Management Meeting Minutes

MINUTES OF THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB COMMITTEE MEETING

HELD AT CLUBHOUSE ON MONDAY 9^th FEBRUARY at 10AM

These minutes are in draft form only will be ratified at the next meeting on 9th March 2026. 

CLUB DRAW WINNERS: 53 (Jenny Harrison), 7 (Mark Ireland), 17 (Colin Bryant) 

1.      APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND ATTENDEES

Apologies – Kate Johns, Roger Johns, David Gorman, Steve Rayner, Martin Sugarman, Mark Ireland

Attendees – Anne Claxton, Derek Budde, Sue Newton, Marjorie Goodfellow, Wendy Eltze, Jane Cummings, Kathy Dixon, Bill Heron, Carol Rushton, Susan Gorman PLUS Steve Pope and Chris Heath for the first item.

ADDITIONAL ITEM:

Steve Pope our new webmaster gave a resume of his plans for the new website, including the addition of drone video footage and photos.  After discussion it was agreed to remove old photos, ensure that the public facing part of the website is enticing and informative, whereas the members only part is easy for Captains and committee members to edit.  The new platform will be WordPress premium, so it should be easy to edit and look professional.  After discussion it was agreed that members’ full contact details would not be included, but were required by the league and club captains.

2.      MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

Agreed as a true record.   

3.      MATTERS ARISING

Susan has not yet altered the rules to include R9 and the now code of conduct.

Matters arising are included under item 8.

4.      TREASURSER’S REPORT (David Sanders)

Subscriptions have started to come in.  In our current account we have £2100, in our savings account we have 73K plus 15K towards our new carpet 

5.      CLUB WINTER CAPTAIN’S REPORT (David Gorman)

Since the last meeting we have played one match, against Preston Indoor (which we lost).  People are signing up well for the matches, but I did expect those who play indoors to sign up for the indoor matches……DS suggested emailing to remind everyone of the upcoming matches.

UPDATE ON FIXTURES (Jane Cummings)

These have all been sorted HOWEVER it was note that the fixtures are all on the website, yet no discussion has been had by the committee.  So it has been agreed that the main focus of our March meeting will be the fixtures.  It was agreed that:

Easter Egg Drive will be on 6^th April

The opening of the summer season will be on 26^th April

Charity Day will be 18^th July (Cancer Research)

Finals weekend will be 29^th and 30^th August

Jane will check – Triple Day, Roy Holm Cup date preferred by Roy, move the Adur match to early September of middle of August.

 UPDATE ON COUNTY MATTERS (Kate Johns and Roger Johns)

Roger - County comp draws have been made: individuals who entered with have received their schedules.  Men's team entries, Double rink (Abergavenny) The Drive drawn to play Southwick on Wed May 13th

Kate - Ladies team entries, Top club = The Drive drawn away at Portslade to be played on Saturday May 16th. Double Rink = The Drive drawn against Hove and Kingsway to be played Thursday June 18th.

6.      GENERAL UPDATE ON BAR/BUILDING/GARDEN WORKS (Derek Budde)

Balcony update – there are 2 snagging issues, still to be resolved.

Double glazing update – Andrew Dixon has advised against replacing the windows, as lintels will be needed and the cost will be huge. 

Decorating- it was agreed to go ahead but to add in the windows and doors in the estimate for making good and plastering and decorating.

Peter and David Dixon continue with their Sunday morning gardening, others are welcome.  Meirion is doing a great job of pots and planting.

7.      UPDATE ON SOCIAL EVENTS (Marjorie Goodfellow or Wendy Eliz)

This could not happen, due to the fixtures not yet being agreed so will happen at the next meeting.

8.      SUGGESTION BOX

N/A

9.      AOB

No new member applications

Coaching will happen on 11^th, 13^th, 18^th, 20^th April.  Ideally people will attend 2 sessions.  Sign up sheets will go up soon.

David Sanders has purchased 6 new white jacks, some are being used for Saturday Morning League.

Steve is poorly so Kathy or Bill will attend the Nicholas Soames meeting in his place.  Then Kathy and Susan are likely to take over the running of the league.  It is hoped that Steve will be well enough to continue with his kit duties………

10.   TIME AND DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The meeting closed at 11:40

The next meeting will be on Monday 9^th March 2026 at 10am

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MINUTES OF THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB AGM

HELD ON TUESDAY 20^TH JANUARY 2026 at 11.00

 These minutes are in draft form only will be ratified at the next AGM on 19th January 2027.

CLUB DRAW; 59 Derek Budde, 47 Derek Davies, 60 David Wilkinson

1.   Apologies for Absence were received from:

Mark Ireland, Carol Rushton, Rob Rushton, Betty Freeman, Cliff Wing, Jenny Harrison, Lesley Heanen, Kevin Heanen, Bernie Banks, Steve Pope, Arthur Wing, David Wlkinson, Chris Holm, Brenda Newnham

2.   To agree the minutes of meeting held on 16/1/2025 (attached) and discuss any matters arising

These were agreed with no matters arising.

3.   President’s Report 2025 – Kathy Dixon

Firstly, I would like to thank everyone for attending today’s AGM.  It’s good to see so many of you here.  Just a reminder, have you all signed in?
I think everyone will agree that this has been another really good year for the Drive Bowling Club.  Committee members will report on their respective responsibilities in a moment but I would just like to highlight the successes of this year.
Membership numbers are very healthy and this is mainly down to David Sander’s efforts in recruiting new members in various ways, and we welcome all the new members that have joined this season.
As our funds are in a reasonably good state, we have been able to do several upgrades to the club, ie the new balcony, several overgrown trees have been removed and we look forward to the replacement of the doors and windows in the downstairs of the club house, hopefully in the not too distant future.
As President of the club I would like to thank all the committee members for their hard work over the last year and a special thanks to Chris Heath for all the work he has done over the past 13 years with our website, and is now retiring from that role.   Also, a big thank you to one of our new members, Steve, who is taking the role over.   The club’s continuous success depends upon club members volunteering for all the roles that are required to run The Drive Bowling Club.
I will now pass you over to Bill.

4.   Summer Captain’s Comments 2025 – Bill Heron

As most members will know this was my first season as Summer Captain. There was a lot to learn and I would like to thank everybody who made my job so much easier than it might have been.

