Free Green for BOWLING - September
Saturday
8th March 2025 2pm
WSTBC
Clubhouse
Pre-Season
Meeting
Arrival:
26 Full Members and 2 Social Members arrived and signed in,
keys were purchased, and annual subscriptions paid.
Anyone not having paid yet please use the following details
or contact our Treasurer Steve Anderson steve@eurodat.co.uk to
arrange payment in person:
Membership Fee @ £40.00 Full or £5 Social via
cash, cheque or transfer.
Bank details to transfer payment:
Sort Code. 20 63 28
Account No. 90461466
Account Name. The Woodhall Spa Town Bowls
Club
Reference. Use Surname and initials.
Apologies Received:
Phil Redman, Steve Smith, Bev Redman, Di Redman, Phil
Briggs, Pauline Malon, Kevin Malon, Karen Kirton, David Kirton, Mick Taylor,
Steve Pearson, Hazel Trinder, Brian Trinder, Stan Avison, Tony Wells.
Pre-Season Meeting:
The Chairman (Dave Walsh)
Dave began by welcoming everyone to the meeting.
Chafer bugs have appeared on the Green lately, but our new
Greenkeeping team have these in hand. The new Greenkeeping team are going from
strength to strength in taking on challenges as they present themselves.
The Monday and Friday Teams are no longer referred to as A
and B Teams but by names, if you see one team has many names and the other
less, please consider signing up with the shorter team to even up available
players for each.
The Treasurer (Steve Anderson)
Club assets currently stand at £13,583 and 50 pence.
Due to measures taken last season, the club remains in a
healthy financial position despite the loss of the 1940’s weekend income, so
the committee saw no reason to increase annual subs or green fees this year.
As some of you will be aware we have switched from 3rd
party Green Maintenance to in house which has caused some extra initial expense
but will produce large savings as the season progresses. Many thanks to Ron and
his team for all their efforts to date and for the continuing work that they
will be doing throughout the season.
Tech – WSTBC WEBSITE: Folks, we must move with the times
and with that in mind, over the winter months I have been working on updating
the club website. It is live now but is far from being complete. As time goes
on the site will gain additional functionality which you will be made aware of,
most probably from our secretary Sam Elgar.
You can reach it from the old web address www.woodhallspabowls.co.uk or
its new address which is www.wstbc.co.uk.
There is a member’s only area which is password protected.
Sam or myself can let you have the password but please keep it to club members
only for the time being.
In there you can, for example
·
Enrol
and enter the intra club competitions on line.
·
View
all the old committee meeting minutes in one place.
·
View
a digital Calander of what’s happening when.
·
View
progress of the various intra club competitions and the results of the
individual games.
·
See
who beat who and who is playing who next.
In respect of the Intra Club section of the website, its
best to just see it as a digital version of the Intra club competitions board
in the clubhouse.
Please feel free to comment on the site, make suggestions
etc. All will be gratefully received.
WHATSApp Community: I have also been developing a Whatsapp
Community. This consists of smaller Whatsapp groups that members of the
community can join and we hope to expand and use this as one of our main
methods of communication within the club. For those who aren’t familiar with
Whatsapp, don’t worry. The old ways will still be available.
The Secretary (Sam Elgar)
Sam
stated she is really looking forward to this new season and pleased to see the
sun back out shining in anticipation.
Sam is intending to put down for Thursday eve home league
and pop in on Tuesday afternoons when not stuck at work! These games build new
players skills and offers experienced players the opportunity to pass on
knowledge whilst gaining practice, Tuesday will move to a 2pm start in line
with other games, as members have requested.
We are progressing to enter County Competitions this season
which is exciting progress for newer as well as established players.
I have kept our website up to date and am always grateful
for photographs and information emailed to keep this fresh. Steve has done a
great job maturing our new website which he just spoke about over the winter,
and I would encourage everyone to take a look and send your new photos to secretary.wstbc@outlook.com
Anyone who hasn’t received latest email with agenda for
this meeting please see Paul Bastiani (Membership Secretary) to update your
email. Whilst info is displayed in the clubhouse emails can prove handy
reminders.
Open Day is approaching Sat
12th April 2pm – I shared our Open Day poster with your last
Committee minutes and will again with these minutes but have also printed a few
posters off, please take one to display if you have somewhere in mind and share
the electronic version on your social media.
Spring Clean Saturday 5th
April from 10am. Please help to get the club ready for
potential new members and maintain a pleasant environment for existing ones. I
have also produced the cleaning rota displayed on our red noticeboard, close to
the loos. Dave will refer to this again under that agenda item.
The Appointment of Vice Captains for League Teams
Dave stated that Vice Captains are still required, to take
control of their team when their Captain is unavailable. Please pop your name
down if you are able to take on this vital role.
