We are advised that the funeral will take place on Monday 25 April at 1330 hours at Guildford Crematorium. A wake will be held afterwards at Liphook Golf Club and the family have asked that as many of his former friends and acquaintances come along.

It is with great sadness we have to report the passing away of Pauline Ballard around midnight on 13th October 2021, after a period of illness.

Pauline had been a member of Maidstone Bridge Club for many years, she had served on the Committee for some time acting as the Club Membership contact with the EBU and also helped Jacqueline Day set up teaching sessions for new members. She was suffering ill health before the Covid Lockdown but had managed to play on-line in the afternoons.

Many of you will know that Marion and Fred have now moved away to Yorkshire to be nearer family to help with Marion's illness and Fred's own issues. A number of Club Members asked if we could arrange a suitable "Farewell Gift" but in view of the complexities of trying to collect money without Face To Face bridge the Committee decided to make a donation from Club Funds. Jenny, knowing how Marion loves flowers and in particular Orchids, chose one similar to that shown to be delivered to their new home. The delivery was gratefully received and now adorns a window sill in their new abode. Marion and Fred asked that we should make everyone aware of their appreciation and how we will all be missed. Once they have properly settled in Fred hopes to carry on playing on-line with us.

Marion and Fred have sent a big "thank you" to all club members

The AGM will be held on Wednesday 7 February 2024 starting at 6.30pm.  
An online link (Teams/Zoom) will be available for those not able to attend at the Club.

Play will continue after the AGM both F2F and online.

Papers for the AGM can be found in the Members' Area of this website

It is with regret that we announce the passing away of Joyce Cooper.

Joyce was a long standing member of the bridge club and played regularly on a Wednesday evening until late in 2018, when she was unable to play due to illness.   She passed away peacefully on 20th March.

Her funeral will be held at Vinters Park Crematorium on Wednesday 3rd April 2019 at 10.15 am, and afterwards at Rhianos, 33 Tonbridge Road.   All welcome.

It is Joyce's wish to have only garden flowers at her funeral as she was a keen gardener.   Any donations should be made to Heart of Kent Hospice.

We send our condolences to Joyce's family and close friends.

 

It is with great sadness we report the death of Marion (Farrell Davis).  She died last night (7 April 2023) peacefully at her home in Yorkshire.

Marion first started appearing at Maidstone Bridge Club in 2015 when she came to help Fred Davis run the Wednesday night sessions at the Hilton. It soon became apparent that she and Fred were "an item" and in due course they were married and had a wonderful honeymoon with a Pacific Cruise. They returned to continue to run the Wednesday night bridge together at the Maidstone Civil Service Club until it became obvious that all was not well. Fred had continuing health problems and then Marion, without warning, was taken by motor neurone disease. Although they struggled on they decided to move to Yorkshire to be near Fred's family who would be able to offer them support. Unfortunately, Fred died in June last year and Marion, who by now was wheelchair bound, has since been living with 24hr care until her death last night. 

We send our condolences to the family. The funeral will be held in Hull at 1330 on 12 May with a special arrangement in Dymchurch at a date to be determined where Marion and Fred's ashes will be buried alongside that of her daughter. The funeral will be available as a Webcast as follows - Funeral Marion username - dizi8815 password - 656974

It is with great sadness we have to report the passing of another member, Gus Goodall, after a short illness.

Gus played at Maidstone for many years where he partnered Geoff Horrocks. He also played regularly at the Trebor Sharps and Beverley Clubs. He was a keen golfer and played regularly at Bearsted.

The funeral is on 28 July at Vinters Park Crematorium at 1145.

It is with regret that we announce the passing away of
Lillian Simmons and Agnes Chapman (2019)

Both ladies were long standing and active members of Maidstone Bridge Club, playing regularly on a Wednesday evening.

We send our condolences to their families.
 

The funeral for Lillian will be held
at 2pm on Friday 1st March
at Langley Church

The funeral for Agnes will be held
at 12.30pm on Thursday 7th March
at Vinters Park Crematorium
and afterwards at St Nicholas Church Hall, Poplar Grove, Allington
All welcome
No flowers by request, with any donations going to RNLI

From the Bridge Club archives. The photograher is unknown.

Can you give names, place and date?

(Yes, we do know the answers)

It is with great sadness we have to report the death of Fred Davis. He died in his sleep last night (31st May/1st June)

Fred started his bridge in Maidstone some years ago, originally playing on Thursday nights but then moving to Wednesdays. The Club arranged for him to attend the Club Director course and he then worked with Geoff running the Wednesday night pairs but also helped at some KCBA events. He met Marion his wife some years ago and she was swept up into the bridge scene, helping Fred run Wednesdays and also learning to play herself. They married four years ago exactly - Fred dying on their Wedding Anniversary.

Fred struggled with his health for a number of years and after Marion contracted Motor Neurone they moved to Hull to be near Fred's daughter for added support. Fred had continuing blood issues, including frequent blood transfusions due to his Leukemia and he was taken into hospital again on the last Friday before he died. He was told his kidney was seriously damaged and they were unable to offer any additional care. He was visited by his two sons and daughter before his death.

The funeral will take place on Friday 1st July at 1330 hours at the Haltemprice Crematorium Willerby HU10 6NS. Family Flowers only. Donations to Macmillan Cancer Support. 
Picture updated from Order of Service

The Maidstone Civil Service Club has seen some extensive improvement works.   In addition to a complete refurbishment of the toilet facilities (Ladies Please Note!), including a new Disabled Toilet, decorations and lighting have been improved. The most obvious visible change is to the rear of the building where a new patio has been built with a new access ramp and a sheltered area over the rear entrance.

The general bridge playing conditions are now first class so why not come back and try Face To Face again on Wednesday nights. We start at 7pm and finish at 10pm. Coffee, Tea and biscuits and water are provided and alcoholic drinks can be purchased at the Bar. All are welcome. Please remember we now collect monies with contactless payments, not cash.