Firstly, it was those senior members, some of whom who had themselves been Captains, for their advice and knowledge of how the Club match system works. Special thanks go to the immediate past Captain Carol Rushton.

Then, there the members of the Captaincy team, Sue Newton, Martin Sugarman, and Steve Rayner for taking some of the matches and providing much good advice. Of course, we all operate under the Club Committee and I thank last year’s Committee Members for their advice and support.

No Club or Captain can be well run without a good President, and Kathy Dixon certainly fulfils the role wonderfully. Again, I thank her for encouragement and support. Neither can a modern bowls Club operate without good I.T. and I have to acknowledge the support given to me by Chris Heath, webmaster, because a Captain’s workload would be unsustainable without the back up our website provides.

The Club played 29 friendly matches against other Clubs. We won 16 and lost 12. In addition, a number were abandoned or postponed due to storms and, sadly, one Club could not raise a team. 53 Club members played in at least one match. My criteria for team selection was generally not related to skills. My aim was to give everyone a game. Over the season I found that entries tended to match the number of places available. Often there were no reserves and occasionally a ring round to complete a team was necessary. All Captains need the phone numbers of players who they can rely on to fill a place at the last minute. June was a particularly difficult period because of the sheer number of matches competing for players. However, we got through it and I do appreciate the efforts of all those who played then, and throughout the season thus making it so enjoyable.  Friendly matches are sociable and a good way to gain experience.   

There were also special matches and events including President v Captain, Opening of the season, and The Roy Holm Cup. Thanks to Roy for his generous sponsorship of this entertaining Ladies v Men event. I shall be looking to reverse our 56-50 defeat this season. It was nice to welcome one of the Club’s sponsors, Andrew from Place Farm house to get the season started. Check out the Gallery on the website for some action pics!

The Club will offer a similar range of matches and competitions this year. The Club has a lot of new and newish members this season and I really do urge them to sign up for the matches, they are great fun and will develop skills.

Our chosen Charity was Parkinsons U.K. Chosen in memory of former member Sylvia Wilkinson. Steve Rayner’s family generously donated a lovely number of bottles of spirits and we decided to raise a bit of extra cash by holding an auction rather than a raffle.  Bids and donations added up to £65.

The suggestion box encouraged Oliver Smyth to make some very useful points about his (and others) needs as a player not currently met. As a result, Committee agreed that I should lead an initiative to arrange for coaching beyond the basic levels ably supplied currently by Kate Johns and David Sanders. County coach Geoff Fitch has met with a steering group from the Club. I am very pleased to say that a 4 session course has been arranged to be held in April. It will be offered to all members free of charge, I will circulate details shortly.

May I wish all Club members a happy and successful 2026 season.

5.   Winter Captain’s Comments 2025-2026 – David Gorman

I would like to thank all members for their support by signing up for the winter friendly matches.  To date we have played 8 matches, winning 2 and losing 6.  Portslade have won the cup by a slim margin of 8 shots.  Please keep a look out for the forthcoming winter matches, as we have another 5 to play.  On 12^th February will be a re-arranged match against The Pirates, in place of the cancelled Popes Mead match.

6.   Update from County Representatives – Kate Johns, Roger Johns

Kate Johns  

It was great to have a good number of entries from women club members in the 2025 
Sussex County competitions.  There was one singles (champion of champions), along with three sets of pairs, three sets of triples, one set of fours, one set of senior fours, two sets of mixed pairs and one set of mixed fours. 

We also entered the Double Rink competition (eight players – one team home, the other away) Top Club (ten players – singles, pairs, triples and fours) and the Gladys Rowland tournament (two teams of four) which were sponsored by our club (the club pay the entry fees

Congratulations to our county triples team who won our area final but unfortunately lost in the county semi-final and similarly, our Top Club players who won our area final but lost the county semi-final.   

Discussions at the Executive Meetings with county delegates led to a change in the 
awarding of points in the mixed pairs competition which was introduced in 2024. As the 
men are awarded points towards their badge it was proposed and approved that the 
women should be given points as well and this will be backdated to 2024. At present six points are required for a county badge but this may be increased to nine to align with the men. 

Entries to the mixed pairs and mixed fours must be made by a male member of the team. 

The County Women’s website is being improved to hold more information.  Entries into the 2026 county competitions can be made via the County Women’s website’s competition portal until 31 January.  The cost for each individual taking part is £6.05. At present, we have entries for the singles (champion of champions), pairs, triples, fours, senior fours, Gladys Rowland, Double Rink and Top Club.  

The closing date for entries into the National competitions via the Bowls England website is 1st March.  

Thank you everyone who supported and/or took part in the county competitions last year and good luck to all those entering county competitions this year.  

Roger Johns

The county comps were not hugely successful for the men’s section in 2025 and this could have been partly due to there being no Area VPs in our area (area 3, as we were unable to find anyone prepared to take on the position as area controller).  

However, this coming season there will be VPs in area 3 and this does enable those players who wish to play at a higher standard to experience different grass greens throughout the County and will lead to a better performance when entering County Competitions. 

The entry forms for VPs has been posted for those who wish to enter (but late entries will be accepted and forms are available (see me). Cost will be £2 for the season and a list of players will be included on the annual return. 

As a club we will enter the Abergavenny (double 4s) but other individual and team comps will be left up to members to enter and form their own teams. Senior 4s has been a good comp in the past and now there are mixed comps (pairs + 4s) this can produce some good results, 

Closing date for County Comps is 31/1/26, National Competitions close on 28/2

7.   Update from the committee – Susan Gorman

I would like to thank the committee for all their hard work over the last year.  Various tasks have been worked on, for the benefit of all members.  I am sure you will all agree that the balcony is looking great.  Decoration and new double-glazed windows downstairs are next to be done.  The grounds continue to be looked after, but more participation from members would be appreciated.  You will notice that many committee members have more than one role so we would very much appreciate members taking a more active role in the running of the club. 

The Match Secretary’s (Jane Cummings) work can be a challenge, as we have many matches in June – which coincides with County games starting – so lots of negotiating takes place.  As the winter season grows, this task will increase.

BHCC have decided not to continue to allow us to purchase parking permits, as it contravenes the rules.  So, we will be asking those of you who live nearby to purchase some visitor permits for our matches once our current stock runs out.