Competition Details and Signing up (Competitions
Secretaries) Pauline & Kevin Mallon
Pauline & Kevin have put up the Competition entry lists
now for you to complete. Competition entry is £2 per competition this year in
line with green fees.
The entry sheets will stay up until April 26th
before draws are completed leaving competitors 12/13 weeks to complete all the
games before trophies need engraving.
Arrangements for Friendly Matches (Friendly Fixture
Secretary) – Paul Bastiani
Paul has arranged 4 Friendly Matches for 2025, 3 away and
the Lincolnshire Vice Presidents at home, which will be a prestigious visit.
On 21st June for our away friendly to Holt BC,
Paul has booked a 16-seater bus provisionally for £525, working out £33 a
head. The day will consist of going to the seaside at Cromer for lunch, then
playing at Holt BC during the afternoon before socialising in their licenced
bar and returning in the evening. 16 names are required for Paul to confirm
the bus booking over the next few days so please do pop your name on the signup
sheet straight away or the club will not be able to take this financial risk.
Dave reiterated that all members are encouraged to sign up
for the teams regardless of ability or experience the most important aspect is
to have a go and enjoy yourself.
Establishment of a Cleaning roster for the Clubhouse
Our Spring
Clean takes place Saturday
(5th April) and as many members as possible are encouraged to
attend from 10am. Sam has
produced a cleaning roster sheet for the clubhouse which is displayed on the
red noticeboard near to the loos, you can put your name(s) down to take
responsibility for a particular week/weeks clean. Dave reiterated that as a
club we do need everyone to contribute a little. Thank you.
Croquet (Croquet Secretary Val Sylvester)
Val introduced and welcomed Patricia Duke-Cox, President of
Croquet.
Introducing the trial of Croquet for our 2025 season is an
exciting venture and something our club can be proud of.
Val explained that there is much time currently where
nothing goes on, on our Green, during the season, with 60% of time being free
and handed out timetables showing where Croquet could fill 23% of that time,
whilst Croquet will rearrange with Bowls if ever necessary.
Val explained that AC croquet is a technical/precise game,
unlike golf croquet you may have seen elsewhere and so maintains excellent
Green quality, just as Bowls does. There are no jump shots or chopping as you
may have seen in golf croquet.
Val has worked with Phil & Paul on Fixtures to identify
Thursdays until 5pm, Fridays 11am – 1pm and then Saturday or Sunday alternately
or to give Bowls priority, with no additional croquet required if Bowls games
are away.
Val referred to the croquet demonstration first set up in
2024 as well as experience at Sleaford Road BC (even though they also play golf
croquet) that there is no need to worry that any damage will be caused to the
Green.
Croquet players joining will have the opportunity to learn
bowling with us and for Bowls members wishing to try croquet, tuition can be
provided.
Val demonstrated that 34% (equivalent of 29 hours) of the
time will still be free for ad hoc roll-ups, competition games etc and she can
be reached if anyone is concerned about a time clash (see Time Slots for Free
Bowling doc). It was confirmed Croquet is in place as a year’s trial and that
flat smooth soled shoes are in use by Bowls and Croquet players, these do not
need to be acquired from a Bowls supplier, just fit these criteria. The only
change will be communicating more and getting used to using the calendar. Paul
Bastiani added using the website will make this much easier.
Val confirmed that the Croquet season will start and finish
at the same time as the Bowls season.
Any Other Business
Val and Jean Girling confirmed they will be running the
Tuesday Trophy this year, which will focus much more on learning and
progression to assist players into leagues, with far more schooling than
competition focus. Jean added that when she and Val joined WSTBC a coach was
available, which was very useful in learning rules and etiquette. She and Val
can also be available for Monday afternoon coaching as required.
The Bar Bye Laws are in hand but not ready to be discussed
as per agenda item. The Committee will progress these.
Patrick Newton stated he attended the Woodhall Friendly AGM
last week. There will be another discussion about whether North and South
divisions amalgamate before 2026 season so he would appreciate players thoughts
on the matter over this season. It was also agreed with some very hot weather
becoming more regular with climate change that Captains can agree at the start
of a game on a hot day that they will only play 12 ends.
Brian Haskett confirmed with all that the Green opens on 29th
March and that Leagues will start the first week of May. Tuesday Trophy will
start as early as possible with no scoring during the first two weeks, it is
hoped April will be fine enough for.
There being no other business, the meeting was closed by
the Chair at 1440hrs.