It is with sadness we have to report the death of Pauline Garrett following a long spell of illness.   Pauline was  a regular player on Wednesday nights and partnered Ann Williams. The Funeral is scheduled for 30 December 11.15am in St Nicholas Church , Poplar Grove, Allington.

For some years prior to covid Maidstone B C had sent a team of players to partake in a "Friendly" bridge competition held in Henin Beaumont in Northern France. There were some excellent prizes on offer and at some stage most players took home a prize. Unfortunately some of the key players, both French and English are no longer with us, but here are a few pictures of those times. Can you spot those still with us.

It is with great sadness that I have to report the death of one of Maidstone Bridge Club's longest serving Members.

David Beal passed away yesterday morning (25 December 2020) in Maidstone Hospital after complications arising from Covid 19 which he had unfortunately contracted a couple of weeks ago. 

David came to the Bridge Club in the mid 70’s and formed a long standing and successful partnership with Jim Manning. He played regularly on Thursdays but also travelled to the Medway Club on Tuesdays where he played with Freda Wilding. After Jim moved away he played more at Tunbridge Wells and had a number of regular partners including Angela Tompson whose book on teaching bridge he helped write. He also developed a successful partnership with John Murrell who he also played with at Maidstone. In more recent times after retiring he returned to Maidstone Bridge more regularly partnering Georgina 2 or 3 times a week and Barry Quinnell. 

David was an “Insurance Man” by trade working for Norwich Union in their Maidstone Branch in Earl Street. After a time he became rather disgruntled with the Company and his work and left to do other things. He started a new business installing kitchens and although this was successful at the time of the mid 90’s recession, work was hard to find. He eventually decided to go back to Insurance and with his colleague Adrian set up Beal Insurances in Snodland. The business flourished and they were able to sell up and retire in 2010.

David “did time” on the Maidstone Committee in his earlier years at the Club and he was always a friendly face to meet at the table  .He will be sadly missed.

Richard Sissons - Chairman

It is with regret that we learn of the passing away of Eric Brown, a former longstanding club member.

Eric played for many years mainly with the Wednesday group until ill health got the better of him.

He passed away on Monday 16th November 2020, having suffered from ill health for some time and had recently been living in a care home.  He was approaching his 90th year.

We send our condolences to his family.

Congratulations to Jean Letley and Barrington Beavis on winning the Championship Pairs. They were closely followed in second place by Dick Payne and Geoff Smith. A big thank you to everyone who turned up enabling us to run a full eight table competition. 

We must congratulate our Corbett Cup Team who despite stiff opposition  managed to come third overall on Sunday in the annual competition held at Tunbridge Wells. The team comprised of David Stretton (Captain), David Cock, Daran Steele, Chris Coleman, Paul Willis, Barry Beavis and Geoff Smith with David Beal. They played a long 60 board match to ensure the Club will continue to play in the top league of Kent bridge again in 2020. Well done team!!!

The Riccomini Individual Trophy 2018 was won by Margaret Harris and Richard Sissons with equal scores. The trophy will go to Richard who wins the split tie by having one more score over 50% than Margaret. 

Any club member wishing to learn the scoring program, please get in touch with Richard (Chair)

Update on club competitions and events:

Thursday Ladder Pairs - best 8 scores out of possible 12.  One substitute may be used but any results with regular partner will be used in preference to any results with substitute.

Wednesday Ladder Pairs - as Thursday, but this event will now be run as a handicap event using NGS gradings.  Results posted on this website will reflect the handicaps, but scores used by EBU for NGS ratings will not be affected.

Chairman's Bowl - an individual event open to all club members.  Contestants need to play with at least 7 different players throughout the year and the best results will be counted. Scores from any pairs event at each of the three club nights will count;   handicap scores will be discounted.

Mentor evenings - the first Wednesday of the month has been designated as a 'mentor session' and it is hoped that more experienced players will make themselves available to partner learners or regular players who wish to improve.   This session will not be used for NGS ratings.   Please put your availablity/check for available players on competitions menu.

Website partner finding service - now available. 
To request a partner - log in via the Member Area to request a partner.  Scroll down for more dates and select options for email/phone number.   Click 'submit'
To make a request to someone looking for a partner - on the Calendar tab, click on dates with Partner? and select person (ignore entry dates in brackets). Click on email and write your request, or phone person if number displayed.

Shadow tables - a new intiative recommended by the EBU.  Where marked on the calendar, shadow tables are available for beginners/improvers who wish to practise.  Boards played will be the same as the main room, but players will be at separate tables playing at their own speed, so hands and results can be reviewed at the table.  No identified number of boards need to be played.   Results can be compared to the main room when these are posted on the website.   Table money will be £2 per person. 
An ideal opportunity for players wishing to improve, or for beginners who want to practise safely and experience a club setting.   Players are requested to attend in pairs.  Please note there is NO teaching with this activity.
Places can be booked by sending an email, or phone Jacquie on 07986 989764.  This is to ensure enough people will be taking part (minimum of 4 needed)

Wednesday night Bridge Players bade farewell for a couple of weeks to Marion and Fred last Wednesday night on the eve of their wedding and honeymoon in Cuba. Chairman, Richard Sissons, in making the presentation wished Marion and Fred all the best and thanked them for the hard work they had put in to the Club. Pictured are Fred and Marion receiving a card and gift from Club members and after their wedding at Maidstone Registry Office. We wish them well!!

Longer standing members may remember playing with Ruth Bellord.   We have just been advised that she died peacefully on 24th June 2021.   Our condolences go to her family.

 It is with great sadness we have to report the death of Geoff Horrocks aged 87 on Friday 23 April 2021

Geoff with his wife Noel were longstanding Members of Maidstone Bridge Club having moved to the area and starting playing in the early 70's. They played in all the competitions including KCBA events and had success in teams with recently deceased David Beal and Jim Manning. He was a great golfer and with Noel spent time teaching Bridge to other Tudor Park Golf Club members. Not satisfied with once a week bridge he helped Noel establish the Trebor Sharp Club and also supported the new Beverley Club when that started. Although he had stopped playing regularly in recent years he would still turn out on a Thursday night when asked by Bridie. We are now aware of the funeral arrangements but due to Covid numbers are limited. If you would like to attend at Vinters Park please contact Jacquie who has the details.

