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Market Harborough Bridge Club
 DiamondClub
Recent Updates
Fountain Court
13th Aug 2026 12:01 BST
Nearby Bridge Events
9th Aug 2026 13:03 BST
Release 2.19r
Fountain Court

Just prior to the recent EGM we received an updated offer from the landlord of fountain court.  This new offer was discussed at the last Trustee meeting, in conjunction with an updated proposal from Philip House. (Click here to view that proposal)

It was decided that whilst there are insufficient votes in favour as it stands, if we were able to raise additional funds of around £20,000 through a combination of loans, grants and donations, then it would be viewed  favourably by the Trustees as the financial risks would be suitably mitigated .

We have therefore started a fundraising campaign to help us bridge the gap to enable us to go ahead. Official grants can take some time to be approved (the Lotteries commission quotes 16 weeks typically). We are therefore appealing to members and supporters of the club to help with a commitment to either provide a loan or give a donation to help us.

Loans would have to be interest-free and "unsecured". Whilst we will endeavour to repay as quickly as possible, we cannot offer any guarantees.

Donations - we can claim gift-aid relief on them, so for every £1000 in donations we can claim an additional £250 from the government.

CURRENT STATUS

At 1st August 2026 we have commitments for:

Loans: £5,100.      Donations £6,450 (gift aid will add up to £1,550)

CURRENT TOTAL £13,100

Thank you very much to all those who have responded. This is an excellent start

If you have not already committed to making an offer to help, and would like to do so, please email chair@mhbridge.com with your offer.

Over the last few months we have been exploring the option of taking on a leased facility at Fountain Court in Market Harborough. It has involved a great deal of in depth analysis of opportunity, costs and revenue; and many, often quite intense, discussions.

After the recent EGM we have been considering an updated proposal (see below), based on a new improved offer from the landlord.

It was decided that whilst there are insufficient votes in favour as it stands, if we were able to raise additional funds of around £20,000 then it would be viewed  favourably by the Trustees as the financial risks would be suitably mitigated .

 

David North, Chair, MHBC
July 2026

Updated Proposal

Original worksheets:

Fountain Court Start up costs.pdf

Fountain Court Running Costs and Income.pdf