Woodhall Spa Town Bowls Club
Minutes of Committee Meeting
1000hrs Saturday 2nd March
2024
Present:
Dave
Walsh (Chairman/Greenkeeper)
Steve
Anderson (Treasurer/Bar Subcommittee)
Sam
Elgar (Secretary)
Ron
Nicholson (Friendly Fixtures/Bar Subcommittee Lead/Vice Chair)
Brian
Trinder (General)
Hazel
Trinder (Catering/Events)
Phil
Redman (Fixtures Secretary)
Pauline
Mallon (Joint Competitions Secretary)
Kevin
Mallon (Joint Competitions Secretary)
Paul
Bastiani (Membership/Property Secretary)
Terry
Butchart (Sponsorship Liaison/Bar Subcomittee)
Bev
Redman (Social Secretary)
Apologies:
Nil
Minutes of
Previous Meeting:
Agreed as
correct.
Chairman s/Green
keeper s Report (Dave Walsh)
Dave welcomed
Bev to the Committee as Social Secretary and the rest of the Committee joined
him.
Dave reported
that Ben from Grassroots is happy with the opening and closing of the Green
dates we agreed at the last meeting. They are now published on our website.
Ben has also
been completing work on the bare patches on the Green at the edges that we
thought had probably been caused by leaves accumulating outside of maintenance
and cutting. On investigation Ben discovered and treated an infection in these
areas. As a result the Green is looking much better as usual.
Treasurers
Report (Steve Anderson):
Steve reported
that the balances have been interrogated and have gone down by 2k since the
last meeting as a result of league entry payments, web hosting, score card
purchase, regular utility bills and a main cost driver of Green maintenance.
Steve presented
the Committee with a spreadsheet showing a projected loss of 3,151.88 over the
2024 season due to the loss of 1940 s weekend and current charges/expenditure.
The spreadsheet
highlighted numerous areas where charges and expenditure could be amended in
order to reduce this projected loss. Each was discussed in detail and changes
agreed by the Committee:
Fuel payments to
those providing lifts to matches – this is not something other clubs pay and
with vehicles becoming more economical felt excessive now. The Committee
agreed that these payments will cease and members receiving lifts from others
should consider donating a couple of pounds towards fuel to their drivers,
agreeing this amongst themselves.
Green Fees these
have remained at 1.50 for a number of years now and are no longer in line with
nearby clubs who are already charging 2. It was agreed that the green fees
will raise to 2 in 2024 season.
Grill/Cakes/Kitchen/Bar
Ingredients have increased in cost this year and our prices need to rise to
continue bringing in a health profit. It is expected that all local businesses
will raise their prices and so ours will still remain the cheapest in the
area. It was agreed to raise these by 20%, in effect putting 50p on a burger
for instance.
Meals provided at
Friendly Fixtures it is appreciated that the ingredients have also increased
in price for these yet it is difficult to work out what the cost will be prior
to approaching the dates they are required for. We have always received great
compliments on the quality of these meals so it was not felt cheaper
ingredients should be sourced that would consequently compromise the quality.
Instead, the meals will be costed close to the events and 50% added on to this price
in order to provide a fair profit for our club and maintain quality.
Car Boot the cost
of 5 per pitch has been in place for many years now and it was considered on
the day if this should increase to 8. It was agreed that Patrick Newton and
Mike Fox who kindly organise these should have the opportunity to provide input,
so this conversation continued by email after the meeting. The price of other
car boot pitches nearby was taken into consideration as well as the additional
profit already agreed on the grill/kitchen/cakes, and it was agreed that these
will remain at 5.
Club shirt prices
It was agreed that these are for members only and having used the initial
discount via sponsorship to subsidise the cost, they are now offered at full cost
price anyway so we should not put any additional charges above cost price on
these.
Advertising around
the Green last year this was sold at 70/year however sponsors are reported
to be happy to pay the going rate of 100/year which was agreed as the new
price.
Camping this has
remained at 5/night/person for a number of years whilst it includes use of
some of our utilities which have risen in price. It was agreed that raising
this to 8/person/night should be the 2024 price.
It was noted that
the profits from winter social events have dropped to nil over the 23-24 out of
season period. This appears to be due to lack of interest from members. We
are pleased to have Bev on board as our new enthusiastic Social Secretary and ask
that everyone engage with exciting new events Bev will be championing for us.
Clubhouse hire
(businesses) this has run at 15/hour over the last season but the profit
becomes eroded by the increased utility bills it attracts. It was therefore
agreed that this will now rise to 20/hour.
Clubhouse hire
(members) this had been 25/day last year but those who used it felt it was
worth much more and suggested a rate of 40/day. All agreed that this remains
excellent value for the facilities and approved 40/day.
Membership
Subscriptions These were voted on at AGM to remain at 40 full members and 5
social members so will not change for the 2024 season however our finances will
need scrutinising again before the November 2024 AGM and if other measures put
in place have not covered the loss of 1940 s weekend profits of 3k, then members
should be mindful that these will need to rise for the 2025 season.
Secretary s
Report (Sam Elgar):
Sam stated that
she has updated the website with all our confirmed 2024 dates as well as the
application forms to enter our Open Pairs and Triples.