During the winter months those players who would normally be expected to represent the Club A Team in the Corbett Cup, play in a small league competition sponsored by Dick Payne. The results of these Trials are show in the results tables on this site so that the players can view hand records. Any players/pairs who would like to be considered to play in the league starting in October 2018 for possible selection should contact Richard Sissons in the first instance. Matches normally take place on Wednesday afternoons but may be played at other times.

Congratulations to this year's Ladders Pairs winners. Wednesday night winners were Pat Jarrett and David Richards whilst Thursday's, after a very close finish, goes again to David Stretton and Richard Sissons. Trophies were awarded at the AGM on 3 January 2019.

Congratulations to Richard Sissons and his team of
Jenny Kendall, David Beal and Georgina Howe
on winning the Aveling Trophy in the above competition.
They will compete in the final (Brook Shield) against the other Kent Area League winners on Sunday 13 May.
We wish them well.     

Colin Crouch ( Mid Kent Area Secretary)

It is with great sadness we have to report the death of Jeremy Burns.

Jeremy was a longstanding member of the Maidstone Bridge Club and played regularly for many years with Doris Leonard and latterly with June Stacey. He was a past Committee Member and organiser of the Medway Congress. Deteriorating eyesight had increasingly restricted his ability to play the game and after the death of June he never returned to the bridge table although he continued to keep in touch. He also played regularly over the years at the Beverley Club.

His funeral was held on Wednesday 14 June at Vinters Park Crematorium.

Maidstone Club players Jenny Kendall, Jean Letley and Chairman Richard Sissons have topped the table in this weeks Monday afternoon duplicate at the Guardiana Bridge Club in Portugal. Jean, playing with her daughter Jo, came equal first with Jenny and Richard and both pairs came away with bottles of wine as prizes. The Club play at the magnificent Quinta do Vale Golf Resort in the eastern Algarve which overlooks the Spanish border and are always looking for new players. Visitors are made very welcome and non bridge players can always play a round of golf on the Seve Ballesteros designed course. Both Jo and Jean have their own properties nearby available to rent throughout the year so get in touch if you want to put a party together.

DAVID STRETTON      

BARRY QUINNELL & ROB CARMEN                                   

                            CHENG & ELIZABETH

LIZZIE & SALLY

MICK & JEAN EVEREST

       DAVID, MARK (Barretts JLC) & ROY

It is with great sadness we report the death of Miriam Webster after a short battle with cancer. Our sympathies go to her family and close friends. Miriam had been coming to Maidstone Bridge Club quite frequently in recent years with her regular partner Brian Adams but she had also played at Rainham and other local Clubs.

The funeral was held on 12 April at the Medway Crematorium and was attended by many bridge players who paid their last respects. She will be greatly missed. 

Congratulations go to Elizabeth Laurent and Christina Davies who are currently lying first overall in the Country in the Stratified Pairs Competition held on Wednesday 11 March. Their score is 69.70% the highest out of all 315 pairs competing in 17 Clubs across the country. A suitable prize should find its way to them in due course. Well played!!!

At Friday nights AGM of the Beverley Bridge Club held on 25 April the membership agreed with the Committee's recommendation that play on Friday nights should cease with immediate effect. Declining numbers over the past few years has meant the Club has struggled to pay its way and with only two or three tables it was not felt sensible carrying on any more. Molly Cooke, Club Chairman, outlined plans for disposal of the Clubs assets and these proposals were accepted by the Membership.

Richard Sissons, Chairman of the Maidstone Bridge Club said it was a sad day when a Club that had been in existence for more than 30 years had to close its doors but the Maidstone Club which plays on Tuesday , Wednesday and Thursday nights would warmly welcome any of the displaced players . He went on to say it was an unfortunate reflection of the ageing membership of the clubs in the Maidstone area and he hoped that some younger members would come forward to give new blood to the game in the area.  

It was disappointing to see that due to a number of members being away on holiday there were insufficient pairs to play bridge on both Tuesday and Thursday nights 13 & 15 May. It is to be hoped this was only a temporary anomaly and numbers will return next week.

The death of John Cullingworth from a heart attack at his island home in Tobago has been received with great sadnesss. John was cremated in Port of Spain in Trinidad at a ceremony attended by his brother and wife's family.

Many people have been in touch to say how much John meant to them and this from David Kendrick, a long time friend and bridge partner, sums up all our feelings:

John Cullingworth—a personal appreciation.

“When I first met John Cullingworth at Maidstone Bridge Club in the mid 1960’s, he already had a place at Exmouth Teacher’s Training College. Back then, John had an easy-going boyish enthusiasm that was little different from how he seemed on his recent trip home from Tobago this Summer of 2013. I liked his intensity of approach: if ever he became involved in any project---which occurred frequently---he always gave it 100%. He was engaging rather than relaxing company, and though often socially clumsy, everything he did was done quite without rancour.

Bridge was very important to him even in those early days. We were a regular partnership in the late 60s and early 70s and I’ve played with him from time-to-time ever since. Although he played many sports, none was ever more than a healthy diversion from bridge, his main area of expertise. I value a partner to whom the game matters, and Cullingworth certainly qualified on that score: nothing mattered more to him. Some play bridge because it satisfies their competitive urges. Others play for social reasons. JC seemed to play for the elegance of the game. Phone calls from him across the Atlantic would start ‘Kenders, I’ve an interesting little handy-dandy for you. You hold....’ I would be told what I should have bid, and would then be told to play a contract. There would always be little riders; he didn’t want me to miss anything. My replies would usually be along the lines, ‘intuitively, I would simply do xyz’. He loved it when he could respond, which he often could, ‘Good, very good Kenders. But (in gleeful tones) not best. That is an 78% line. I’ve got one which is 84%. You’d better think about it, and send me an email with your improvement.’ And all I’d done was to answer the phone.....