8.   Company Secretary’s Report 2025 – Andrew Dixon

The sale of the land that the club owned (half of each of the gardens in Eaton Grove) has been completed.  However, the club still own one half of the garden of number 12.  It is hoped that the new owner will purchase it within the next couple of months, at a price of 10K plus all costs.  It will stay in the land bank of the club until a formal agreement regarding a sale has been reached.

9.    Treasurer’s Report for the year ending 31^st October 2025 - David Sanders

This report outlines the club’s financial performance and significant developments for the year ending 31 October 2025

Income - There has been little change in our income over the past few years. The club continues to generate revenue from a variety of sources, with approximately half our income coming from activities such as social events, bar takings, tea sales, The Saturday League, Aussie Pairs, Club Draw, etc.

Expenditure - In contrast to our relatively stable income, our outgoings have seen a notable increase. The cost of goods and services, ranging from basic necessities like teabags to utilities such as electricity and water, have risen significantly. Additionally, we are facing a new expense this year in the form of bank charges.

Volunteers - The success of these income-generating activities is due to a large part to the dedication of our volunteers. Without their ongoing support and commitment, our club would not be able to operate as it does. We extend our sincere gratitude to all those who give their time and effort to our club.

Premises - A substantial amount of money has been invested in maintaining and improving our premises. Notably, nearly £44,000 was spent on our impressive new balcony. We have also spent nearly £5,000 on tree felling around the club grounds. Looking ahead, we are looking at plans to replace the doors and windows on the ground floor with new UPVC fittings, followed by redecoration of both the downstairs area and the exterior of the building. All expenditures are carefully considered, ensuring that the best possible value is obtained for our members. We also continue to set aside £5000 a year towards the cost of replacing our green when the time comes.

Subscriptions - The committee is proposing an increase in annual subscriptions by £10. This will be the first rise since 2020, aside from adjustments made when green fees were included in the membership.

Acknowledgements - I wish to thank Mark Ireland for his work in auditing the club’s accounts.

At the meeting David acknowledged the money raised by the social events and the Saturday morning league.  He thanked all those who helped.

10. Confirmation of the membership fee for February 2025/2026 (see treasurers report)

It is agreed that it be £185, inclusive of all match fees and locker hire.  It is payable by the end of February 2025.  New members pay £20 for the kit (worth at least £60).

11. Update from The Brighton and Hove District League Representative – Derek Budde

Matches are played on Tuesday evenings from the beginning of May until the middle of August.  Each match consists of 3 rinks (12 players).  There is often food provided by the home club.  Last season we played 12 matches, winning 6.  We finished 4^th in the league table and we aim to win each match.

In April, any man wishing to play on a Tuesday evening (ideal for those working) can put their name on the list that will be on the notice board in the men’s changing room.

12. Update from the Ladies League Representative – Carol Rushton

The women bowlers of The Drive BC had a successful and enjoyable season playing in the league.  For a couple of weeks we actually topped the league but after completion of all matches we settled right in the middle, placed 4^th out of 7 participating clubs. A worthy conclusion to the season.  This league is aimed at all women bowlers so that new bowlers particularly can experience competitive bowling in a pleasant format. I’m very pleased to report that 17 of our 29 women bowlers played at least 1 match during the 2025 season.  Thank you all for your enthusiasm and support and I’m looking forward to our 2026 season in the league. 

13. Update from the Hove League Representative – David Sanders

Overview - This last year was our 6^th year competing in the Hove League. For the first  time, we did not progress to the play-offs, although we only narrowly missed out on qualification.

Competition Format - The fixtures list for the upcoming season is determined in November, when the clubs to be played are drawn. Each team is made up of nine players, with a minimum requirement of two ladies, although we usually field three. The match formats consist of a pairs, a triples and a fours. Players are drawn for their respected formats immediately before the match begins. Our club generally participates in the second half of the season, after all county and league competitions have concluded.

Experience - Participation in the Hove League is always enjoyable. However, it is important to note that the format may not suit everyone and wea re in it to win it.

Thank you.  A very big thank you to all who took part last season and look forward to getting to the play-offs this year.

14. Update from The Nicolas Soames League Representative – Steve Rayner

A lot of you already know about the Nicholas Soames Trophy and some have played for which I thank you. I think/hope we enjoyed ourselves in the main but there were a few tough matches this year, which are obviously going to happen, but that we also learned from in a different way.

I’d like to take this opportunity to remind some of the existing members and, also to explain to our newer ones, what this competition offers. This might be a good time to mention that last year we topped our league and finished mid table this past year, so we have a good history within the competition.

There are currently 20 teams which are divided into 4 regional leagues with the winners of each league going through to the semi-finals and the 2 winners progressing to the final. 

The format is the same as the Ausie Pairs that we play on Friday afternoons but there are 3 teams or pairs involving 3 male and 3 female players per team. 

We play 8 matches, 4 home and 4 away which gives us the opportunity to practice and enjoy the experience of playing on grass. If I’m correct, this years’ summer captain Bill Heron played his first game on grass as part of this competition and cleared any doubts he had about this ‘horrible’ ‘weird’ surface.

Matches are played on Monday evenings at 6pm over 18 ends which means that those that work for a living…will have the opportunity to play in a competitive league as well as club friendlies. 

The format also allows people to experience how to play both lead as well as ‘skip’ roles 

Lifts are available for away matches and there is normally food afterwards.

The main target players are those who prefer the smaller league format as well as those newer members who haven’t played many competitive matches for the club.

I’ve already had some interest from some of the newer members but welcome anyone who wants to give it a go. Please grab me at any time if you want to go through things further.

15. To discuss any propositions sent to the secretary – Susan Gorman

Proposition 1

Alter the club rules to include R9 from BE (see attached information)

Proposed by The Committee

Proposition 2

Adopt the Sussex and BE Code of Conduct (see attached information)

Proposed by The Committee

Proposition 3

Add the position of Complaints Assessor to the Officers of the club.  They only need to attend meeting to give updates.

Proposed by The Committee

All of these were agreed by the meeting.