The Open Pairs
and Triples competition entry forms have also been shared to the other
Secretaries in region who will display at their clubs for us.
Sam had printed
up a number of Open competition entry forms shared for display in this manner
to our club, if you are considering entering, these can be viewed on the first
notice board on your right as you enter our clubhouse.
Sam was pleased
to share an email from Paul Fox stating he would like to hold more camps this year
as well as maintaining a booking where the 1940 s weekend would have fallen.
The Pre-season
meeting agenda was agreed ready for Sam to share with all members the same day,
in preparation for the following Saturday (Pre-season meeting 2pm Saturday 9th
March 2024).
Sam asked if the
agreed Open Day preparation is underway for 2pm Sat 6th April. Ron
confirmed he has booked the roundabout banner. Dave confirmed it is appearing
in the Woodhall Wapentake, Bev agreed to produce a new poster which we can all
share to raise interest. Steve stated there are no official bowls
clothing/equipment suppliers available to attend, Sam and Terry agreed to
approach some local businesses who produce bowling shoes and suitable
trousers/shorts, this may even result in additional sponsorship.
Sam raised that
she has been sent scam emails pretending to be Dave Walsh and Steve Anderson,
asking for her to purchase items. It was agreed the names and email addresses
targeted/used are most likely being taken from our website where the Chairman,
Secretary, Treasurer and Membership Secretary have these displayed to allow
contact from potential new members and genuine enquiries. It was agreed that
these need to remain to allow genuine contact and the scam emails are easy to
spot as they do not come from the genuine email address of these 4 listed but just
have the prefix of their name, typically have Americanised phrases and are
always asking for purchases to be made. The Committee agreed that they will
not be purchasing anything without confirming over the phone with the other
Committee member that an email has come from them.
Membership/Property
Secretary s Report (Paul Bastiani):
Nil
to report.
Fixtures
Secretary s Report (Phil Redman):
Nil to report.
Friendly
Fixtures Secretary (Ron Nicholson):
Ron reported
that he has been in contact with Collingham who have confirmed their visit to
us on Sunday 30th June, Sam will add this date to our website and
Ron will put up list to add your names when the time of the visit is confirmed.
Ron has also
been in touch with Sutton on Sea who have confirmed both home and away dates,
these are away (at Sutton on Sea) Saturday 4th May they usually go
for fish and chips following their games, which we are encouraged to
participate in and home (at WSTBC) Saturday 8th June. Sam will also
add these to our website and Ron will produce lists to sign up on.
Ron may have
news from Holt for the next meeting.
Bar (Ron
Nicholson):
In line with
agreed prices the alcohol will go up by 20% for the 2024 season. It is hoped
the bar will contribute to combating our 1940 s deficit in its first full
season of availability.
Competition
Secretary s Report (Pauline & Kevin Mallon):
Pauline and
Kevin reported that the sign-up sheets for 2024 competitions will be up in our
clubhouse for members to add their names from 9th March, at the
Pre-season meeting. Entry this year will be 2/competition, in line with the
increase in Green Fees.
Sponsorship/Liaison
Secretary s Report (Terry Butchart):
Nil to report.
Social
Secretary s Report (Bev Redman):
Bev showed the
Committee a pack of Bonus Ball cards she has obtained for us and following
discussion it was agreed Bev will also supply an honesty box for this. Each
card has 100 squares which can be purchased at 1/square. When the card is
full the winning number will be scratched off and 70 will be won by the lucky
person having bought that square, with 30 going to club funds.
Bev talked about
a version of cricket bowls a nearby club plays. The equipment includes wickets
which do not damage the Green at all and can be produced by those with
carpentry skills (Dave 😊) relatively easily. The new Fixed Jack
Coronation Cup last season was a great hit and has embedded as an annual
event. Bev will investigate this potential hit further and look to present to
us with more information shortly.
Bev understands
that members indicated they prefer afternoon events and is happy to do the
preparation required to put on events that members want, be they Racing, Bingo,
Quiz or something completely new. Please discuss any ideas you have with Bev
and support the events she leads on for us.
Events/Catering
Secretary s Report (Hazel Trinder):
Whilst Ron had
offered to take on co-ordinating the Open Pairs and Triples, Hazel has decided
she enjoys it too much to pass on so will continue with these.
Hazel has posted
and emailed out entry forms for these and so far, received 5 Triples entries
and 7 Pairs entries. If you have not yet done so please consider entering
these enjoyable events.
Any other
Business:
Brian raised
that the expense of filling the 12 troughs with flowers this year has become
too high to justify. Paul stated at his previous club members put their names
down to fill and maintain a trough each. This not only saved on expenses for
the club but lead to healthy competition between members to cultivate trough of
the year. All agreed this is something we should offer to members.