John’s guileless enthusiasms always seemed timeless. But already, his sad and untimely death makes that seem decidedly dated. He was a gentle, slightly eccentric man, who now appears to belong to an earlier and more innocent era. All his friends (he had no enemies) will miss him, and our lives will be more one-paced from now on.

John’s brother Bert (as he always referred to his sibling, Richard)  and Marina have our deep sympathy, and will need our support. We are very aware of their loss.”

It is with great sadness we record the death of Fred Heine, aged 78, on 28 May 2013 after a long battle with cancer.

Fred had started playing bridge in the Maidstone area in 1976 and attended all the local clubs frequently. He was a keen golfer with, at one stage, a single figure handicap and a very active Member of the West Malling Masonic Lodge. He will be greatly missed by all his friends and associates.

The funeral took place at Vinters Park Crematorium on Thursday 6 June 2013 at 1445 and was attended by many more people than could be accommodated inside the building.The Humanist ceremony was broadcast outside and included a short piece by Richard Sissons on Fred's bridge life. Those who attended were invited afterwards to The Tudor Park Hotel for refreshments. Charitable donations are welcome to either Heart of Kent Hospice or Kent Cancer Trust.

It is with great sadness we report the death of Alan Buxton after a short illness. Alan was a keen golfer who played bridge from time to time. At some stage he played at all the local Clubs but is probably best remembered at Penenden Heath and Bearsted Clubs. His funeral is at Vinters Park on Wednesday 31 October.

At the last Teams night the Chairman drew attention to the very poor table numbers on Thursday nights recently and indicated the Committee were concerned that play could not continue if things did not improve. All members were encouraged to make every effort to attend in future and it was pointed out the more tables there were the more enjoyable the game was for all. Despite holidays and the recent loss of two regular players numbers since the begining of July have improved and it is to be hoped that all members will continue to make every effort to attend. New members are of course welcome and the Committee would be pleased to see more Wednesday night players come along.

The message is simple. Use your Club or lose it!!! 

It is with deep regret we have to report the death of Eve Thrush on Saturday 26 November 2011. Eve was a well known and liked player who played regularly in her native Medway Towns. She also frequented the Maidstone area Club's and played regularly in Kent Events partnering for many years Doris Leonard. She attended John Cullingworth's Cornwall matches with a mix of partners but latterly had been playing her regular bridge with John Warnett. Despite recent poor health she was always willing and able to help at Club level and often scored and directed at Maidstone. The Maidstone Club stood for a moments silence before the Teams event on 1 December started to enable many of Eve's friends who were playing that night to pay their respects. She is pictured whilst attending the April 2010 French Bridge Competition in Henin Beaumont.

The Funeral was held on Thursday 8 December at Blue Bell Hill Crematorium and apart from family members a large number of bridge playing colleagues attended including Kent President Geoff Smith and Committee Member Malcolm Lewis. The service was an unusual non denominational event which was a celebration of Eve's life. A copy of the service sheet which included some nice pictures can be seen by clicking on "Eve Thrush" in the main Menu.  (right click story page to rotate the images)

There was again a noticeable lack of support from Maidstone players for this years Kent Congress held over the weekend of 29/30 October 2011 at the Tunbridge Wells Club.

Molly Cooke and John Walker were the leading area players in Saturdays Swiss Pairs competition finishing 25th out of 48.

In Sundays Green Pointed Swiss Teams Richard Sissons and Jenny Kendall teamed up with ex Kent and local players Brian and Valerie Barrett finishing in a creditable 13th place out 48 teams.

Some local players have complained that they were again unable to enter the Swiss Teams as it was fully booked up but perhaps the moral is "get your entry in sooner"!

One of the more extraordinary hands from the teams was this one when sitting East you pick up AJ10 to six spades, A10 to six hearts and a singleton 5 of diamonds. Whilst considering your options your partner produces the STOP card and....................wait for it ..................opens 3 Clubs.

Most players found the correct bid of pass although some more adventurous souls did bid to 4 Heart with mixed success partner holding a singleton spade and doubleton Queen of hearts.

Another hand of note was the deal illustrated. Do you play really weak two's?   

See if you can spot some of the players pictured in the Kitchen/Living area. 

Thanks to Jean Letley local bridge players enjoyed an afternoon of Bridge, Food and Drink on Sunday 24 July at her house of "Grand Designs Fame". Players formed into four teams for 24 boards of  bridge many glasses of wine and plates of food. Thanks go to Jean for organising the weather and providing food and drink, Molly and John for cooking and Richard for organising the Bridge. Additional thanks also to David Beal for stepping in at the last moment when one player could not make it. Players look forward to the next event! Will she move before then we ask?   

Congratulations to Molly Cooke and Colin Mahrer on winning the Club Mixed Pairs Championship. Second equal were Christina and David Davies, winners of the Flitch Trophy for the highest placed married couple, and Georgina Howe and David Beal. Trophies will be presented in due course.

Winners of this years Championship Pairs played on Thursday 28 June were David Stretton and Dick Payne with a very impressive score of 71%. Second were Jacquie Day and Barry Quinnell.

It is with great sadness we have to report the death of Esther Taylor at her home on Christmas Day. Esther was a long standing member of the Maidstone Club but had been forced to restrict her activities due to her disabilities. She still played regularly at Downswood on Tuesdays. We extend our condolences to her family.

The Funeral will be held on Friday 13 January at 1.30pm at the Chatham Cemetery Jewish Section, Kitchener Avenue ME4 5XP. There will be a wake at the Hengist Restaurant Aylesford afterwards. Further details available from John Walker.

The AGM was on held Wednesday 6 January 2016 at the Hilton Hotel. The Treasurer presented the Annual Accounts which were approved and no increase in the Annual Subscription and table money was agreed.The Chairman reported on events during the year, thanked the various helpers and awarded trophies to competition winners. The Chairman & Committee were re-elected and Ian Bumstead joined the Committee. 

​Congratulations go to Elizabeth Laurent and Khee Cheng Wong winners of this years Club Mixed Pairs Championship. Winners of the married couples trophy were Gillian and Roger Harman. Trophies (if available) will be presented at the AGM in January.

