisted on minutes being taken! The club made another move on to The Beach Hotel. Once there, under Franks guidance, it was decided to move into the modern game of Duplicate and eventually we became affiliated to the English Bridge Union. But it was ‘Ssh keep your voice down, we’ve got that board next!’ So along came silent bidders - remember them? - and finally the bidding boxes we all use now. Going from strength to strength, members were playing County events and with the arrival into the area of Kathleen Shrewsbury - soon to become our new Secretary, some were also representing Somerset for Inter-County

events.

But by now the Beach Hotel was too small for a growing membership as Frank, along with David Beach were by now teaching groups and encouraging new inexperienced members into the fold. So on to The Oak Room at The Hobby Horse - too dark - and on to The Northfield Hotel - nice bar! - where we ‘lodged’ for years, with Alice and Peter Jackson by now very much at the helm, until the management decided they required the Conference Room themselves.

We are now very happily settled in The Avenue Methodist Church Hall, playing duplicate bridge on Tuesday and Thursday evenings under the guidance of our trained Directors. Chris Parkin is our current Chairperson, and also teaches Beginners or Improvers from time to time as does Nigel Cox. Our Thursday evenings are non pay-to-play, just a very informal ‘light duplicate’ evening which our less experienced members seem to prefer, and with a £5 prize for coming top! More experienced players are very welcome but are only allowed

the prize once......after that they are handicapped out to enable our less experienced members the chance to win something. With careful guidance and encouragement they are slowly gaining confidence and some are filtering in to play on Tuesday as well.

We have around eighty members, some who are just starting to ‘climb the ladder’ and have just become Local Masters. We cover a huge range of experience, including one member who is a Grand Master which is almost as high as you can go! Our members play for pleasure and some represent the club or themselves in County Events, and some play for the County and some in National Events.

We are a friendly bunch, always happy to welcome anyone into our club. There is usually a Spare Partner, so you can arrive on your own. We now have a website too, so why not google Minehead Bridge Club and read all about us. We’d love to see you and you can become part of our story.

Jackie Moody – (joined in 1984.)

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(It was your editor’s first bridge club in Somerset – I joined in 1977 and can endorse what a friendly welcome I received) 

A G M MINUTES 2023

Minutes of Minehead Bridge Club AGM

Held on Tuesday, 3rd October, 2023 at the Minehead Methodist Church Hall

Apologies for absence were received from: Steve and Doreen Beswick, Mike Currie, Marion Jehu, Malcolm Percival and Ann Watkins

The Minutes of the 2022 AGM were approved:   Proposed by Janet Handley and seconded by Sally Stuttard .  There were no matters arising.

 

Chairman’s Report

Chris welcomed everyone to the meeting.  He was pleased to see it so well attended with 22 members present.  He reported that the club has had a relatively good year, which was well attended by most members.  Although the bridge mates have been refurbished there have been a few technical problems, most of which have been resolved.

The Chairman had intended to organize a recruitment drive along the same lines as the Tennis Club’s Rusty Raquets, but he has had a few health issues and this has not been possible.  Chris asked whether anyone would take over from him as Club Chairman. He has been in this role for over fifteen years and would like someone else to take the helm to enable him to concentrate on recruitment and training new members.  If the club is to survive and thrive, an increase in our ageing membership will be needed.  Chris would be on hand to support the new Chairman and would be willing to direct when needed.  Nobody offered to take over the chair and Chris agreed to continue for another year.

The Club has again entered a team into the County League this year.  This involves nine matches played monthly on a Friday night. Chris asked members to let him know if there was enough interest to enter another team.  There is no limit to the number of teams that a club may have.

It was reported that the play at Dulverton Bridge Club, usually 24 boards on a Monday evening was a lot quicker than at Minehead.  Members were asked to speed up play generally and to play their lead card BEFORE filling out a convention card.

Chris thanked Corinne for her work as Secretary and for organising tea and coffee plus Paul for setting up the tables prior to our bridge evenings.  Davina was thanked profusely for being our accountant and also for her work with the website.  Graham was also thanked for operating the dealing machine, opening up and clearing up at the end of the evening. Tony and Davina were thanked for directing.

 

Trophies were presented:

Club Championship       Jed Goldsmith and Tony Goldsmith

Men’s pairs                     Chris Parkin and Paul Rees

Ladies pairs                     Paula Parkin and Betty Glossop

 

Treasurer’s Report

Davina reported that the Club’s finances are healthy and that our outgoings have been reduced by playing in the small room during the cold months of last winter and by organizing the half time refreshments in house.  Income from five playing tables per week is needed to cover our expenses.  Davina was of the opinion that neither an increase in membership fees nor table money would be necessary.

 

Election of Officers

Chairman:       Chris Parkin

Secretary:       Corinne Rees

Treasurer:        Davina Lord

Committee members:   Mike Currie, Rose Dascombe, Graham Lavender, Janet Handley, Chris Smith, Jim Waterman.

 

A.O.B.

Paul Rees asked whether there would be a Christmas function this year and he was told that one would be organized.

Corinne mentioned the successful Friday afternoon bridge session in the Carhampton Village Hall, usually 2 or 3 tables.  It is a low key, no pressure bridge session welcoming new players and those wishing to return to the game.  Chris Smith was thanked for organizing these Friday afternoon sessions.

The meeting closed at 6.55pm    Date of next AGM  October 8th, 2024

 

A.G.M.

MINUTES OF MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB A.G.M.

Held 1st October 2019 at Minehead Methodist Church Hall

Introduction and Report by the Chairman:  Chris welcomed everybody to the meeting.  The last 12 months have been pretty successful – we’ve lost a few members but have gained a few new ones as well.