16. Nomination for Officer Posts below and to vote where necessary to agree final list. 

PRESIDENT – Kathy Dixon

CLUB SECRETARY – Susan Gorman

TREASURER – David Sanders

MATCH SECRETARY – Jane Cumming

CAPTAINS:

SUMMER – Bill Heron          WINTER – David Gorman

CAPTAINCY TEAM – Sue Newton, Martin Sugarman, Steve Rayner

INTERNAL COMPETITION SECRETARY – Mark Ireland

MAINTENANC E MANAGER/S – Derek Budde

GREEN KEEPER/S – Meirion Rice

TEA/CLEANING ROTAS – Lesley Heanen

BAR MANAGER/S – Marie Morgan

SOCIAL MANAGER – Marjorie Goodfellow, Wendy Eltze

WEBMASTER – Steve Pope

COUNTY DELEGATES:

MEN - Roger Johns             WOMEN - Kate Johns

BRIGHTON AND HOVE DISTRICT LEAGUES:

MEN - Derek Budde            WOMEN - Carol Rushton

NICHOLAS SOAMES LEAGUE – Steve Rayner

HOVE LEAGUE – David Sanders

WINTER SATURDAY MORNING LEAGUE – David Sandes

SAFEGUARDING OFFICER – Susan Gorman

COMPAINTS ASSESSOR (new post) – Anne Claxton

SECRETARTY TO THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB LIMITED – this post is no longer required as the company has been dissolved.

17. Club Coaches were confirmed.

Kate Johns, David Sanders

18. Roll Ups and Functions/Events

Marjorie Goodfllow said that it had been a successful year, with events being held monthly.  She asked for suggestion and ideas for any future events.  All were reminded about the Bali Brasserie lunch in February, ore raffle prizes are needed.

19. AOB

Sponsorship – Steve Rayner spoke about the need for sponsorship and asked everyone to talk to contractors/pubs/restaurant/shops to try to get them to sponsor a banner/our shirt.  David Sanders said that he and Derek are talking to Donington’s (plumbers) are possible shirt sponsorship.  He also said that once the new website is up and running we could maybe have a sponsor page.

It was agreed that Chris Heath would continue to be in charge of our current website until the new one is up and running.

Kathy reminded to check the website for information, especially Match Steward Duties (when playing on Rink One at home) and the Tea/Cleaning Rotas.  It is expected that everyone takes part.  If you cannot make you allotted day/time then it is up to you to find a swop/replacement.

There were 34 members present.

The next AGM will be on 19^th January 2027.

The meeting closed at 11:55.

Introducing the Updated Regulation 9 (R9) and model Code of Conduct

1st December, 2025

Bowls England has today (Monday 1st December) released an update of Regulation 9 (R9) after four years of work undertaken by the Disciplinary Working Party to make the process clearer, fairer and easier to use for our membership.  

Key changes include introducing an informal process for low level complaints, simplifying the language used, and creating practical resources such as workflows, guidance, training and FAQs. 

R9 applies a proportionate approach to addressing misconduct: 

·                     Informal process for minor misconduct 

·                     Mediation for moderate misconduct or repeated minor issues 

·                     Formal hearing for serious misconduct or failed mediation 

These improvements ensure consistency, transparency, and support for everyone involved. 

All Affiliated Clubs and County Associations must reference Regulation 9 in their governing documents as the route to address complaints of misconduct.  

From 1st December, all new complaints must follow this updated version of R9. Any cases already in progress under the previous Regulation 9 should continue under that version until completion.  

Sussex County Bowls CODE OF CONDUCT Issued November 2025

CODE OF CONDUCT for SUSSEX COUNTY BOWLS - including all Officers, Appointees, Members and Affiliated Clubs 

Sussex County Bowls is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all its members, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience for all. The County believes that it is important that members, coaches, administrators and parents associated with the County should, at all times, show respect and understanding for the safety and welfare of others. Therefore, members are encouraged to be open at all times and to share any concerns or complaints that they may have about any aspect with Club or County Safeguarding Officer. 

All members have a right to; 

* Be treated equitably and with respect; 

* Participate in an environment free from all forms of harassment and discrimination; * Have their privacy and confidentiality treated lawfully and with respect; 

* Submit their view to Sussex County Bowls Executive in line with the counites governance procedures and policies. 

General Code of Conduct 

As a Sussex County Bowls or Club Officer - or member - you should at all times; 

* Treat everyone with respect, courtesy and without harassment. All members must respect the rights, dignity and worth of all other members regardless of age, gender reassignment, disability, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. 

* Participate in the right spirit – the sport should be fun for all; 

* Take reasonable measures to keep yourself and others safe; 

* Promote the sport in the best possible light through your actions and behaviour;

* Abide by the policies of the sport and Bowls England and Sussex County Bowls;

* Abide by the rules/regulations and etiquette of the sport, and any additional competition rules;

* Refrain from behaviours that could offend or embarrass others; 

Use Sussex County Bowls resources in an appropriate manner; 

* Maintain appropriate confidentially about dealings that any person has with Sussex County Bowls;

* Comply with any lawful and reasonable direction or request given by someone who has authority to give the direction or issue the request; 

* Not provide false or misleading information in response to a request for information that is made for official purposes in connection with Sussex County Bowls. 

* Speak to someone if you are concerned that any of this code is being broken. 

You should not:

* Show dissent towards officials and their decisions; 

* Discriminate on any grounds against another person; 

* Publicly criticise or engage in demeaning descriptions of others, including online;

* Use obscene, offensive language or gestures or behave in a disorderly manner;

* Engage in any behaviour that constitutes abuse; 

* Use any information that is held by you, especially members personal details and email addresses -  other than for a legitimate purpose. 

* Circulate any personal emails, to people other than to officers required to see them;  

* Keep your concerns about abuse or poor practice secret.  

Code of Conduct for Players 

All players have a responsibility to maintain the highest standards in their enjoyment of this sport of Bowls. They should: 

* Be punctual for games; 

* Accept success and failure, victory, and defeat, with dignity; 

* Respect the spirit of fair play whilst bowling. This is more than playing within the rules. It also incorporates the concepts of friendship, and respect for umpires, officials, coaches, players, juniors, and spectators.  

* Recognise good play by team mates and opponents; 

* Set a positive example for others, particularly for young players and spectators;

* Not drink alcohol on the green or within one metre of the green, nor render yourself unfit to play in a match through alcohol misuse; 

* Not smoke on the green or within one metre of the green (including electronic devices).

* Adhere to the Anti-Doping policies as set by UK Anti-Doping; 

* Protect others involved in the game from verbal or physical abuse and threatening or intimidating behaviour; 

* Never use inappropriate language or gestures on or off the green. Never use foul, sexist, abusive, racist or any other prejudicial language or tolerate it from fellow players and/or team officials; 

* Promote the reputation of the sport and take all possible steps to prevent the sport, Sussex County Bowls or your Club from being brought into disrepute.  