Our Committee
board needs amending to reflect Bev Redman joining, John Egleston retiring and
Ron Nicholson/Steve Anderson switching roles.
Dave stated that
the member who had suggested holding a craft fair to raise club funds had
decided against investigating this further and presenting costings to the
Committee.
Steve has
managed to change our electric tariff to one with 60p/day instead of 1/day
standing charge. This will save us approx. 400/year. (Added to minutes by
Steve in explanation : in addition to the Standing Charge decrease, the
rate per kilowatt has also been reduced from 47.82 pence per KWh (+VAT) to 24.2
pence per Kwh (+VAT)) Well done
Steve.
Whilst Terry
managed to find a charity which would fund 50% of a de-fib cost, he has as yet
been unable to find a fully funded option but will keep on investigating.
With there being
no further matters arising the meeting was closed by the Chair at 1150hrs.
Next
Committee Meeting:
Saturday 6th
April 2024. 1000hrs.
Woodhall Spa Town Bowls Club
Minutes of Committee Meeting
1000hrs Saturday 6th April
2024
Present:
Dave
Walsh (Chairman/Greenkeeper)
Steve
Anderson (Treasurer)
Sam
Elgar (Secretary)
Brian
Trinder (General/Bar Subcommittee)
Hazel
Trinder (Catering/Events)
Phil
Redman (Fixtures Secretary)
Pauline
Mallon (Joint Competitions Secretary)
Kevin
Mallon (Joint Competitions Secretary)
Paul
Bastiani (Membership/Property Secretary)
Terry
Butchart (Sponsorship Liaison/Bar Subcommittee)
Bev
Redman (Social Secretary)
Apologies:
Ron
Nicholson (Friendly Fixtures/Bar Subcommittee Lead/Vice Chair)
Minutes of
Previous Meeting:
Agreed as
correct.
Chairman s/Green
keeper s Report (Dave Walsh)
Dave reported
that our plastic barrier is up around the first corner of the Green for Open
Day as it is too wet to stand on currently but expected to dry out soon.
The weather was
beginning to look up with our Open Day that very afternoon.
Treasurers
Report (Steve Anderson):
Steve ran
through the balance sheets with the Committee, the 2,385.58 income recently
was mainly due to membership subscriptions being paid for the 2024 season.
64.99
expenditure was on a new battery for the ride on lawnmower.
A quarterly
Green maintenance bill has come in also, being up by 5% this has resulted in a
profit of 425.18 in the Feb 28-Mar 31st period, giving total assets
of 17,238.61.
Secretary s
Report (Sam Elgar):
Sam reported our
website is up to date with 2024 events and only the friendly with Holt needs
confirming now to add to this.
Sam has received
more photos and added these to the website following her plea at the Pre-season
meeting (please keep them coming to secretary.wstbc@outlook.com ).
Despite
approaching local fashion and footwear retailers none had wished to attend Open
Day with suitable bowling attire for members to purchase however they had been
happy to promote our Open Day by displaying posters.
Our support for
the proposed one-way system on the roads surrounding our club has been
registered with Lincolnshire County Council.
Glen Lodge
(between The Petwood & Village Limits) have advertised a ticketed 1940 s
event on what would have been the Village 1940 s weekend in July. It is still
not clear how much or little will happen in the Village that weekend, but we
will keep our eyes and ears open and make a decision at the July Committee
meeting if we should get a TENS and put on any catering/entertainment for the
general public then.
Sam has received
an email with a Sports Facilities Survey request from a consultation company
working with sporting venues in East Lindsey and considering any threat to them
from local development. It was agreed that Sam should complete this survey.
Sam ran through
the list of upcoming events for discussion.
Car Boot First one
bank holiday Mon 6th May, followed by 27th May and 26th
Aug. Dave stated he has made two Advertising boards for pointing towards us
whilst these events are taking place. Everyone was very impressed and will go
on to consider if these should be sign written, have our posters attached for
each event or be chalk board painted to be written for each event. Phil stated
he will collect the posters Ron has produced for the first Car Boot.
Friendly fixture
away at Sutton on Sea Saturday 4th May Phil stated he will put a
list up for those wishing to play/willing to drive to complete.
Holt proposed
friendly at home current proposed dates of 7th or 18th
July require confirming Phil stated he will work with Ron on this.
Price lists for
catering/refreshments were then interrogated in line with the agreement to
increase these by 20% at the last Committee meeting and it was identified that
the 1940 s weekend price lists we have from last year already reflect this and
can be used. Hazel stated that as she reproduces these, she will add a date
reference to the lists making it easier to identify which lists are current at
future meetings/events.
Membership/Property
Secretary s Report (Paul Bastiani):
Paul
reported that there are still several members who have not paid their 2024 subs
and ran through them with the Committee to identify who he should contact
personally before producing the 2024 membership lists.