Especial thanks to those who come early and help to set up – particularly Peter, Steve and Doreen and Paul who comes and helps clear away even though he may not have played.  Thanks to Sally and Davina and the Scorers, particularly Terry who did his best to revive some ailing Bridgemates.  Also the Directors for the smooth running of the evenings – sometimes it’s not so easy to do so and play bridge at the same time.

If you aren’t feeling too well, particularly if you have got a cold, please don’t come!  There is a mobile here you can ring even if it is at the last minute.  Also, please don’t tell other players how to bid or play their cards.

Approval of last year’s Minutes of the AGM and Apologies for Absence:  The Minutes were approved – proposed by Wendy Barker and seconded by Terry Stuttard.

Apologies for absence were received from Marion Jehu, Ron Tapp and Sandra Love, Sally Milton, Tony Goldsmith, Jean and Gordon Cunningham, Jackie Moody and Roy and Val Anderson.

Hon. Treasurer’s Report:  Davina presented the accounts showing a balance of £8,177.89 at the close of business last Friday 27 September.  She pointed out that we need six tables per session to cover our expenses.  We have had to replace both laptops and have also made some charitable donations.  Subs of £5 are now due.

Election of Committee Members: Thanks to the Committee.  Mike Currie, Steve and Doreen are retiring and Flora Horne, Nigel Trevelyan and Corinne Rees have agreed to stand.  This was proposed by Paula Parkin and seconded by Ann Watkins.

Presentation of Awards:

Club Pairs Championship:  This was awarded in error to Terry and Malcolm. 

                                            It was actually won by Chris and Paula Parkin (Many apologies from Secretary!)

Ladies Pairs:                         Jan Chadwick and Ann McCann

Mens Pairs:                         Terry Stuttard and Malcolm Percival

Frank Taylor Trophy:          Terry Stuttard                                         

Any other business:  Buying a dealing machine.   This would cost us in the region of £4,000.  A lively debate on the pros and cons of this – able to view the hands and see the par score that should have been made, handy for Chris for teaching hands for his beginners and Sim Pairs hands can be downloaded.  By being able to look at the hands afterwards, in theory improving one’s game.  There were doubts as to whether it was worth the money but it was also felt that it was a reasonable expenditure. They now have one at Taunton Bridge Club which was resisted for some time but has since proved popular.  A vote was taken – 22 for and 8 against so the motion is carried.

Musical events here at the Church.  Thursday 5 March and Thursday 18 June.  We don’t know as yet if they are in the Church or in the Hall.

Chris asked for help with the scoring.  Chris Smith, Paul Rees, Sara Warren and Nigel Trevelyan duly volunteered.

Peter proposed a vote of thanks to Chris who carries out his duties as a Chairman should.  Thank you very much.

Christmas Dinner:  Thursday 19 December at the Northfield Hotel.  The list is here for you to add your names and choices.

Next Year’s AGM – Thursday 1st October 2020 at 6.00 pm.

July 2019

MINUTES OF COMMITTEE MEETING OF MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB

HELD 16 JULY 2019

PRESENT:  President Chris Parkin, Treasurer Davina Lord, Secretary Sally Stuttard

Committee:  Liz Roach, Doreen & Steve Beswick, Mike Currie and Terry

Stuttard

Apologies for Absence received from Rose Dascombe

The meeting was called to discuss the feasibility of our Club investing in a Bridge Dealing Machine. 

We have £8,500 in funds at the moment but the downside is, we are only just covering our costs – approx. £100 per week.  We need to have six tables per session to break even.

By the time we have bought the machine PlayBridgedealer 4+ which is 3,150 + VAT, new card wallets and cards we are probably spending about £4,000 in all.  This machine has a memory stick so it doesn’t need to be plugged into a laptop. 

They have one at Taunton Bridge Club and the Wednesday people deal the hands for Friday and vice versa.  It takes approx. 15 minutes to deal the hands.  The hands can then be displayed on the Website when the results are posted.

Chris thinks about 50% of the membership would be interested in reading the results and this figure would probably rise once we were up and running.  It would also be useful for teaching as you can load specific hands including those for Sim Pairs.

At the moment we have 5 Bridgemates that no longer respond.  If we need to replace them new ones cost £112.20 each. (Subsequent to the meeting, Terry spent the weekend trying to update them and now we have 1 more but I have just spoken to Nigel Lancaster at Bridgemate UK and he says if we send them to him he will try and revive them).

The other costs we have are that Chris’s laptop will need replacing in the near future, the summer evening at the Golf Club and the Christmas Party.  Davina thought we should keep at least £3,000 in the kitty.

The Committee were in favour of buying the dealing machine but we will bring it to the membership at the AGM.

NEW VENUE

Dear All

By an overwhelming majority we have voted to move to the Methodist Church Hall on the Avenue.  The vote was 63 for the Methodist Hall v 16  for the Golf Club.If any of you know people who don't have email, would you be kind enough to let them know.  We go back to playing on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

We plan to start playing there on Thursday 13 March.  The dates we know the Hall is not available are Thursday 22nd May (Polling Day) and 29 & 31 July(Music Festival).

The committee hopes that this will turn out to be a happy new home for the Bridge Club.

With best regards

Sally

 

A Guidance Statement from the EBU

There has been a general warning about coronavirus on our web site for some weeks. I feel the time has come for me to make a more pro-active statement.

Coronavirus is, of course, a real threat. The problem is that no-one knows how much of a real threat. We have all read in the papers about washing our hands regularly, using alcohol rub or soap and water, trying not to touch our faces and so forth. We know who the section of the community most likely to suffer worse from the virus, and it rather uncomfortably matches our own demographic. There is no reason to despair, however – we must be sensible, and try to balance how we live with taking extra care.