* Abide by the accepted etiquette of the Sport. 

Code of Conduct for Young Players (Under 18's) 

If you are a young player you should: 

* Always play fairly and apply bowls’ standards both on and off the rink;

* Treat others as you would wish to be treated. 

* Respect all advice that you are given; 

* Always report anything which worries you to a responsible adult e.g. a Club Safeguarding Officer. Speak out if you consider that you or others are being poorly treated. 

* Always tell someone if you are leaving a venue or competition. 

Code of Conduct for Spectators including Parents and Carers 

The sport of bowls welcomes spectators and values the part parents and carers play in supporting and encouraging the participation of children and adults at risk. As a spectator you should: 

* Remember that bowls is fun; 

* Applaud effort and good play as well as success. 

* Appreciate good play by the opposition; 

* Encourage all players to respect the opposition, coaches, umpires and other bowls’ officials; 

* Offer encouragement at all times; 

* Leave the coach to communicate with individual players; 

* Show an appreciation of all volunteers and their efforts.  

Code of Conduct for Coaches 

As a coach in bowls you are in a position of trust and have a central role in promoting and developing the sport at all levels. You should:  

Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person.; 

Help create an environment where all children and adults at risk have an equal opportunity to participate; 

Help create and maintain an environment free of fear and harassment; 

Recognise the rights of parents, children and adults at risk to confer with other coaches; 

Develop relationships with parents, children and adults at risk based on openness, honesty, mutual trust and respect; 

Do not condone or allow to go unchallenged any form of discrimination or prejudice;

Be aware of the physical limits of children and adults at risk and ensure that training is appropriate

Ensure that physical contact is appropriate and necessary and is carried out within recommended guidelines 

Always work in an open environment (e.g. avoid private or unobserved situations); Do not engage in any form of sexually-related contact with children or adults at risk. Sexual innuendo, flirting or inappropriate gestures and terms are also unacceptable. Do not have a sexual relationship with someone under the age of 18 who you are coaching;

Report any concerns you may have in relation to a child or an adult at risk or the behaviour of an adult, to the most appropriate person; 

Always emphasise that the well-being and safety of the child or adult at risk is more important than the development of performance; 

Do not smoke, or drink alcohol, while actively working with children or adults at risk. Never use recreational or performance-enhancing drugs; 

Attend appropriate training to enable you to keep up-to-date with your role and matters relating to the safeguarding of children and adults at risk; 

Hold “Coach Bowls” membership and relevant qualifications; 

Ensure necessary insurance cover is in place for you to perform your coaching role. 

Code of Conduct for Players in all County Representative matches.

All player selected to play in County or Presidential matches are required to:* Make a note of the Contact number for the Match Official, for use if a problem ON THE DAY. Any problems - or expected later arrival - MUST BE phoned to one of the two contact numbers on the team sheet; 

Confirm their continued availability to their selector and if after confirming their availability as required – if they subsequently become unavailable for ANY reason they MUST at the earliest possible opportunity NOTIFY THEIR SELECTOR. It is expected and would be courteous if - as several players indeed do - a basic reason for the withdrawal is given; 

Submit any requests for any Guest or Dietary Meals at least seven days prior the fixture and cannot be guaranteed, if such notice is not given. Guest meals will be at the meal cost as charge by the host Club; 

* A bowler shall, at all times, conduct himself in a manner that reflects favourably upon fellow bowlers and Sussex County Bowls, both on and off the Bowling Green; 

 Page 3 of 4 Pages Prepared by Rod McBeth 17/11/2025 19:32 

 Sussex County Bowls CODE OF CONDUCT Issued November 2025 

* Report punctually at the prescribed time and place, in accordance with the issued team sheet or as agreed with the team manager/Match Official; 

* Comply with the County’s dress code and other requirements stated on the team sheet; * Know and comply with the Bowls England Anti-Doping rules, policies & practices that apply to your level of bowling/competition. Not use or possess any prohibited substance or prohibited method without a valid and justifiable reason. If in doubt check. Further guidance can be found at 

* Demonstrate respect to colleagues, opponents and officials and not subject them to any form of physical or verbal abuse at any time; 

* Adhere to Bowls England social media Policy (please refer to Bowls England website). The following are strictly prohibited: 

* Smokin on the green or within one metre of the green (including electronic devices); * The consumption of alcohol on the bowling green; 

* The use of mobile phones on the green during play. 

The following are guidelines regarding Social Media activity:  

* You must not post information or make comments likely to bring the County into disrepute or which are derogatory or disrespectful in any way to the County or its officials;  * Comments should not be speculative or have an actual or negative impact on the County’s reputation or cause embarrassment to the County, its Officers and players or be intended to do the same or be posted without proper regard to the potential harm;  

* It is forbidden to post any pictures or statements that may embarrass other members, players or officials representing the County.  

Any breaches of obligations may result in: 

* your removal from the team and replaced by a travelling reserve;  

* de-selection for any future fixture(s).  

Breaches of the Code of Conduct – Reporting and Resolution 

* Sussex County Bowls, through its Management Committee, reserves the right to make decisions and enforce fair and reasonable measures following a breach of the Code of Conduct; 

* Any breach of the Code of Conduct must be reported to Sussex County Bowls who will fully investigate the matter in a calm, honest and dignified manner in accordance with the rules of Bowls England. Confidentiality must be maintained by all involved. 

MINUTES OF THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB COMMITTEE MEETING

HELD AT CLUBHOUSE ON ?? October at 10AM

CLUB DRAW WINNERS: Derek Budde, Colin Bryant, Jaane Cummings

1.        APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND ATTENDEES

Apologies – Kate Johns, David Sanders, Martin Sugarman, Derek Budde, Carol Rushton,

Attendees – Kathy Dixon, Sue Newton, Marjorie Goodfellow, Jane Cummings, David Gorman, Susan Gorman, Bill Heron, Mark Ireland, Steve Rayner, Roger Johns

2.       MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

These were agreed as a true record.

3.       MATTERS ARISING

BH reported that Oliver Smyth suggested that the Club provide an opportunity to improve his skills and knowledge of bowls. 

The Committee asked me to explore the options available for providing coaching for players who were beyond basic level coaching.

Kate Johns put me in touch with County Coach Geoff Fitch. I explained to Geoff what the issues are and have discussed with him and some Club Members, including Oliver, possible approaches.