If
your subs are still outstanding this is how you can renew for 2024:
Membership
Fee @ 40.00 Full or 5 Social via cash, cheque, or transfer.
Bank
details to transfer payment:
Sort
Code. 20 63 28
Account
No. 90461466
Account
Name. The Woodhall Spa Town Bowls Club
Reference.
Use Surname and initials.
Petwood
Caravan park have paid their 100 banner sponsorship invoice.
Ian
Haskit, an experienced bowler who came to look around at our Pre-season meeting
has joined our club now.
Fixtures Secretary s
Report (Phil Redman):
Phil has shared
the draft Fixtures List with Committee and Captains for checking and the final
draft will be emailed to all members and a few copies printed to pick up in our
clubhouse very soon.
Friendly
Fixtures Secretary (Ron Nicholson):
Along with his
apologies Ron had sent a report for his area outlining there is just the Holt
friendly date to finalise and that fine detail is being worked through with the
other clubs.
Unfortunately,
the Winter Tour to Spain will not go ahead as there was not the take up
required from members to make it viable.
Bar (Brian
Trinder):
Brian asked
members to remember that the bar is available to us, it is hoped this will
bring in some much-needed profit in its first full season of availability.
There will also
be some items available at 1 which are past their BBF date.
Competition
Secretary s Report (Pauline & Kevin Mallon):
Pauline and
Kevin reported that the sign-up sheets for 2024 competitions are up in our
clubhouse and gradually being populated.
Steve will
provide the Competitions Secretaries with a paid up members list before the
draws are made.
Sponsorship/Liaison
Secretary s Report (Terry Butchart):
Terry reported
that he has invited Tattershall Lakes business to our Open Day to consider
sponsorship as well as Scott from JJ s garage and garden centre Terry
attended JJ s to purchase the compost for our flower troughs and had a good
introduction through this. (There are still some troughs available for those
wishing to put their name down to plant one up.)
Phil added that
he has invited NHP and Goodwins to the Open Day with a view to gaining
sponsorship also.
Terry asked
Steve to invoice Pin Cushions for their agreed sponsorship.
Terry continues
to liaise with Eyres, Bar Eleven and Oaklands Park for further sponsorship.
A conversation
about enjoyable visits to Baumber Walled Garden followed and Terry agreed it
would be somewhere worth him approaching also.
Social
Secretary s Report (Bev Redman):
Bev would like
to remind members that the bonus ball lotto card and honesty box are now
available. The winner of each card will be revealed when the card is full.
Events/Catering
Secretary s Report (Hazel Trinder):
Hazel reported
that entries for the Pairs and Triples competitions are gradually coming in.
We currently have 14 Pairs and 13 Triples entries.
Dave stated that
a bowler from Lincoln was not aware of our competitions. Sam responded that
whilst they have been shared within our league contacts – Club Secretaries
(i.e. Boston and Coningsby) she does not have Lincoln contacts but is happy to
look these up on their websites and email the Secretaries. Hazel has already
sent the invites to previous entrants and Sam has added to our website.
If you have not
yet done so, please consider entering these enjoyable events.
Any other
Business:
Pauline stated
that she will be getting the craft table out following the meeting ready for
Open Day and beyond.
Steve stated
that a leak in the roof above the kitchen in our clubhouse had been identified
during Spring Clean day. Dave stated he is able to fix this. Sam stated Dave
is A mazing!
Steve stated
that we have received a query from Jubilee Park Croquet players whether our
Green could be used for croquet as well as bowling as happens at Sleaford Road
Bowls club. The croquet green at Jubilee Park is not suitable for their needs
any longer. A discussion was held on this, but it became apparent we require
much more information on how this might work before making any decisions. This
item will be for further investigation and discussion.
Dave asked the
Committee to sort out our storerooms for an hour following the meeting before
Open Day began, which took place.
Paul stated that
we require a new trophy for the Fixed Jack Coronation Cup this year as the
trophy was presented to keep last year. Dave will look into how we may obtain
one.
It was raised
through a Member that calling our Monday and Friday League Teams the A and B
Teams was not as pleasant as having names like the Wednesday Woodpeckers and
Wanderers. Whilst the teams are entered into leagues as A and B this season we
could select new names for next season. Please email any suggestions for names
to Secretary Sam at secretary.wstbc@outlook.com over the next month, these suggestions
will be forwarded to Team Captains for a final decision.
Sam reminded
everyone that we are setting the clubhouse chairs out around tables this year
prior to matches rather than in rows, as requested by a member at the end of
last season and agreed at the following Committee meeting.
With there being
no further matters arising the meeting was closed by the Chair at 1145hrs.
Next
Committee Meeting:
Saturday 1st
June 2024. 1000hrs.