Firstly, the most obvious thing to do is for clubs to make sure there is plenty of soap available, and that the hot water is on. You must also lay in a supply of paper towels: the hand dryer that hasn’t been se

As players, we must be sensitive to others. I played against a woman recently who, purely through force of habit and with no malice aforethought was putting her thumb in her mouth whilst trancing (or “planning the play” as those of us prone to mind-blankness put it, prior to banging down the ace and king of trumps). That’s a no-no at the moment. If you see anyone doing anything likely to pass germs from mouth to cards, it’s best to gently remind them that it’s best not to. But please, don’t do it in a manner calculated to wind people up, or cause more panic than is strictly necessary (in my opinion no panic is ever necessary, but perhaps I’ve led a charmed life).

Conversely, if you are of a blasé disposition, don’t mock people who seem to you to be going over the top with their hand lotions, sprays and other unctions – we all deal with things in different ways. Don’t forget, if the hand lotion brigade feel foolish or shamed they’re going to stop coming and there’s no game.

On the subject of other people, if you’re aware of a friend or acquaintance at the bridge club who has self-isolated why not give them a call? Contact with people is a big reason for playing bridge – I’m sure a call would be welcome. And you never know, someone might be running low on food or household needs and might appreciate your doing a bit of shopping for them and leaving it on the doorstep.

So there we are: Be careful
Be tolerant
Be kind.

At our end, we’ll provide what support we can. We’re investigating the possibility of taking games on-line, and you will be kept informed.

Look after yourselves, look after each other. Ian 

A.G.M.

MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Tuesday 3 October 2017

MINUTES

Present:  Chris Parkin – President,  Davina Lord – Treasurer, Sally Stuttard – Secretary, Committee Members Linda & Derek Trump, Janet Handley and Mike Currie and 25 Club Members

Introduction and President’s Report

We held a minute’s silence in remembrance of those members we have lost over the past year – namely Jean Hughes, Patricia Bedwell and Marjorie Price.

Chris welcomed everyone to the meeting and was pleased to see a much better turn out than last year. 

It has been a good year for the Club but it would be better if more Thursday players come on Tuesdays and vice versa.  We have between 52 and 54 regular players up to a total of 62 occasional players.  We need to have a look at recruiting more people especially as some members are leaving the area including Jean and Eric Jones, and Doreen Thrift so if you do know of anybody wanting to learn bridge – who can at least play whist – we might consider another course if we got enough interest.

We have received some flyers from Pianola – a company that mainly helps with the management of club membership.  We have the literature and will have a Committee Meeting to discuss if it is of interest to this Club.

Thank you as ever to the people who help on a regular basis – Peter is the first to arrive and the last to leave – Doreen and Steve, Ann and Roy and Paul who comes and helps clear up at the end of the evening.

Approval of the Minutes of Last year’s AGM

These were duly approved – proposed by Anne Miles and seconded by Corinne Rees.

Apologies for absence received from Doreen & Steve Beswick, Roy & Val Anderson, Ron Tapp & Sandra Love, Marion Jehu, Sally Milton and Sally Saunders

Hon Treasurer’s Report

Davina presented her report showing a net balance of £8,576.72.  The receipts are slightly down from last year – the overall difference between last year’s current account and this year is £29 mainly due to falling numbers. 

The accounts were approved by Derek Trump and seconded by Jackie Moody.

Presentation of Awards:

The Club Pairs Championship was awarded to Nigel Cox and David Thrush; The  Ladies Pairs to Janet Handley and Sally Stuttard;  the Mens Pairs to Malcolm Percival and Terry Stuttard and the Frank Taylor Trophy to Sally Stuttard

Minutes of AGM 3.10.17 Cont.

Any Other Business

Nigel Cox had written asking that we should revert to announcing 12-14 No Trump hands particularly when there are visitors to the Club.  After a vote it was overwhelmingly agreed that we should do so. 

He was also concerned that we did not have a new Rule Book but we assured him that we are going on a course shortly and will be getting this.

Christmas Dinner – the Golf Club have given us a menu for £20 per head.  We are waiting to see what date they can offer us. 

 

Peter thanked all the Committee for their continued contribution to the Club and thanks also to Jackie for doing such a goiod job.

The meeting closed at 6.30pm.  Next year’s AGM will be on Thursday 4 October 2018.

Minutes A.G.M. 6th October 2016

MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB

Annual General Meeting

Thursday 6th October at 6pm, Minehead Methodist Church

MINUTES

Present:

Committee Members: Chris Parkin, Linda Trump, Derek Trump. Members:Tony Goldsmith, Geraldine Goldsmith, Chris Smith, Pat Bedwell, Peter Jackson, Anne Miles, Paul Rees, Corinne Rees, Paula Parkin, Sally Milton, Jean Jones.

Apologies: (Committee) Sally Stuttard, Davina Lord, Janet Handley. (Members) Cathy Nicholls, Wendy barker, Maureen Tucker, Jackie Moody, Roy Anderson, Val Anderson, Steve Beswick, Doreen Beswick, Ann Watkins,

Introduction and President’s Report:

  • Chris opened the meeting. He asked members to remember Karen Blackwood and David Doyle; a sad loss this year.

 

Ted Nash has decided not to join but he is welcome to come and play as a non-member any time.

