How good it is to be back playing live at Hammond Hall. When the government said that we could meet again in public we immediately opened up bridge and were surprised that there were 11 tables on that first Thursday night. Clearly members were keen to return to a friendly and social bridge club.
It was decided that this year there would only be normal duplicate on Thursdays with a Pairs Competition on the second Thursday of each month. However, members feed-back suggested that the league competition was missed and it was decided to run this if there was sufficient demand. In fact 18 pairs wished to take part and therefore 2 divisions were needed. The newly voted for format was used and teams were formed on the basis of their seeding over the year.
The Club also ran their popular Random Seeded Teams Competitions on 2 Sunday afternoons in November and February. These were efficiently directed by Dave Williams and a very tasty afternoon tea provided by members.
Barry Leverett organised, what is becoming our regular 2 curry nights at Newark Golf Club. This is an ideal venue with Chicago bridge played in a separate room and then moving into the main Club Room for a variety of curry dishes.
Unfortunately we could not have our usual Christmas celebrations because of stricter Covid regulations at the time.
Tuesday afternoons continue to be used for social bridge.
On Wednesday evenings Barry and Lesley have taught bridge over a 2 year course for many years. We are indebted to their continued support and excellent teaching. However, they have decided that the time has come to stand down from this role. We are fortunate that a keen group of members have come together to deliver a new course which started in January.
Throughout the Covid period and when we returned to live bridge I have been supported by all the members of the committee and we have met regularly (either by Zoom or socially distanced when appropriate). I am therefore sad to lose 2 very long serving members who have decided the time has come to step down from their roles. My sincere thanks and appreciation go to Tony Tyler and Anne Lanes for their unstinting support and loyalty. Tony has been secretary for many years and has a thorough understanding of the workings of our Club and always been there to advise. Anne has taken a particular role in membership and support of improvers, particularly on Tuesday afternoons. Her catering advice and prowess has been really appreciated.
At our last committee meeting it was decided to return to all the competitions and events that we regularly ran pre Covid (with the exception of the Charity Day). It is good to have our Club back to where it was in Roy’s day. Hopefully the Charity Day can also be resumed in the future.