Woodhall Spa Town Bowls Club
Minutes of Committee Meeting
1000hrs Saturday 29th June 2024
Present:
Dave
Walsh (Chairman/Greenkeeper)
Steve
Anderson (Treasurer)
Sam
Elgar (Secretary)
Brian
Trinder (General/Bar Subcommittee)
Hazel
Trinder (Catering/Events)
Pauline
Mallon (Joint Competitions Secretary)
Kevin
Mallon (Joint Competitions Secretary)
Bev
Redman (Social Secretary)
Phil
Redman (Fixtures Secretary)
Ron
Nicholson (Friendly Fixtures/Bar Subcommittee Lead/Vice Chair)
Apologies:
Paul
Bastiani (Membership/Property Secretary)
Terry
Butchart (Sponsorship Liaison/Bar Subcommittee)
Minutes of
Previous Meeting:
Agreed as
correct.
Chairman s/Green
keeper s Report (Dave Walsh)
Dave reported
that the bowling direction on our Green has been turned around again to try and
save some of the grass which has sustained damage in the wet weather and
particularly on Open Day in April. Billinghay have put forward a proposal that
the outdoor bowling season be moved from April August, onto May September
which may be of benefit in maintaining all Greens.
Sutton-on-Sea
shared with us that they only use Grass Roots Green maintenance once a year, in
September to complete winterisation, seed sowing and top dressing. This
results in an annual bill of over 50% less than we are currently paying and
where it has become apparent, we cannot recoup the loss of 1940 s weekend in
full annually, this is a cost cutting exercise we must consider.
Dave went on to
explain that Sutton-on-Sea manage this by having working parties made up of
club members who, on rotation, look after the Green three times a week for the
remainder of the season. A discussion was held on how we could identify
members who would be willing to take part in our proposed work parties. In the
first instance the Committee would like to bring to your attention here that if
we cannot get volunteers then subs as well as Green fees will have to increase
substantially. We will shortly be sending out an electronic questionnaire
which every member should complete so as we can identify who is happy to
volunteer for what duties, to support our club. Even if you are unable to
offer any help at all, please complete this to allow the Committee to view a
full picture of where we can go.
Treasurers
Report (Steve Anderson):
Steve explained
that an annual council tax issue arose as our banking does not allow for
references to be added as we wish when making payments, this results in the
payment being unidentified by the receiver and we must then point it out to
them every year. This is resolved for now, this year.
The benefit of
removing fuel allowances and increased Green fees shows in our accounts but not
to the extent it will cover the lost 3k from 1940 s weekend.
Accounts were
scrutinised and shown to have 18,140 total assets/equity however when the 8k
Grass Roots bill is paid it will look significantly reduced.
615
professional fees have been charged for the Land Registry documents which were
commissioned back in 2022.
With 44.79
equipment repairs paid out for the ride on mower, which was not serviced for
4/5 years, and an essential servicing tool approved at 40 on top of these
listed expenses the current account will end up 3k in deficit without 1940 s
weekend in July. As Dave pointed out, savings need to be made and volunteer
working parties are our best hope to reduce Grassroots costs, so please do get
involved.
Secretary s
Report (Sam Elgar):
Sam reported our
website is up to date with 2024 events and welcomes further photos for this
from members over the season to secretary.wstbc@outlook.com
Sam
asked if anyone could deliver the copies of Land Registry documents to Trustees
without email, to save on stamps. Dave and Steve volunteered to do this.
Sam
reported that she has now put up the list to add your names and numbers of
guests you may wish to bring to the Summer Social BBQ on Sat 27th
July. This is so we have an idea how much salad is required. Our Bar will be
open for purchases at the event, bring your own food to be put on the BBQ.
Sam
reported that she has been liaising with the Conservative Club over this years
Salmon Trophy, she has managed to secure the buffet afterwards at the same
price as the previous two years. Hopefully our bar can make some profit as
well as Green fees and Raffle (the collection boxes will be out again soon),
Dave will arrange the prize for the Spider and Paul will ensure our membership
forms are available on the day for interested visitors from the Con Club. Ideally,
we will have 18 or 24 players from each club, it is understood that those who
are members of both will mostly play for the Con Club and Sam will ask Val
Sylvester to inform Ruby Salmon s family that this is taking place from 1.30pm
on Saturday 17th August. Watch out for the sign-up sheets appearing
in both clubs this month 😊
Running
through other upcoming dates for discussion, it was noted that the Coronation
Cup could do with a few more names up on Sunday 14th July.
The
friendly at home to Holt on Thu 18th July 2pm is short of names, Ron
made the decision the Thu eve interclub competition will be postponed that week
allowing more to put their names down without bowling twice in one day.
The
Open Pairs on Saturday 20th July is now full and closed.
The
Open Triples on Saturday 24th August currently has 18 confirmed
teams so some scope for further teams, ensuring an even number of teams are
entered.