 

  • Chris reported that it had been a good year for the club although membership had fallen from 94 to 76. Tuesday evening seems to have stable attendance but attendance at Thursday evenings has gone down generally this year.
  • A lot of advertising went into beginners lessons with fliers in numerous venues throughout the area. Unfortunately uptake was very low and the response hardly merited the amount of time involved in setting them up. Nine people have accessed the lessons with seven still involved. Hopefully four or five of these will join the club.
  • All members who help run the sessions were thanked by Chris. Particularly, Peter, Steve, Doreen and Rose for arriving early to set up the hall. Sally doing sterling work as Secretary and Davina as Treasurer and looking after the web pages.  Paul staying late to clear up and Tony on the computer. Special thanks went to Jackie for her super efforts in the kitchen.
  • The date of the Christmas Dinner has been agreed by the committee as Thursday 15th of December. The cost for each member will be £15. The club will subsidise the meal and pay for the wine.
  • Club meetings over the Christmas period. There is no restriction from the venue but it has been agreed there will be no club night on either the 27th or 29th of December.

 

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of last year’s AGM were approved

Treasurer’s Report

Chris gave the treasurer’s report on behalf of Davina. A balance sheet was provided.

  • Overall receipts are lower than last year. Subscriptions and table money on club nights are down, particularly for Thursday evening. Receipts for the Christmas dinner were lower. However, competition monies were substantially increased and tuition fees slightly up.
  • Overall payments were very similar to 2015 although there was a significant increase in the cost of refreshments.
  • The final balance continues to be very healthy showing a substantial increase from last year.

There were no queries on the accounts. The accounts were duly agreed (proposed by Paula, seconded by Derek). Thanks were given to the Treasurer .

Election of Committee Members

Cathy Nichols, Roy Anderson and Terry Stuttard have to stand down as they have served on the committee for their allotted years. Chris thanked everyone and gave special thanks to Terry for helping with the lessons, duplicate boards and technical issues.

Mike Currie, Doreen and Steve Beswick have agreed to stand. No other nominations had been received and the three members were voted in unopposed. (proposed by Peter, seconded by Paula).

All other current   members have agreed to remain on the committee.

Prize Winners

Awards were presented to the following. Congratulations to:

Club Pairs: Championship Winners:            Malcolm Percival & Alan White

          Runners –up                              Nigel Cox & David Thrush

Ladies Pairs                                                  Ann Watkins and Marion Jehu

Men’s Pairs                                                    Malcolm Percival & Richard Watkins

Frank Taylor Trophy                                    Sally Stuttard

Any Other Business

  • Peter was given a gift and a vote of thanks for all his work
  • Chris was thanked on behalf of all members for all his work and leadership of the club.
  • A unanimous vote was taken to request that NO coppers are used for table money as it is very inconvenient.
  • Chris thanked members for coming.

 

Meeting closed at 6:25p.m.

Next AGM   3rd October 2017

Committee Meeting Minutes

MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB COMMITTEE MEETING

6 SEPTEMBER 2016

 

Present:  President Chris Parkin:  Treasurer Davina Lord:  Secretary Sally Stuttard:

                Roy Anderson:  Janet Handley:  Linda and Derek Trump

 

Apologies for Absence received from Terry Stuttard and Cathy Nicholls

 

Chris welcomed everyone to the meeting and thanked the outgoing Committee Members Roy, Terry and Cathy for the support they have given to the Club.

Christmas Dinner:  Sally had spoken to Roger at the Northfield and all agreed Thursday 15 December was the best date.  The cost is £18 per head but the Club will subsidise the event so we only pay £15.

Davina presented the accounts showing approx. £5,500 in the current account and £3,200 on deposit.  We all agreed that this was a healthy balance.  Davina thanked Peter Jackson for all his help with her taking over the reins as Treasurer. 

Unfortunately, there is not enough money to make any grand gestures but it was agreed to bump up what we pay to Children in Need and maybe make a donation to Home Start that supports local families.

We will get new cushions as the ones we have need replacing.

Sally read out Cathy’s email.  She praised the efforts of Chris, Terry and Sally in teaching and encouraging new players to come to the Thursday night sessions,  Because of their efforts the Club seems to be thriving.  She also approved the earlier starting time.  The only complaint was sticky “Pass” cards.  We will ask Doreen on her return to buy new bidding cards as they are all getting a bit worn.

We discussed the lack of new members moving over from Thursday to Tuesday nights.  We would like to think both nights are friendly and welcoming and can only hope that some brave spirits will give Tuesday a try.

With no other business the meeting closed at 6.30 pm.

 

 

 

           

MINUTES OF COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON 21 FEBRUARY 2014 

at MAGNOLIA COTTAGE

 

PRESENT:  Chris Parkin, President:  Peter Jackson, Treasurer:  Sally Stuttard, Secretary, Davina Lord, Jan Chadwick and Terry Stuttard.  Apologies for absence from Malcolm Percival, Cathy Nicholls and Roy Anderson.

 

MATTERS ARISING:

Following the Club’s enforced move to the Red Cross at the start of the year, it has become very clear that the premises are not big enough.  On a Thursday night when there are often 11 tables it makes a very uncomfortable night so bearing this in mind the Committee have been scouting round to find alternative premises that would be more suitable.  The following options have been found:

 

Wyndam House.  The dining room in this residential home off Blenheim Road. 

The cost of this would be £50 per night.  Advantages – warm, light room – plenty big enough and they are keen to have us.  The staff would supply tea and coffee that they would want us to pay for.  Disadvantages – all equipment would be stored in the cellar which would have to be brought up for each session:  possibility of the noro virus or similar shutting the home down without warning:  steep slope up to the front door with not much parking and only one space by the door.  Not sure that in the long run people leaving relatively late at night would be an inconvenience.

