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Members, as you know, it was not possible to hold an AGM this year. In fact, recalling April this year, I think we should be pleased how well we coped with Covid-19.
Many thanks to all who paid membership subscription, both playing and social, especially, as at the time, we were unsure as to whether or not we would be able to play.
It was impressive the way our ‘green team’, comprising Neil Carswell, James Phillips, Jackie Purvis and Roger Greef, kept our green in tip top condition in all weathers. How sad that visiting teams and clubs could not play and comment on their work. Thanks to Bob Allard for the many essential tasks he carries out, not forgetting David Mocock who helped sand and cement around the green, hopefully stopping the weeds. We cannot ignore a new role, that of ‘litter picker’, our thanks to Roger O’Leary who picked it up.
Thanks to Neil Patrickson who liaised with Bowls England to provide risk assessment advice which meant members could feel they could play safely. Over 30 members and at least 7 visitors played between 23rd May to 24th September. Singles, doubles and triples but sadly no competitions. Our thanks to Janice Allard, Jackie Purvis and Chrissie Laskey who ensured refreshments were provided for the spoon drives.
As a club we usually rely on visiting teams bar/canteen/raffle monies but despite their absence our finances are healthy at present, mainly because so many of you paid your subscriptions (£1980). Also, John Blackburn’s contribution from ‘short mat’ (£185.70) and Keith Pantling’s ‘spoon drives’ (£164) helped to reduce the inevitable shortfall in raffles, bar takings etc. (£854.20+).
We also qualified for a Government Leisure Grant of £10,000 which has meant that we did not dip into reserves. We still were able to purchase ten bucket chairs (£599.90) and much needed gents’ urinals in the toilet block (£1205). Also, we have been reimbursed by Norfolk Bowls (£348.25) for money we paid in 2019 for intended games in 2020 and a refund from NNDC on the rates (£250.88).
We have enough money to purchase new chairs to replace the ‘tired’ chairs in the clubhouse, this to happen next year.
Thanks to the Officers and also Jane Cosenza, for taking on meeting secretarial duties, and our Committee Members for all their contributions to the smooth running of our club.
Sadly, we cannot see any way we can hold our usual Coffee Morning or Christmas Party but, I think, you will agree we are in a good position for 2021.
Philip Edmonds, President.
This is the President’s report but we are sure all members will endorse that the Club wishes to thank Philip for his skilful, enthusiastic, and good-humoured contributions to the running of Cromer Marrams Bowls Club. He is always there for guidance, assurance etc.
Never leave, Philip, we need you!
If you would like to see a full report of the Club income and expenditure then Treasurer, Jackie Purvis, will be happy to provide details. 01263 514361.
The green has looked and played very well, in most cases, this season. Many thanks to the commitment of the volunteers in the ‘green team’ for their work. Even though the season closed on Sunday 27th September the work didn’t stop and with the assistance of the professionals from Willimotts the upkeep of the green will continue through to next Spring. Then we can start to play all over again!
We held two more socially competitive ‘spoon drives’ in September which were well attended. The first was deemed ‘Presidents Day’ and members enjoyed a game plus homemade refreshments. Thank you, ladies! President Philip was able to donate £100 from the day to the Ambulance Station on Middlebrook Way, Cromer to support them and show our gratitude for their extra efforts.
Unfortunately, the final event on 26th September had to be cancelled, even after moving it on one day, due to the very inclement weather and safety concerns. The high winds had put half the fence on the seaward side of the green onto the cliff path and there were a few loose tiles. Fortunately, nothing major considering the ferocity of the wind on the exposed cliff top! The council have been speedy in replacing the fence as the photos show.
Members will continue to meet on Friday evening, 7-10pm, at the club bar and we are OPENING for SHORT MAT BOWLS and COFFEE! Wednesday 28thOctober, 2.00pm.
The committee agreed that the clubhouse can be used safely with the door closed and extra heating added. The following conditions will apply:
Initially play will be PAIRS with a maximum of 8 members allowed each afternoon.
Tea/coffee will be served during the afternoon (with one member ONLY, each week responsible for the refreshment service from the kitchen).
Play will initially be on the traditional WEDNESDAY afternoon from 2.00pm to 4.00pm(ish!) (but members may also wish to play at another time [to be decided] depending on numbers interested and keenness!).
Cost of the afternoon will be £2.
Members are to bring their own bowls. Bowls are not to be shared.
The wearing of a face covering is optional.
Remember to keep social distancing.
Sanitise your hands at the door.
Under no circumstances should there be any use of changing rooms.
Shared equipment (Jacks, etc.) must be cleaned with anti-bacterial wipes before and after every session.
Members interested in playing must contact Neil Patrickson by Home phone (01263 513901) or Mobile phone/Text (07814060413) or Email (mnpatrickson@gmail.com) to book a place each afternoon. Unfortunately, no one can turn up and play without prior booking as numbers are limited. However, playing time each week will be rationed if numbers are above the limit or an extra session will be added. (If you are going to play it would be useful to know which other time in the week you would prefer).
Get your place booked NOW! First afternoon will be WEDNESDAY 28TH OCTOBER, 2.00PM
Back in August there were 16 members who expressed an interest in the short mat bowls. We hope that now we have the format/details arranged, initially it fulfils a need for them and any other members with a renewed interest. If there is anything else you feel the Club may be able to do to reduce the possible ‘drag’ of the winter months do please talk to a committee member.
We will do our best to keep you informed of Club ‘news’ throughout the close season.
Keep healthy and safe.
Cromer Marrams Bowls Club Committee