Membership/Property
Secretary s Report (Paul Bastiani):
Paul
sent a report with his apologies:
We
have two new members (Elizabeth Pollard & James Cork welcome 😊)
Paul
has sold 3 shirts, leaving 7 in stock since the last meeting.
2/3
members wish to purchase shirts who s sizes we do not have in stock currently.
New
members generally are keen to order a shirt.
Paul
asked for authorization to order 10 more shirts which will be stock in hand
rather than expenditure. This was approved by the Committee.
You
can contact Paul at prbastiani@gmail.com should you wish to
purchase shirts at 27.
Fixtures
Secretary s Report (Phil Redman):
Nil to report.
Friendly
Fixtures Secretary (Ron Nicholson):
Sunday 30th
June Friendly Home Collingham. Ron was not able to raise Collingham via
their contact details so drove over and met with them, they have 14 players and
2 spectators attending tomorrow.
Thursday 18th
July Friendly Home – Holt BC will bring 14 players to play 5 rinks of
triples borrowing a WSTBC player, over 18 ends. A break after 9 ends for
tea and biscuits. On completion retire to the pavilion for tea and
cakes. Holt to supply the cakes. The WSTBC bar will be open on the
afternoon. Match fees agreed at 2.00 per player.
A commemorative A4 certificate to be produced by Ron for presentation on the
day, as requested by Holt.
Lincolnshire
Vice Presidents Association have been in touch and wish to identify a date to
play at WSTBC in a friendly 2025 season.
New memorabilia
is required for repeat visiting teams and Ron asked Sam if she could arrange
for local business producer Sally to demonstrate what she has available to the
Committee as we were impressed with last year s keyrings for the Salmon Trophy;
Sam will invite her to an upcoming meeting.
Bar (Ron
Nicholson):
Ron stated that
he had identified mistakes in previous stocktakes where 48 bottles of water had
caused inaccurate figures and having drawn a line under this has now ensured
that all stock is kept together in the storeroom to avoid a repeat of this
mistake.
It was
identified that it is our Bar s first year of trading at the Salmon Trophy (17th
August) and with this event attracting multiple thirsty spectators, as well
as players it should be well stocked to offer it the opportunity to do well for
us.
Competition
Secretary s Report (Pauline & Kevin Mallon):
Pauline reported
that the Competitions are now well underway, and she is collecting monies.
Thank you to Jim
Aldridge who is extending the Patchett Cup trophy plinth to allow for further
engraving as well as producing a new Coronation Cup trophy.
All trophies,
including the Tuesday Trophy and Coronation Cup will be presented at
Presentations Day (Sun 8th September).
Sponsorship/Liaison
Secretary s Report (Terry Butchart):
Nil to Report.
Social
Secretary s Report (Bev Redman):
Bev has looked
further into Cricket Bowls but found this not to be viable for us.
Please buy a few
more 1 bonus ball squares so we can uncover the winner of the 70 soon.
Bev will be
thinking about additional games/competitions for spectators at the Salmon
Trophy on 17th August.
Events/Catering
Secretary s Report (Hazel Trinder):
All events are
in hand, whilst the Pairs are full, there is still scope to add a few more
Triples teams, so long as these equate to an even number of teams.
If you are still
considering entering here is our Triples application:
Any other
Business:
As agreed at an
earlier Committee meeting Raffles should run with the same colour tickets
throughout, Dave has purchased some pink ones to ensure this happens; as well
as winning tickets being stuck to each prize rather than becoming excessively
time consuming in winners picking out prizes.
The Tangent Club
of Woodhall Spa has requested a taster evening on Wed 17th July.
Dave will arrange this and let us know if he requires any further assistance on
the evening.
Ron likes the
diary used on the Collingham website and asked Sam to have a look at their site
to see if ideas could be incorporated into ours. Sam will complete this and
report back at the next meeting.
Phil stated that
some had asked why we don t have a Facebook page but it was noted this requires
daily admin as a minimum and with a website should not be required. Sam adds
our Car boot events to local Community Facebook sites, and this was considered
sufficient at this time.
Dave repaired
the kitchen roof which had leaked using the ladders Brian Trinder has kindly
donated (Thank you Brian). Dave found that pine needles had built up as well
as some fixings requiring waterproofing on the roof (Thank you Dave). We will
need to stay on top of clearing the pine needles moving forward.
Steve spoke to Phil
Richardson about completing our annual PAT testing who has agreed to cover this
for us. Thank you, Phil.
Steve will
cancel our Music Licence to prevent it auto-renewing as we are not using it for
1940 s weekend anymore.
With there being
no further matters arising the meeting was closed by the Chair at 1205hrs.
Next
Committee Meeting:
Saturday 17th August
2024. 1000hrs.