 

Minehead Golf Club:  We have had a letter outlining their conditions for us to use the Dining Room.  The cost of this would be £48 + VAT per session for Tuesday and Thursday nights.

Advantages – warm carpeted room.  They would set the room up for us.  Parking outside the door.  They are short of funds so want a guaranteed source of revenue.

Disadvantages – In the summer we would not have exclusive use of the Clubhouse.  Members of the Golf Club would be encouraged to use alternative areas but they would be quite at liberty to use the lounge area.  They “retain the right to withdraw the use of the Clubhouse on a specific evening offering an alternative evening during that week if available”.  The bar would not be available for us to use later in the evening.  

 

Methodist Church Hall: The cost of this spacious hall would be £20 per night.  It would be Tuesday and Thursday nights.

Advantages – in the centre of Minehead with onroad parking in front of the building with a car park opposite both of which are currently free after 6.00p.m.  Large well-lit centrally heated hall with a well appointed kitchen and pleasant, clean toilets close by.  

Disadvantages – there are 2 dates that the hall would not be available – for the Music Festival and Polling Day (but we know those dates well in advance).  There are plenty of chairs but plastic bucket type, better with a cushion.  The Railway Men use the small meeting room on Tuesday nights so would need to put their things away at the end of the evening, passing round the back of the hall.

 

Minehead Rugby Club:  The cost of this would be £40 per night.  

Advantages – adequate room size.  There is an outside lift if people cannot use the steps.  There is a bar downstairs which we might be able to use if there was something else happening that night.

Disadvantages – not very well lit, one toilet upstairs alternatively have to go outside, down steps to use another.  Large car park but not in a very good state of repair.  Limited coffee facilities with polystyrene cups as no kitchen facilities.

 

In the opinion of the Committee, the best option is the Methodist Hall but we would like to have a vote from our Members on Monday and Thursday nights next week (don’t vote twice please!).   

 

We have given the Red Cross a month’s notice but it may be possible to move before then and we would recompense them accordingly.

 

We would need to buy tables which would be in the region of £50 each + p & p. 

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

AGM October 1st 2013

MINUTES OF MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB A.G.M.

 

Held Tuesday 1 October 2013 at 6.30 pm

At The Northfield Hotel

 

PRESENT:  President Chris Parkin, Treasurer Peter Jackson, Secretary Sally Stuttard, Committee Members Ann McCann, Davina Lord, Jan Chadwick, Malcolm Percival and 36 Club Members.

 

PRESIDENT’S REPORT:

First all of all Chris asked for a minute’s silence while we remembered those of our members who died last year - Alice Jackson and Ron Thorne.  

As Chris has just taken over as President he said how pleased he was to be elected and that he planned to run the club on a pleasant and friendly footing.  Unfortunately the Northfield have told us that they are planning changes and that we can no longer play there next year but Sally would give a report on a possible new venue.

 

 

APPROVAL OF LAST YEAR’S MINUTES & APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: 

In the Treasurer’s report “deficit” should be changed to “surplus” and were then approved.  This was proposed by David Doyle and seconded by Ann Watkins. 

Apologies For Absence were received from Claire Pearse, Richard Hills, Terry Stuttard, Rose Dascombe, Doreen Beswick, Marjorie Price, Sheila Coda, Tony Miles, Paul Rees and Neil Barrington.

 

TREASURER’S REPORT:

Peter presented his accounts and ran through the figures.  We have had a good financial year having started with £4,740 we ended up with £6,200.  The increase was in large part due to the increased numbers on Thursdays and Peter made special thanks to Doreen Beswick for all the help she has given him over this recent difficult time.  Arthur Norton  also thanked Chris who said it was very much a team effort particularly including David Doyle and Steve Beswick.  Peter thanked Chris for auditing the accounts and he pointed out he would no longer be able to do this as now President.  Jo Pateman volunteered her husband Geoff for the job.  The accounts were approved by Wendy Barker and seconded by David Doyle.  

 

SECRETARY’S REPORT:

Sally detailed the various places she and others had visited/contacted looking for new premises.  After 

pretty exhaustive searches she and Davina went to the Red Cross hut.  They would be very happy to have us but Tuesdays were not available.  After much discussion it was agreed that we should move our bridge and play on Monday and Thursday nights.  There is ample parking and they are happy for us to store our things there.  There are tables we can use – slightly larger than card tables but quite satisfactory. They have a fully equipped kitchen where we can make tea/coffee as required.  For both nights the rent they would like is £70 per week.  She agreed to write to their Booking Officer Norman Ell and ask that we start with a trial period of 3 months but hopefully it will prove a suitable new home for us.  We will start there on Thursday 2 January.

 

 

 

PRESENTATION OF PRIZES:

Club Pairs Championship – Chris and Paula Parkin with Runners up David Doyle and Arthur Norton.

Ladies’ Pairs – Sally Stuttard and Cathy Nicholls - Mens’ Pairs Malcolm Percival and Richard Watkins.

The Frank Taylor Trophy was won by Cathy Nicholls.

 

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Sally Milton proposed a vote of thanks to the retiring Committee Ann McCann and Chris Thomas and 

with no nominations Roy Anderson, Cathy Nicholls and Terry Stuttard have agreed to join the Committee.

With no other business the meeting closed at 7.00 pm.

 
A.G.M.

MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – MINUTES

THURSDAY 4 OCTOBER 2018

Present:  Chris Parkin – President;  Davina Lord – Treasurer;  Sally Stuttard – Secretary;

Committee Members – Steve & Doreen Beswick and 14 Club Members

Introduction & Report by the President:  Chris welcomed those present – unfortunately our AGM  clashed with an event at the Golf Club.  He reported numbers were down from last year but hopefully those he has been teaching will join.  He asked if there was any interest in playing in the afternoon but got no reaction.

