Just the latest updates on all things S&SCBA. Most importantly we held our AGM last Sunday, and as usual the salient details are all on the website, thank you Ann and Judy. A key thing of note was the election of Kath Adams our new chairman; we all wish her well in this role. At the same time, we recognise and thank Pamela for her tenure over the previous 9 years, in the chair. Enjoy your well-earned rest Pam.

The county SIMS pairs is held tomorrow (Wednesday). There are three heats, all being played face-to-face at Eccleshall, Newcastle and Wrekin. If you wish to play in any of these heats, check the website for the details for each specific venue, contact details and time.

Wednesday remains the most popular night for this event, as there are three clubs that play that night. However, the committee are aware of a request to accommodate other clubs on a different night, and we are looking at the possibility of hosting this on a Thursday in the future, potentially 28th Jan 2027. Please contact me, if this is something your club would like to host.

Finally, for the moment we are in the last throes of accepting teams for the county team leagues. There are 2 leagues, and participation is based primarily on each team's preference, whether league 1, for the more competitive or league 2, more social. Entries should be addressed to Paul Cutler. I am aware of some would like to play but haven't found teammates as yet, I am sure Paul can help point you in the right direction if you make him aware of your interest.

However, as those who frequent BridgeBaseOnline are aware, they are currently making changes to their membership model. This obviously influences these team matches which have since COVID been hosted on this site. The new system, superficially at least, means that the facility to set up team matches will be limited to 'premium members,' and this with a premium cost.

However, both the EBU and BBO would want us, to maintain the status quo, and it currently appears that we will be provided with a 'unique,' login allowing us to continue as before. This is except for the fact, that we will need to use this special login to avoid us having to be premium members to set up the game. There would be we assume some administration effort, in getting these logins, presumably for each match on a specific date. Discussions are continuing around this.

The county default position is therefore that these matches are to be played on BBO, on the 2nd Thursday of the month. However, should the two captains agree to play these games, within a month of the scheduled date and on BBO logged in through a Premium member, on RealBridge or even face-to-face, this is completely acceptable, but please keep Paul Cutler in the loop, on these alternative arrangements.

We look forward to meeting you all at the table, happy bridging.

Tony