Jean and Mick Everest winners of the Wednesday night Ladder Pairs Competition in 2014 were awarded with their trophy (pictured before engraving) at a short ceremony prior to play on 6 May. The trophy was presented by Mark Nicholas of the Barretts Group (Jaguar/Land Rover) who kindly sponsored the Trophy.

Congratulations to the winners of the Club Ladder Pairs Competitions.

WEDNESDAY - Jean and Mick Everest with runners up Ian Bumpsted and Mark Nicholas

THURSDAY - David Stretton and Richard Sissons with runners up Ian Butler and John Walker

Congratulations to Dick Payne, David Stretton, Richard Sissons, Clive Cubbitt and others (including Peter Law and Terry Bird) who have again won the Annual Teams Competition. Everhing hinged on the very last session played on Thursday 4 December and it was a close run thing, Dick's team winning by a slender single imp margin. A number of Teams were waiting in the wings but 2nd and third slots went to teams Captained by David Beal and Molly Cooke.  

Annual General Meeting 2014

The AGM was held before play on Wednesday 15 January with 60 plus members in attendance on the night. The main items discussed and agreed are listed below :-

1/. The Chairman and Committee were re-elected for a further year.

2/. Subscriptions to remain unchanged at £12. Table Money will stay at £3 but will be reviewed later in the year if necessary.

3/. A Club member has very kindly agreed to sponsor a new Ladder Pairs competition to be introduced on the 4th Wednesday in every month (except December - see calendar). Members who play at least 7 times with the same partner on that Wednesday during the year will qualify.There will also be a subsidiary prize, probably for the best improving pair each year, but details are to be finalised.

4/. A quarterly Teams Competition will be held on the 3rd Wednesday in February, May, and August and the 2nd in November. A suitable trophy for this event is being researched.    

5/. The meeting closed at 1935 hours and was followed by a fifteen table bridge competition.

The Maidstone Annual General Meeting was held on Wednesday 9 January 2013 . Richard Sissons, Georgina Howe, David Beal, John Walker and Jenny Kendall were reelected with Pat Jarrett joining to learn the necessary skills to be Secretary.

The evening concluded with a Teams of four competition the winning team comprising Roy Linn, David Davies, Janet Sears ad Chris Davies.

A regular Wednesday night teams event is now planned. 

It is with great sadness that we report the death of June Stacey on Wednesday 6 June after a short battle with cancer.

June was taught to play bridge by Jeremy Burns, with whom she developed a long and close relationship. She has played regularly at the Maidstone and Beverley Clubs and also played with Jeremy in Congresses. Her visits to France with Jeremy as part of the Maidstone contingent will always be fondly remembered.  

The funeral was held at Vinters Park Crematorium on Friday 15 June at 1145. Many of her bridge playing friends attended.

Pictured with Eddie are Paul, Roselyne and Philip the new President of Henin Beaumont Bridge Club.

Only 3 pairs went to France this year for the annual competition in Henin Beaumont. None did particularly well but Eddie and Irvine Caplan were the highest placed. The evening buffet was again very friendly and the new President of Henin Beaumont Club ensured glasses did not go empty as he has a very large wine cellar. Those who went can't wait to return next year to sample more of his excellent wines. The hand below was the talk of the evening.

Maidstone Competition Winners for 2010 are as follows -

Ladder Pairs - Richard Sissons & David Stretton

Chairmans Bowl - Molly Cooke

Monthly Teams - Dick Payne, Clive Cubitt, David Stretton, Richard Sissons

Page Cup & Mixed Pairs - Len & Margaret Harris

Leeson Trophy - John Walker & Molly Cook

BEARSTED BRIDGE CLUB NEEDS YOU!

Bearsted is seeing only 3 to 4 tables each week and with holidays and personal issues some of the regular players have been missing over the last few weeks. Barry Quinnell is still recovering from his knee operation but is back in the fold. Visitors very welcome!

Don't forget hot and cold snacks are available and men can purchase drinks from the Bar. Coffee is also served. 

Winner of the 2014 Riccomini Trophy Individual Competition was Rob Carman with runner up Ian Butler. 29 players competed in this annual Competition for Maidstone Bridge Club members which was held for the first time at Bearsted Golf Club. Thanks to John Walker for making the necessary arrangements.

22 Pairs turned out to play in the Maidstone Mixed Pairs Championship won by Jacquline Day and Colin Mahrer with Jenny Kendall and Richard Sissons runners up. The highest placed married couple who came a very creditable 4th were Mick and Jean Everest with Anne and Simon Leonard close behind 6th. Moselle Ambrose and David Richards were in 5th place.  

Prizes and Trophies will be presented at the AGM to be held early in the new year.

A BIG THANKS TO ALL PLAYERS FROM BEARSTED AND MAIDSTONE BRIDGE CLUBS WHO HELPED RAISE £75 FOR THE UNICEF CHARITY AT THE RECENT TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY NIGHT SIMULTANEOUS PAIRS SESSIONS.

IN PARTICULAR CONGRATULATIONS MUST GO TO JOYCE COOPER AND DALLIE BROWN WHO WERE 4TH OVERALL ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT.

THE NEXT SCHEDULED CHARITY SIMS EVENT WILL BE CHILDREN IN NEED IN NOVEMBER.

Whilst the least said about the bridge in France is probably best the hand illustrated caused considerable debate amongst the English. Jenny & Richard and Eddie and Irvine were playing East West. Jeremy and June North South.

Against Jeremy and June East West played a fairly common 3NT and made 11 or 12 tricks. Eddie and Irvine explored options and ended in 5H which produced 12 tricks and much discussion as to why they could not bid the 6H.

Richard and Jenny were playing against Roselyn and her partner. Having just had a poor set of boards, Jenny opened a heart and to her horror after the bidding sequence shown then found herself in 7NT doubled by Roselyn! The spade lead was won in dummy but despite the Clubs splitting only 12 tricks were made.