The Christmas Dinner will be on Tuesday 18 December at the Northfield, at a cost of £15 per head and the menu is now up and would people please add their names and choices to the list.

Janet Handley and Linda and Derek Trump have done their time on the Committee and Rose Dascombe, Liz Roach and Terry Stuttard have said they will stand.  Their nominations were proposed by Davina and seconded by Doreen.

Approval of the Minutes of Last year’s AGM & Apologies for Absence:

These were duly approved – proposed by Tony Goldsmith and seconded by Paul Rees.

Apologies for Absence received by:  Janet Handley, Linda & Derek Trump, Malcolm Percival, Wendy Barker, Ann & Mike Currie, Marion Jehu, Nigel Cox and Roy Anderson.

We remembered those we had lost this year – Arthur Norton who did so much for the club and bridge, Ann Thorne and Tony Miles.

Hon Treasurer’s Report:

Davina presented the accounts.  Subs and table money down but we did make two charitable donations to the Scanner Appeal at Musgrove Park Hospital and to the Air Ambulance.  We also rounded up the contribution to the  Children in Need Sim Pairs. 

The accounts were approved by Ann Watkins and seconded by Corinne Rees.

Presentation of Awards:

Club Pairs Championship:  Tony Goldsmith & Liz Roach

Ladies Pairs:                         Wendy Barker & Jackie Moody

Mens Pairs:                           Chris Smith & David Drabble

Frank Taylor Trophy:            Malcolm Percival                     

Any Other Business:

Paul Rees asked about the club getting a dealing machine.  Jackie Moody had just had experience of using them at Somerset’s Congress and had found it very tricky to use.  It was not a popular idea even though you can apparently set the level of difficulty of the hands but would need someone to operate and store the boards.  When we have a Sim Pairs event there is not much take up of the booklets we get that include not only the hands but expert commentaries as well.

Chris thanked the Committee and the Directors and all those who help but asked that people arrive in good time as we can’t work out the movement until we know the full complement. 

Tony Goldsmith thanked the committee and directors on behalf of the Club.

Next year’s AGM – Tuesday 1 October 2019 at 6.00 pm.

Minutes of Committee Meeting 01.10.2013

 

 

Held Tuesday 1 October 2013 at 6.30 pm

At The Northfield Hotel

 

PRESENT:  President Chris Parkin, Treasurer Peter Jackson, Secretary Sally Stuttard, Committee Members Ann McCann, Davina Lord, Jan Chadwick, Malcolm Percival and 36 Club Members.

 

PRESIDENT’S REPORT:

First all of all Chris asked for a minute’s silence while we remembered those of our members who died last year - Alice Jackson and Ron Thorne.  

As Chris has just taken over as President he said how pleased he was to be elected and that he planned to run the club on a pleasant and friendly footing.  Unfortunately the Northfield have told us that they are planning changes and that we can no longer play there next year but Sally would give a report on a possible new venue.

 

 

APPROVAL OF LAST YEAR’S MINUTES & APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: 

In the Treasurer’s report “deficit” should be changed to “surplus” and were then approved.  This was proposed by David Doyle and seconded by Ann Watkins. 

Apologies For Absence were received from Claire Pearse, Richard Hills, Terry Stuttard, Rose Dascombe, Doreen Beswick, Marjorie Price, Sheila Coda, Tony Miles, Paul Rees and Neil Barrington.

 

TREASURER’S REPORT:

Peter presented his accounts and ran through the figures.  We have had a good financial year having started with £4,740 we ended up with £6,200.  The increase was in large part due to the increased numbers on Thursdays and Peter made special thanks to Doreen Beswick for all the help she has given him over this recent difficult time.  Arthur Norton  also thanked Chris who said it was very much a team effort particularly including David Doyle and Steve Beswick.  Peter thanked Chris for auditing the accounts and he pointed out he would no longer be able to do this as now President.  Jo Pateman volunteered her husband Geoff for the job.  The accounts were approved by Wendy Barker and seconded by David Doyle.  

 

SECRETARY’S REPORT:

Sally detailed the various places she and others had visited/contacted looking for new premises.  After 

pretty exhaustive searches she and Davina went to the Red Cross hut.  They would be very happy to have us but Tuesdays were not available.  After much discussion it was agreed that we should move our bridge and play on Monday and Thursday nights.  There is ample parking and they are happy for us to store our things there.  There are tables we can use – slightly larger than card tables but quite satisfactory. They have a fully equipped kitchen where we can make tea/coffee as required.  For both nights the rent they would like is £70 per week.  She agreed to write to their Booking Officer Norman Ell and ask that we start with a trial period of 3 months but hopefully it will prove a suitable new home for us.  We will start there on Thursday 2 January.

 

 

 

PRESENTATION OF PRIZES:

Club Pairs Championship – Chris and Paula Parkin with Runners up David Doyle and Arthur Norton.

Ladies’ Pairs – Sally Stuttard and Cathy Nicholls - Mens’ Pairs Malcolm Percival and Richard Watkins.

The Frank Taylor Trophy was won by Cathy Nicholls.

 

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Sally Milton proposed a vote of thanks to the retiring Committee Ann McCann and Chris Thomas and 

with no nominations Roy Anderson, Cathy Nicholls and Terry Stuttard have agreed to join the Committee.

With no other business the meeting closed at 7.00 pm.

