We had a great session on Monday 14th March with Andrew Robson and look forward to welcoming him again next year

In a series of articles in The Times, Andrew described the problem with many bridge clubs. Some of the established players simply cannot help themselves!

'Why are fewer and fewer playing in many Duplicate Bridge Clubs – whilst the game is growing in popularity at a social level? Online bridge is undoubtedly taking people away, but the fact that friendly, welcoming Duplicate Clubs are all thriving, points to a different reason. I fear that a few regular duplicate players put newer players off by their rude, officious, critical even intimidating behaviour. The chasm of difference between the encouraging classroom is too much for many. They quickly back off and play with their friends. Lost to Duplicate Bridge. Forever.

Experienced duplicate players should be welcoming new players to the Club, not frightening them away. At my Club I operate a zero tolerance rule: no bad behaviour of any sort is allowed. Ever. You should greet new players with a cheery hello, smile a lot and thank them as you finish the round. I know that I’m largely preaching to the converted. But it only takes one bad experience to put a new player off for life.'

We believe that Andrew is right and we too are operating a zero tolerance rule - no bad behaviour is allowed.  Speak to one of us if you have a bad experience - please.