Discussion and closer inspection later over the usual refreshments started to throw some further light on the hand. In fact as Eddie points out 13 tricks cannot be stopped as it is an automatic squeeze on South. The only lead to beat the contract is the singleton K of hearts! Roselyn could not be persuaded that the double was ill advised and despite lengthy explanations she would not accept Eddie's detailed replay of the cards. Bad luck Jenny but what a shame. Something at least  to remember from the event and at least our hosts did not go away unhappy.  

EARLIER FINISHES AT MAIDSTONE

FOLLOWING THE DISCUSSION AT THE AGM WHERE IT WAS AGREED PLAY SHOULD NOT FINISH LATER THAN 2245 HRS, TO DATE PLAY HAS BEEN FINISHING AT OR JUST AFTER 2230 DUE TO PROMPT STARTING AT 1930 AND IT IS HOPED THIS WILL CONTINUE. SO PLEASE DON'T ARRIVE LATE OR YOU MAY NOT GET A GAME!

SO FAR IT HAS NOT PROVED NECESSARY FOR OUTSTANDING BOARDS NOT TO BE PLAYED. THE DIRECTOR HAS ALSO MANAGED TO PLAY THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF BOARDS AVAILABLE WITHOUT REMOVING ANY IN THE LAST ROUND. MEMBERS COOPERATION IN ENSURING THEY PLAY AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE HAS UNDOUBTEDLY HELPED.

Thanks to all loyal Maidstone Members (and some regular visitors !) for supporting the Club during the first few months of the year but please don't desert us now just because the sun is shining.  Please keep coming we need your support all through the year. We have recently seen only 3 or 4 tables and the Club struggles to function at this level of support. 

Holiday commitments will be taking players away over the next few weeks so the need for everyone to make an effort to attend is even more important.

No partner? Don't forget John Walker's "Find a Partner Service". John says not enough people still seem aware of his offer to team people up so please make an effort to come and ring John if you are happy to play but don't have a partner.

Congratulations go to team Maidstone B for winning the KCBA area league for 2014/5. The team comprised Richard Sissons, Jenny Kendall, David Beal and Georgina Howe with a reserve pair of Barry Beavis and Jean Letley. Second placed were Maidstone A and third Weald of Kent. The Winners go on to play in the Brook Shield Final in June.

The Web Site player database is constantly updated through the Scorebridge Scoring system which makes use of the EBU database to check certain details. From time to time this information is also manually checked and updated. This information can ONLY  be viewed by members who apply for the access password.

Because of the automated nature of the Scoring System both the Maidstone and Bearsted Committee's have adopted an "opt out" policy for Members and Visitors in accordance with a notice displayed in the Club. (This is also available to view on the Web Site). Payment of the Annual Subscription (or appropriate Visitor Fee) indicates acceptance that certain information will be held by the Club and displayed securely on the Web Site. If you do not wish your Email address or EBU number to be displayed to Members you must apply to The Web Administrator for the information to be deleted.

Despite the passing during the year of Jeffery Martin, Dick Ballinger, Mary Smith, Miriam Webster & Simon Leonard, we are pleased to see Christina Ballinger, Jane Anderson and Brian Adams have all returned to the Club to continue playing.

We wish them continued success with their new found partners. 

​WOULD MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE THAT STARTING TUESDAY 3 NOVEMBER 2015 BEARSTED BRIDGE CLUB WILL START PLAY AT 1900 HOURS (7 o'clock pm). PLAYERS ARE ASKED TO BE READY TO START PLAY PROMPTLY. THIS CHANGE IS BEING MADE IN AN EFFORT TO AVOID LATE FINISHES. IF FOR ANY REASON YOU ARE LIKELY TO BE LATE PLEASE NOTIFY JOHN WALKER SO ARRANGEMENTS CAN BE MADE TO ACCOMMODATE YOU.

WOULD PLAYERS PLEASE NOTE THERE WILL BE NO BRIDGE NEXT TUESDAY 15 AUGUST AS A NUMBER OF REGULAR PLAYERS WILL BE MISSING. NORMAL PLAY AGAIN FROM 22 AUGUST.

DON'T FORGET IF YOU ARE COMING TO THE PARTY THE START TIME IS 1800hours (6PM)

BUFFET AND A DRINK FROM THE BAR. THERE WILL BE NO TABLE MONEY THAT NIGHT.

Tuesday 26 & Wednesday 27 December and Tuesday 2 January 2018 - NO BRIDGE

Thursday 28 December - CHRISTMAS PARTY (at Civil Service Club)

Wednesday 17 January 2018 - AGM & Bridge

DON'T FORGET THIS COMING WEDNESDAY 22 MARCH PLAY WILL BE AT BEARSTED GOLF CLUB. USUAL START TIME 7.15pm.

(FUNERAL DETAILS SEE ABOVE)

It is with great sadness that I write about my friend Malcolm Hawkes.

Despite having different partners from time to time, we had played as a partnership for over 40 years. I have had only three long term bridge partners in that time, and the fact that ne was my first bridge partner and that I played with Malcolm just one week before he died is a testament to the enjoyment I had from our bridge partnership throughout that period. We always enjoyed playing together particularly when we were defending.

We had played together in County and National events including the National pairs, as well as knockout events including the Gold Cup, and Crockfords Cup. We played together at the former Beverley Bridge Club as well as Medway Towns Bridge Club where many trophies bear his name, and of course Maidstone Bridge Club.  For me, he was always my first choice of a substitute if another partner was indisposed.   

When a few Maidstone Club members asked if I would help them improve their game, I sometimes needed a little extra help with the 3-6 people turning up. Malcolm readily came along, joined the club, and it was not long before Pauline and other friends joined and we soon had seven tables. Malcolm’s willingness to help and cover for me in the earlier days undoubtedly lead to the success of that venture, and the social bridge that evolved from those friendships.   

On the closure of the club, Malcolm took the opportunity to take a break, but avidly followed the results of those who now play on a Wednesday night at Maidstone Bridge Club on the website.

The thought of not playing with him again is very hard to bear.