Minutes of Committee Meeting

  MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB – COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

Held Tuesday 8th September 2015 at the Methodist Church, Minehead.

 

Present:      Chris Parkin – President

                    Peter Jackson – Treasurer

                    Sally Stuttard – Secretary

 

Committee Members - Roy Anderson, Jan Chadwick, Davina Lord & Terry Stuttard 

 

Apologies for absence received from Cathy Nicholls and Malcolm Percival

 

 

It was suggested that we start bridge on Tuesdays at 6.45pm during the winter months – the start of October to the end of March.  This was agreed on and will be proposed at the AGM for approval.

 

Jan, Davina and Malcolm have all done their time on the Committee so we need 3 more volunteers.

 

Davina has been doing such a good job with the website she was asked if she would be our Web Administrator.   She agreed to this.

 

Chris wanted to check that everybody was happy with our using the Golf Club for evenings when the Methodist Hall was not available.  We thought the majority of our members were happy with this arrangement.

 

Christmas Dinner – Chris will check the date of the Golf Club dinner so we do not clash with them.  He will also ask their terms for catering our Christmas dinner and Sally said she would ring the Northfield for theirs.

 

Lessons – as Chris is in the process of moving house he will not be giving lessons this year but may well do so in the new year.

 

Peter presented the accounts, showing a surplus on the year of £1,741.82 with a balance in hand of  £7,616.82. He reiterated his desire to give up being the Treasurer and Chris said he would enquire if anyone would be prepared to take over from him.

 

The AGM will be held here on Tuesday 6th October at 6.30 pm.

 

With no other business the meeting closed at 6.35pm.

 

Minutes of Committee Meeting 16.07.2013

MINUTES OF THE COMMITTEE MEETING OF MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB HELD AT THE NORTHFIELD HOTEL  

On TUESDAY 16 JULY 2013



PRESENT: Treasurer Peter Jackson:  Secretary Sally Stuttard.  

Committee Members:  Davina  Lord, Ann McCann, Jan Chadwick and Chris Parkin. 


MATTERS ARISING:

Following Alice’s death we needed to elect a new President.  Peter Jackson proposed Chris Parkin.  This was seconded by Davina Lord and unanimously approved by the Committee.  


As Bernard Smith and Chris Thomas have now left the area we are in need of more volunteers for Directing the proceedings on a Tuesday.  Chris Parkin proposed Davina Lord which was seconded by Jan Chadwick and unanimously approved by the Committee.  

Chris Thomas has also left a gap on the Committee but as the AGM is in October it was agreed to elect a new member then.



ANY OTHER BUSINESS:


Malcolm Percival had mentioned the possibility of updating the Bridgemates.  Peter

said the kitty was reasonably healthy but it would take out a large chunk of it. 

The cost of buying 15 Bridgemate II’s would be £2,400 for new and and reconditioned ones in the region of £1,200.  We will bring the matter up at the AGM

to hear the Members’ views.  


With no other business the meeting closed at 6.45 pm.

A.G.M.

MINUTES OF MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB A.G.M. HELD THURSDAY 2 OCTOBER 2014

 

AT 6pm AT THE METHODIST CHURCH HALL, THE AVENUE, MINEHEAD.

 

PRESENT:  President Chris Parkin, Treasurer Peter Jackson, Secretary Sally Stuttard, Committee Members Davina Lord, Roy Anderson & Terry Stuttard & 36 Club Members.

 

 

PRESIDENT’S REPORT:  

Chris thanked everyone for coming.  David Doyle is home from hospital and doing well.  He asked for last year’s Minutes to be approved – Sally Milton approved, seconded by Davina Lord.

 

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE:  

Received from Malcolm Percival, Doreen Adams, Liz Roach, Ann McCann, David Thrush, Jan Chadwick, Cathy Nicholls, Jean & Eric Jones, Maureen Pearse, Val Anderson, Jean Hughes and Sara Warren.

 

TREASURER’S REPORT:  

Peter presented his accounts showing a balance of £5,875 as against £6,191 last year.  There has been considerable outlay this year buying tables, bidding boxes and new Bridgemates but room hire costs have gone down and the lessons have generated some income.  Altogether we are in profit.  (The old Bridgemates have been given to Yeovil Bridge Club and we asked that they make a donation to Air Ambulance for them). Thanks to Geoff Pateman for auditing them and to Davina, Doreen and the others who have helped out when he has been away.

 

SECRETARY’S REPORT:  

Having spoken to the EBU there is no need for the Thursday sessions to be reported to them.  We would have to pay the EBU half the PtoP rate (approx. 17.5p per player) and the only advantage to members would be the EBU magazine which is on the internet and also most Tuesday players would be happy to pass theirs on if asked.

There is no change to the Committee.  Davina, Jan and Malcolm have one year more to serve.

The room voted overwhelmingly to have a coffee break with time for a chat and we should improve the quality of the biscuits.

Christmas – it was agreed that the last session would be Tuesday 23 December starting again on Tuesday 6 January 2015.

Christmas Dinner/Buffet before play – it was voted on by a large majority that we should have a Christmas Dinner and Sally agreed to look into possible venues for this and will report back.

 

PRESENTATION OF PRIZES:

Club Pairs Cup -  Cathy Nicholls & Sally Stuttard

Ladies Pairs – Sheila Coda & Sandra Love

Mens Pairs – Chris Parkin & Roy Anderson

Frank Taylor Trophy – Sally Stuttard

 

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:  

Chris thanked everybody who comes early to help set up the room and also tidy up at the end of the evening.  Paul Grierson thanked the committee for all their efforts.  With no other business the meeting closed at 6.25 pm.