In this email below, is Geoff’s description of what and how Geoff could deliver more advanced than basic coaching. There is also my email of the 29 August with his annotated responses to queries I had.

Geoff makes no charge for his coaching; it would be free to the Club but he would like the Club to pay him petrol money since he lives in Eastbourne. 

So, before these ideas are developed, Committee needs to decide if it is in favour generally of such coaching.

Then the outstanding matters would include:

Whether Committee would like a discussion session included with respected senior members of the Club taking an active part?

Should the coaching be on a single day or spread over say, 2 days?

When should the course take place? Springtime? At weekend/s?

Should a charge be made?

At some point it will be essential to canvass the support to be expected from the Club. I would be happy to send an email to all Club members in due course.

It was agreed that BH would continue to pursue this, with the support of the committee and that weekend x2/3 in March would be an ideal time.

4.       TREASURSER’S REPORT (David Sanders)

DS sent an email stating we have £1500 in the Current Account and £88,000+ in the Savings Account.  Lots of big bills have been paid out (to the contractors and manufacturer of the balcony).  He asked that we agree that cheques will be accepted for amounts of £50+ and this was accepted (DS to email all members informing them).

5.       CLUB SUMMER CAPTAIN’S REPORT (Bill Heron)

BH reported that there had been 12 games, since our last meeting (9 away, 3 home).  Worthing cancelled and 3 were rained off.  BH said that he had enjoyed his time as Captain.  KD proposed that many thanks be given to BH for all his hard work and this was agreed by all.

6.       CLUB WINTER CAPTAIN’S REPORT (David Gorman)

DG reported that 2 games had been played, we lost 1 and won 1, and the results are on the website.  The postponed Portslade games will now be played on 26^th November.  Members have been signing up really well.

7.       UPDATE ON FIXTURES (Jane Cummings)

JC reported that she has been working on the fixtures, she was reminded that we wish to move some of the May/June games to later in the season and this she will try to do.  Saltdean have requested that we move the away game at their place, due to a bike ride.  It was agreed that we would try to avoid the major events, e.g. Pride, Preston Tournament, Bike rides.

8.       GENERAL UPDATE ON BAR/BUILDING/GARDEN WORKS (Derek Budde)

The committee were unsure about the current spend on the balcony, and the expected total cost.  There is some delay regarding the flooring but the committee have not been consulted.

Meirion has been doing a good job on the south border and Peter and David Dixon have been working on the north border.  It was agreed to ask Meirion to remove the branches that overhang our property from the tree in the corner by the post office.

9.       COUNTY MATTERS (Kate Johns and Roger Johns)

KJ reported: I attended the Executive Meeting at Adur on 10 Sept.

Two propositions were discussed and will now go forward to the AGM on 5 November for voting, which I will attend.

1.      That county points are awarded in the mixed pairs competition.  Although it was agreed at the Officers Meeting with the men prior to the competition's inclusion that points would not be awarded to men or women, the men then went ahead and points to the men.  There were arguments from Delegates for and against inclusion of points for women.

2.    A Recommendation that in the event of a draw between two geographically extreme cubs in east and west Sussex at the quarter final stage, if the two competitors agree, the Challenger can approach a neutral green/club to have the match played there. 

If the Recommendation is approved at the AGM, would the committee like The Drive to be offered as one of the clubs willing to host a county match.  From feedback from some of the The Drive’s County players, it’s thought that it would be unlikely for our club to be approached as we are not grass and if we were, there would be a lot of work involved in making the arrangements.

It was announced that Debbie Juden from Woodingdean does not want to proceed to the Presidency for 2026 (she is currently Senior Vice President).  The Junior VC will be nominated for the Senior V-C role and nominations have been invited for a Junior V-C.  I have informed The Drive’s County Women badged players but no one from The Drive wishes to be nominated.

RJ reported:

10.    LEAGUE MATTERS

Hove (David Sanders): We came second (lost by 3 points) and did not qualify for the final for the first time in 4 years.

BH+D (Carol Rushton): Nothing

BH+D (Derek Budde): We finished 4^th, Hove and Kingsway were promoted and Woodingdean B were demoted

NS (Steve Rayner): Saltdean may pull out as they are concerned about the ‘in it to win it’ of some of the teams.  SR will investigate other leagues open to us e.g. Meridan

11.     UPDATE ON SOCIAL EVENTS (Marjorie Goodfellow or Wendy Eliz)

The Bingo Quiz is this Sunday.  KD will be providing bubbles and canapes to celebrate the balcony works,

12.    SUGGESTION BOX

Empty

13.    AOB

There were 3 new member applications – Jess Meredith, Steve Pope, Neil Costello – which were all accepted.

SG mentioned the lack of JACKS, before purchasing it was agreed to email members.

She also mentioned that she has undertaken R9 training via Bowls England, its all about disciplinary.  Green Stewards document is now on the board and all members were sent copies.  Thanks were given to Steve, Clare, Carol, Lesley and David Goirman for their help during the 2 Ageing Well Festival events.  MI suggested that next year one event should be on a Sunday and this was agreed.

SR mentioned sponsorship, Baked will be removed from our shirts unless its new owners agree to pay.  He has been in touch with Unbarred Brewery.  Discussion about what/how to sponsor took place and big items like benches were another option.

MI asked if anyone knew of an engraver, for the cups, and the one in Market Street was suggested.

RJ reported that Oliver is in hospital after a nasty bike accident.

It was agreed that the Winter sessions were as follows:

Monday (run by Bryan and Kathy) and Wednesday (run by Kingsley and others?) roll ups, 1pm for a 1:30 start.

Friday Aussie Pairs (run by David Sanders), 1pm for a 1:30 start.

Sunday morning practice (run by David Sanders), 10 for 10:30 start – this session is for ALL (including those new to bowling) as coaching is available.

SG to put up lists for Committee Members.

14.    TIME AND DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The meeting closed at 11:50

The next meeting will be on Monday 17^th November followed by Monday 12^th January at 10am and the AGM will be on Tuesday 20^th January at 11am

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AGENDA FOR THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB COMMITTEE MEETING

TO BE HELD AT CLUBHOUSE ON MONDAY 14^TH JULY AT 10AM

CLUB DRAW WINNERS: 53 (Jenny), 59 (Derek), 2 (Wally)

1.        APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND ATTENDEES

Apologies – Kate Johns, Roger Johns, Martin Sugarman, Bill Heron, Jane Cummings, David Sanders

Attendees – Carol Rushton, Marjorie Goodfellow, SUE Newton, Kathy Dixon, Derek Budde, Andrew Dixon, Steve Rayner, Mark Ireland, Susan Gorman, David Gorman

2.       MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

These were agreed as a true record.