Geoff Smith

It is with great sadness we report the death on Thursday 10 July of Malcolm Mitchell after an extended period of illness

Malcolm did much to extend the playing of bridge in the Maidstone area particularly with his development of successful afternoon clubs and also evening clubs where he thought greater emphasis on beginners needed to be made. Although criticised by the "bridge establishment" for competing against existing clubs and his failure to promote KCBA and EBU events he was well respected and indeed he played in many county and national competitions in his earlier years.

The well attended funeral was held at Vinters Park Crematorium on Tuesday 19 August. 

This is the Kent Premier Pairs Competition and winners of the Kent final, which will be held on 16 March at a location to be determined, leads to the National Final in Bromsgrove in June 2019. The final heat takes place on Tuesday 11 December at 1900 at Bearsted. Players must score 50% or better to proceed to the regional heat to be held at the Maidstone Civil Service Club on Tuesday 19 February 2019.

Congratulations to the following pairs who have won this years (2017) Ladder Pairs trophies :-

Wednesday Pairs

Barretts JLR Trophy - Anne Mckean and Christina Davies

Cullingworth Trophy (most improved pair) - Mary Wiles and Geoff Heard

Thursday Pairs

Molly Cooke and Georgina Howe

Members may recall that at the end of the "SIM PAIRS YEAR" all Club Heat Winners and Clubs are entered into prize draws for additional prizes which are drawn at the EBU AGM held in November.

It is with great pleasure that we can announce that Maidstone Bridge Club has again been successful on two counts in these prize draws. Firstly, the Club itself has won a runners up prize of £100 for staging the events throughout the year, and also David Stretton and Chris Coleman have won a £100 pairs prize for winning the Thursday night Summer SIMS Event. 

Congratulations to everyone who took part but remember you can't win a prize unless you participate. Details of the first SIM Pairs events next year are shown in the adjacent column.   

We also give our condolences to the families of other members and former members we have lost recently:

Steve Wileman after a long illness;

Wednesday players Dick Ballinger, Mary Smith and Jeffery Martin;

Miriam Webster who played on Wednesdays and Thursdays;  her family have asked that members are thanked for the collection in her name, which exceeded £700.

We recently learned of the death of a bridge player in Cornwall who had close connections with the Maidstone Club. Dave Wilman lived in Harrietsham for many years and worked in London commuting by train and joining a regular bridge playing school "on board". In due course he graduated to the Maidstone Bridge Club and struck up a partnership with Brook Spooner Lillingstone which lasted on and off for a number of years. Dave eventually semi retired to the village of Gorran Haven in Cornwall whilst Brook gave bridge lessons at Bearsted Club until his untimely death from cancer a few years ago. Dave continued to play bridge in Cornwall mainly at the Truro Club but kept in touch with his friends in Kent and in particular John Cullingworth. John with Dave's help organised a series of teams of eight matches against Clubs in Cornwall and Dave, apart from arranging the accommodation, also hosted a bridge match in his house which had magnificent views looking out over the Atlantic coast. For those who knew Dave well he will always be remembered for his stories of bridge hands on the train and of course "Henry's Ace" ♦ .

Good news at last. Eddie has been moved to Pembury Hospital Ward 30 and is making excellent progress. Although he cannot remember the accident he seems to have regained all his other faculties and is keen to get back to the bridge table.

The Club has received the following invitation. If you are interested details of how to enter are given.

Bridge Club Malouin (BCM) is pleased to invite you to participate in its 2nd International Bridge Festival on September 2 and 3 in Saint-Malo, France.

Saturday Sept 2, 14h00: Ladies/Mixed Pair Tournament, to be followed around 18h00 by a prize ceremony and a cocktail.

Sunday Sept 3, 14h00: Open Pair Tournament, to be followed around 18h00 by a prize ceremony and the final cocktail.

Total prize value over 10.000 Euros will be distributed to winners and all participants, including 600 to the winning pairs and special prizes to international players.

To facilitate your trip, Bridge Club Malouin has agreements with Brittany Ferries and Condor Ferries whereby special packages are offered to bridge players coming from the UK to the Saint-Malo bridge Festival.

You will find all information and a registration template on our web site www.bridgeclubstmalo.fr or feel free to contact us at  contact@bridgeclubstmalo.fr

Hoping to see you in Saint-Malo early September,

Best regards

Gérard COLLIN - Bridge Club Malouin

PLEASE NOTE THE CALENDAR IS NOW UPDATED FOR THE YEAR.

PLEASE ADVISE WEB MASTER OF ANY ERRORS OR OMISSIONS. 

For some years now John Walker has been helping his Civil Engineering colleagues in London arrange an annual Teams Bridge Competition for the Brunel Trophy. The event takes place each October at the impressive Institute of Civil Engineers Building in Great George Street, Westminster London and John, who "borrows" tables and cloths from local Clubs, loads his car and arrives early in the morning to help the Director set up. Play commences at 11am and continues after lunch 55 boards being played in total, duplimated of course, by John. Afterwards a dinner is held in a restaurant in nearby Covent Garden. Pictured is John and partner Alex Gibb at this years dinner, their team mates were Richard Sissons and Jenny Kendall and in a strong field the team came a respectable 6th.   

Richard Sissons won Bearsted's annual Brook Trophy Competition with Jenny Kendall a close runner up. The Trophy is played for annually in memory of Brook Lillingstone who did much to encourage new players in the area. Jenny in particular was pleased with her performance saying "I still look forward to the day when I get my name on the trophy"!

There was a scoring issue which did not come to light until the final round which has necessitated the scores for Boards 13-15 and 22-24 being swopped. Those players who played the board twice have received an average whilst those who did play correctly will find their scores entered on the opposite board. Where appropriate an adjustment for vulnerability has been made to maintain the correct score. 

Maidstone Wednesday Club member Moselle Ambrose celebrated her 90th birthday in fine style with her usual game of bridge on Wednesday night with regular partner David Richards. She had lunched with her daughter but was still very keen to play bridge that evening.

Pictured, John Rice presents Moselle with a large boquet from Club Members in honour of the occasion.

So that's what he's been up to since he left !!!!!!!!