Next year’s AGM will be held on Tuesday 6 October.

Minutes of Committee Meeting 29.10.2015.

Minehead Bridge Club Committee Meeting

Thursday 29 October 2015

 

Present:  Chris Parkin, President.

                Peter Jackson, Treasurer.

                   Sally Stuttard, Secretary.

 

Committee Members:  Linda & Derek Trump, Terry Stuttard and Roy Anderson

Apologies for absence from Cathy Nicholls and Janet Handley

 

 

Chris welcomed Linda and Derek as new members of the Committee.

 

 

The meeting was called as Peter wished to step down as treasurer. Davina Lord has offered to take over the position and this was unanimously Approved.

 

Chris thanked Peter on behalf of the committee and the club for all his work over the years as treasurer and also his commitment to the club helping out over and above the call of duty.

 

  We would like to give him something to commemorate his contribution to the Club and he has promised to give it some thought.

 

Peter said we have some spare money which is not getting any interest if we could think of anything we need.  Nobody had any ideas except maybe some card shufflers.

 

Chris felt it was unnecessary to continue with announcing one no trump as 12-14 as that is what everybody plays.  If anyone plays a different system then of course that should be announced.

 

With no other business the meeting was declared closed.

AGM Minehead 19.02.2013.

MINUTES OF THE COMMITTEE MEETING OF MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB HELD AT THE NORTHFIELD HOTEL  
On TUESDAY 19 February 2013

PRESENT: Treasurer Peter Jackson:  Secretary Sally Stuttard.  
Committee Members:  Davina  Lord, Ann McCann, Chris Thomas, Malcolm Percival and Chris Parkin.  Apologies for absence received from Alice Jackson and Jan Chadwick

MATTERS ARISING:

The Committee unanimously approved starting up a Website for the Club.  Davina volunteered to look after running the site.  Bridgewebs give you a 3 month free trial and if we continue with it after that the cost is in the region of £50 per annum.

The lessons that Chris Parkin, Terry and myself are running at Old Cleeve are well attended and Chris has incorporated many of the students into Thursday nights running a 20 board duplicate.  This seems to have been a great success and we have been getting many more tables than previously.  

Malcolm asked if there were any complaints about going from Rubber to Duplicate but Chris said there had only been positive feedback.  If anyone does want to play Rubber bridge that can, of course, happen alongside.  We were worried that with the price increase of the room hire we would have to move premises but if present levels persist that would no longer be the case.

Many thanks to Chris Thomas who is leaving the area and moving to Exmouth.
He has been a great help to the Club – teaching bridge, directing and has generally been a great asset - he will be greatly missed.





A.G.M. Minutes

MINUTES OF THE MINEHEAD BRIDGE CLUB  A.G.M.

Held Tuesday 6 October 2015

 

Present:  President Chris Parkin, Treasurer Peter Jackson, Secretary Sally Stuttard

Committee Members:  Davina Lord, Malcolm Percival and Roy Anderson and 29 Club Members.

 

PRESIDENT’S REPORT:

Chris thanked everyone for coming.  We then held a minute’s silence in remembrance of those members who have died over the last year.

We have had a lot of apologies for absence for which many thanks.

He thanked all the helpers who prepare the room before play, make up the boards and again those who help clear up at the end of the evening.

Attendance has been quite good over the year but we would like to encourage more Thursday players to come and try Tuesdays – there are one or two different faces but mainly the same as on Thursdays.

 

At the last Committee Meeting it was suggested we start at 6.45 pm either in the winter months or all year round.  The vote was carried overwhelmingly for the early start all year round.  If necessary we will review this after the spring.

 

We have two proposals for the Christmas Dinner – either the Northfield Hotel or the Golf Club.  The vote was in favour of the Northfield.  Peter reckoned we have enough in the kitty to cover the price difference so members would pay just £15 for the dinner.  Chris asked what kind of bridge would we all like to play then and the vote was for straight Chicago.

 

As Christmas Day falls on a Friday and New Years Day also a Friday it was decided to play on Tuesday 22 December and Tuesday 29 December but not on the Thursdays Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve.

 

Thanks to the retiring Committee Members Jan, Davina and Malcolm.  With no nominations,  Janet Handley and Linda and Derek Trump have agreed to stand.

 

Prizes were awarded to:  Club Pairs - Sandra Love & Ron Tapp:  Ladies Pairs - Jean Cunningham & Jean Jones, Mens Pairs - Terry Stuttard & Malcolm Percival and the Frank Taylor Trophy - Sally Stuttard.

 

TREASURER’S REPORT:

Peter presented his accounts showing a surplus of £1,700 and we have ended the year with a balance of £7,600.  Receipts are much the same but expenditure is down – cheaper room hire and no more expensive equipment this year.  Thank you to Geoff Pateman for auditing the accounts.  Peter reiterated he would be very glad to retire if a suitable volunteer could be found to take over from him as Treasurer.

 

ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Some members had asked about a Duplimate machine which gives a print out of all the hands.   The machine would cost in the region of £3000, someone would have to make up the boards, store them and with all the extra work involved it was decided not to pursue this.

Wendy asked that we give Jackie a vote of thanks for all she does with plenty of cheerfulness and the much improved quality of the biscuits!  This was unanimously applauded.

Jackie Moody brought up whether we should have random teams on the 5th Tuesdays rather than the present system. It was voted by 8 to 13 to carry on as we do at the moment.

Ann Watkins proposed a vote of thanks for Chris, Sally and Peter for all their hard work.

 

Next year’s AGM will be held at 6.00 pm on Thursday 6 October 2016.

 

With no other business the meeting closed at 6.55 pm.