3.       MATTERS ARISING

First Aid boxes have been replaced, spare box of bandages placed in store cupboard.  Wendy will be sorting out the boxes.  We will order new stock when required, so will monitor the contents of the boxes.  There is a spare box of bandages (MS to label) in the equipment store.

4.       TREASURSER’S REPORT (David Sanders)

£22,600 in our current a/c, £100,390 in our savings a/c

Spent a very enjoyable morning in Santander in George Street 2 weeks ago, still no further forward.

Paid for our club insurance, they didn’t like our cheque so had to pay by BACS from my personal account then reimburse myself. Insurance was £1069 just £22 up on last year. Good result.

One other thing. 2 years ago, our water bill for this current quarter was £195. This time it’s £358 . That’s a lot of cups of tea.  It wa agreed that ALL water bills have gone up this year and that more watering has probably been happening.

DS reminded the committee that Santander require we confirm the removal of Mrs Janet Mary Coulthard from our bank account, this was unanimously agreed, as she is no longer a club member.

5.       CLUB SUMMER CAPTAIN’S REPORT (Bill Heron)

I am sorry that I am not at the Committee meeting. Family are staying this week and we are out with the grandchild.

Jane and myself will be meeting about next year’ s fixtures and County matches.  However, contrary to the minutes, I have no recollection that we would report back to this July meeting. I agreed with Jane that we would meet after the summer

season had finished when we both had more time and, when the fixtures having been completed, we could have a thorough review. I think that it was clear that the circumstances that caused the difficulty were not going to arise again this season.

The period since the last meeting has been busy but I think that there have been no problems that have not being easily resolved.

It has been a successful period with 8 matches played. 5 wins (2 away) 2 losses and one abandoned when we were winning, due to thunder.

6.       INTERNAL CLUB COMPETITIONS SECRETARY REPORT (Mark Ireland)

Triple day was successful and thanks were given to Roy Holm and Derek Davies for stepping in for players who were sick.  One member found the conditions too difficult and pulled out after the first round so thanks were given to Martin Sugarman for playing instead.  The final will be played on Finals Weekend.

Club Competitions are all up to date.

MI played with Martin and Rosina Sugarman in the Ringmer Triple Day and Won – a cup and £150.  Well done.

7.       UPDATE ON FIXTURES (Jane Cummings)

No news of winter fixtures.

Worthing need to be called to cancel the match on 7^th August, due to balcony works.

The only thing to report is that JC has contacted Crablands following our match with them as their fixture Secretary was interested in having a fixture with us next year. Gill Oliver has replied saying yes to a friendly fixture either in May or September. We will get in touch nearer the time.  It was agreed by the committee that this match would be a home match for us at some time in October, due to the journey (1 hour+ and 40+ miles each way).

As the Hollingbury match this week has been cancelled (as last year), it was agreed that the matches against Hollingbury MUST be moved next season.

The committee also agreed that there are still way too many matches in June (it has more friendlies than any other month) and that next season this MUST be sorted.

The committee requested that fixtures with Hove and Kingways be agreed for next season.

8.       GENERAL UPDATE ON BAR/BUILDING/GARDEN WORKS (Derek Budde)

Including balcony update – the removal of the balcony will start on 7^th August and last about 5 days.  The club will be closed until 5pm every day, SG will email all members.

The gardening work is continuing and the pots were looking lovely, thanks to all involved.

9.       COUNTY MATTERS (Kate Johns and Roger Johns)

KJ reported: County Matches

The first round of the Double Rink competition on 3 July against Crablands was a very close call. Although the away team won their match, the home team lost theirs. The overall score was 34-35.

In the County Triples, The Drive’s team (Kathy Maria and Kate) won the Area Final but in the County semi-final playing Southwick Park on 13 July at Preston with Carol subbing for Kate they lost by just two shots.

The Drive’s Top Cub team has won the Area Semi-final beating Witterings and District at home. Jane beat the Sussex County Champion (Debbs Hogg) in the Singles, and Pauline and Rosina beat the Sussex Indoor Champion (Chris Burke) and partner in the pairs. The next round is the Area Final on 19th July away on the neutral green of Goring Manor in Worthing against Burgess Hill. The winners then play the County Final against either West Hoathly or Polegrove on the neutral green of Woodingdean on 2 August.

In the Gladys Rowland competition, the A team lost in the second round away to Seaford but the B team (Susan, Jane, Rosina and Pauline) won against Portslade in the second round at home and will play Goring Manor at home on 21 July in the next round.

RJ reported: Very little to report.  No men left in county comps.  Mixed comps: both mixed 4s eliminated in 1^st round

Mixed pairs: both pairs, Sanders and Sugarman eliminated in round 2

Edward Rowland: 1 team left in, playing away at Shoreham this week.

10.    LEAGUE MATTERS

Hove (David Sanders): Not started yet, DS will be in touch to confirm players for each match soon

BH+D (Carol Rushton): Top of the league at the moment, but with a minus points difference.  New members are playing in the home matches.  KD was contacted by Hove nd Kingsway and it has been agreed to play 2xTriples friendly on 15^th July at 5pm.

BH+D (Derek Budde): Played 8, won 5.  Second in the league, last match is on 12h August.

NS (Steve Rayner): Bottom of league, 2 home games coming up.  The scores are getting closer.  Still using the games to aid members development as grass players, some new members have played.

11.     UPDATE ON SOCIAL EVENTS (Marjorie Goodfellow or Wendy Eliz)

The Charity Day and Captains V Presidents Day competitions were combined due to a very full programme of games this season.  It was discussed and agreed at a previous committee meeting.  The meeting further discussed and agreed that all money raised would go to the charity, KD will be supplying prizes.  If anyone could not attend the new date but wanted to donate to the charity it waws agreed that SG would email everyone and say that they could donate (via envelope with CHARITY on it) and that the money would be collated with that collected on the day.

SR has some bottles of spirits to donate and had spoken to Bill, who offered to run some kind of auction, in order to raise more money for the charity.