It is with great sadness we have to report the death of Ruth Moore. Ruth was a long standing and supportive member of the Beverley Club but had been ill for many years and did not recover from a recent illness. We extend our condolences to her family.

The funeral took place at Vinters Park Crematorium Maidstone on 12 December.

Pictured is Barry Quinnell Chairman of Bearsted Bridge Club presenting the Brook Trophy for this years Individual Competition played on 3rd December. Jane beat 23 other players for the title including Eugene Hood, Brian Barrett and David Stretton who were all equal 2nd.

Following the closure of the Beverley Club earlier this year the remaining club funds were distributed to four charities each of which received £565. They were the Air Ambulance, MacMillan Nurses, Demelza House and The Heart of Kent Hospice.

The Bearsted Club now operates as an extension of the Maidstone Club on Tuesday night. Provided you have paid your £12  Maidstone Bridge Club subscription you will be eligible for all EBU benefits including Master Points. Table money will increase by 50p for any non members / visitors to cover P2P payments. For adminstrative purposes there will be no change in the day to day management of the Bearsted Club.

The Mid Kent Area League for Teams of four has now concluded with Jacquie Days team winners. Results are available on the EBU Web Site.

Follow this link http://www.ebu.co.uk/leagues/?id=KEN-000003-01 

It is with deep regret we have to report the death of Ron Jolliffe at 72 years. Ron had suffered a major heart attack earlier in the year and had gone in to hospital for a bypass operation. Unfortunately he did not fully recover from surgery and died on 5 July.

The funeral was held on Monday 23 July and was attended by many of his friends and family including bridge and bowls players.

Winners of the John Cullingworth Trophy for the most improved pair in 2016 were Rosemary and David Bryden. They were presented with their trophy on a recent Wednesday night by Club Chairman Richard Sissons.

Maidstone's Wednesday night Bridge Club has said farewell to its creator and mentor Geoff Smith in a couple of ceremonies recently. Firstly, as pictured, members enjoyed with Geoff a slice of cake specially prepared for him by Jean Archer and presented by Colin Bennett. A week later Chairman Richard Sissons handed Geoff a card and John Lewis tokens collected and signed by the membership. Those present then enjoyed a farewell drink courtesy of the Club as a thank you for all Geoffs hard work over the years.

Geoff has moved to Cornwall where he has had a "weekend retreat" for many years and no doubt he will be persuing his diving activities with renewed vigor. In his farewell response he did say he hoped to return to Maidstone during the course of next year as his family are still resident in the area and we look forward to seeing him from time to time.

And this was not the only recent celebration! An anonymous person very kindly left three bags of choclates at the Hilton Reception for members to enjoy during bridge this week(19 October). Thank you whoever you are, they were greatly enjoyed!

The AGM  for 2015 was held before bridge on Wednesday 7 January 2015 with over 50 members present. Richard Sissons, Chairman, summed up the years events and thanked a number of people including Committee Members for their help during the year. He thanked all the Club members for their generosity in raising over £500 for Children In Need in 2104. Competition Winners were acknowledged and a proposed Calendar for 2015 was agreed. The Treasurer reported a profit for the year and the Accounts were duly accepted. Despite an increase in room hire charges it was agreed to maintain table money and subscriptions at current levels for another year. This has proved possible due to good attendance levels. However, the cost for some Sims events will rise to £5 per player as the present charge is not sufficient to cover all associated costs.  It was noted the Hotel has withdrawn bottled water and only tap water will be provided. It has been agreed that members may bring their own "personal use" water but no drinks of any other kind are permitted as this is contrary to licensing conditions and could course the Hotel to review this concession. The meeting concluded with the election of the existing Committee "en-bloc" with the addition of Fred Davies. There were no other matters discussed and bridge commenced at 1935 hours.

Members may remember that the EBU British Summer Pairs was won by Dick Payne and David Stretton who collected a cash prize of £25 each. However, at the end of the "SIM PAIRS YEAR" all Club Heat Winners and Clubs are entered into prize draws for additional prizes which are drawn at the EBU AGM held this year on 26 November.

It is with great pleasure that we can announce that Maidstone Bridge Club has been successful on two counts in these prize draws. Firstly, the Club itself has won a runners up prize of £100 for staging the events throughout the year, but also Jean Letley and John Walker have also won a £100 pairs prize for winning the Autumn heat at Bearsted. Congratulations to everyone who took part and hopefully more players will be encouraged to participate next year knowing that prizes can be won. Details of the first events are listed in the column on the right.   

Lillian Vane has died aged 96. For the last few years Lillian has been in Barty House Bearsted but was still playing bridge regularly unti 2009.

Lillian was a founder member of Maidstone Bridge Club and with her husband Doug regularly ran the bridge sessions at Maidstone's Archbishops Palace where the Club met.

The funeral was at Vinters Park Crematorium on Wednesday 12 September at 1015 and Richard Sissons gave a short eulogy. 

At the recent Christmas party Chairman Richard Sissons and party organiser David Stretton were awarded 50 year's "long service certificates". They were also made life members of the Club. Pictured are David and Richard.

Please note Tuesday night's bridge is CANCELLED 30 October 2018.

Winners of the 2016 Club Mixed Pairs were Jane Hargraves and Rob Carman with the married couple trophy going to Audrey and John Chambers. The 2016 Club Championship Pairs, held the next day, was won by Geoff Smith and David Stretton. Congratulations to those players.

BUILDING A BRIDGE SYSTEM

Please note that Dick Payne has recently updated, revised and renamed his bidding manual. Click above to have a look.

Anyone interested in further discussion should contact Dick by email Dicks Mail Service

PLEASE NOTE THAT BEARSTED BRIDGE CLUB WILL BE PLAYING AT BEARSTED GOLF CLUB FOR THE NEXT TWO WEEKS WHILST THE BEARSTED AND THURNHAM CLUB UNDERGOES REFURBISHMENT. PLAY WILL START AT 1915 HOURS AS NORMAL. NO FOOD WILL BE SUPPLIED BUT THE BAR WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR DRINKS INCLUDING TEA/COFFEE.