12.    SUGGESTION BOX

Nothing.

Members are reminded to write any queries, suggestions, requests, comments and put them in there for the committee to discuss.

13.    AOB

New member applications: Peter Shimmen, petershimmen@gmail.com, 07572064024

SG reported that David Pager is thinking of running the VP matches and was looking for clubs to host.  The committee agreed that we would.

DS reported that we have been challenged to another quiz at Hollingbury on Saturday the 30^th of August if anyone sitting around the table would like to take part, please let me know ASAP.

Parking vouchers are selling well.

KD reported that Bill has been providing a bottle of wine for a raffle prize for every home fixture, CR said that was normal.  However the committee agreed that the raffle prizes need to be upgraded and include a bottle of wine, KD offered to purchase (with the club footing the bill) and this was agreed.

14.    TIME AND DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The meeting closed at

The next meeting will be on Monday 4^th August at 10am (please note change of date)

These minutes were agreed as a true record at the meeting on 4^th August 2025.

Signed:

Club Winter Captain Mr David John Gorman

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MINUTES OF THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB COMMITTEE MEETING

HELD AT CLUBHOUSE ON MONDAY 12^TH MAY at 10AM 

CLUB DRAW WINNERS: Sue Budde, Andrew Dixon, Kathy Dixon 

1.        APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND ATTENDEES

Apologies – Carol Rushton, Kathy Dixon

Attendees – Derek Budde, Sue Newton, Susan Gorman, Marjorie Goodfellow, Daid Sanders, Bill Heron, Martin Sugarman, David Gorman, Steve Rayner, Kate Johns, Roger John, Jane Cummings, Mark Ireland. 

2.       MINUTES OF LAST MEETING (attached to email)

Agreed as a correct record 

3.       MATTERS ARISING

It was agreed to offer Sundays and Mondays to the Ageing Well Festival.

DS reported that the bank have still not got our accounts sorted, it will be chased. 

4.       TREASURSER’S REPORT (David Sanders)

21K in current account and 100k in saving account 

5.       CLUB WINTER CAPTAIN’S REPORT (David Sanders/David Gorman)

N/A 

6.       CLUB SUMMER CAPTAIN’S REPORT (Bill Heron)

BH reported that 5 matches have been played, a mixture of wins (at home) and loses (away).  The 2:30 start means that matches often do not finish until gone 6 (some complaints about this); some visiting teams have concerns about their parking time running out.  It was agreed that at ALL matches parking voucher purchase would be mentioned.  Thanks were given to the Cptaincy Team. 

7.       INTERNAL CLUB COMPETITIONS SECRETARY REPORT (Mark Ireland)

MI reported that there are 3 weeks between rounds on internal competitions (as requested).  Lista are already up, some competitions have to play the first round by15th June.  Competition entries are up by 11% on last year.  The Roving Jack has 18 entries, MI said that his mum would be very pleased……. 

8.       UPDATE ON FIXTURES (Jane Cummings)

No changes.  Wealden have already contacted regarding the Winter fixture and JC will respond. 

9.       GENERAL UPDATE ON BAR/BUILDING/GARDEN WORKS (Derek Budde)

MR and crew have been busy in the garden, its looking good.  He cleans the green by working around the games in the diary.

DB and DS reported that there has been difficulty in getting a response from the builder, linked to Iron Works, to remove the tiles on the floor (some asbestos present) and to give them (and us) an idea of time frame and works required.  They will chase. 

10.    COUNTY MATTERS (Kate Johns and Roger Johns)

KJ reported: County competitions have started; Top Club will be on 31^st May at 10am

RJ reported: County and National competitions have started.  The dress code HAS to be applied.  Team members must wear identical club kit, but although the colour must be identical for the ‘bottoms’ the style my vary.  If a player is in breach of the dress code then they are given a warning, a second breach will lead to disqualification and not being allowed to enter the following season. 

11.     LEAGUE MATTERS

Hove (David Sanders): the other teams are – Woodingdean, Saltdean and Southwick.  It starts in August.

BH+D (Carol Rushton): all in hand for the first match.

BH+D (Derek Budde): 1 match has been played at Woodingdean and we got 6 points out of 10.  Next match is this coming Tuesday, at home to Lancing.

NS (Steve Rayner): the list for signing is up, and many newbies have signed.  The first match is 26^th May. 

12.    UPDATE ON SOCIAL EVENTS (Marjorie Goodfellow or Wendy Eliz)

MG reported that the Opening of the Summer Season lunch went well, this was agreed by all.   Thanks were given to all those who helped.  After discussion it was agreed that the Roy Holm Cup food would be a buffet style, rather than fish and chips.  It was also agreed to keep the cost as low as possible, but a profit still needs to be made so that the club has enough funds to operate.

DS said that the club relies on money raised through social events and the club draw in order to able to run efficiently, without debt.

13.    SUGGESTION BOX

It was empty. 

14.    AOB

New member applications - it was agreed to accept John Gough as a new member

SG showed the revised Rules and it was agreed to put them on the website, send to members and put in the clubhouse. 

15.    TIME AND DATE OF NEXT MEETING 

The meeting closed at 11:20

The next meeting will be on Monday 9^th June at 10am

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MINUTES OF THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB COMMITTEE MEETINGHELD AT CLUBHOUSE ON MONDAY 10TH MARCH at 10AM

The club draw winners were: Peter Meyrick, Rob Rushton, Bryan Sanders.

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND ATTENDEES 

1.Apologies – Sue Newton, Jane Cummings, Carol Rushton, Marjorie Goodfellow, Martin Sugarman

Attendees –Wendy Eliz (WE), Mark Ireland (MI), Steve Rayner (SR), David Gorman (DG), Bill Heron (BH), Roger Johns (RJ), Kate Johns (KJ), David Sanders (DS), Kathy Dixon (KD), Derek Budde (DB), Meirion Rice (MR) popped in.

2.MINUTES OF LAST MEETING 

These were agreed as a correct record.

3.MATTERS ARISING

The Seaford match on 10th June need to be rearranged (clash with the Ladies League).

MR reported that he is trying to make the surroundings of the green more manageable and interesting.

After discussion about the ‘emptiest’ day to clean the green it was decided that from April onwards clean cleaning would happen on Wednesday mornings, completed by 10:30.

MR reported that the feedback from the trial Twelves game held earlier in the week was successful, although some said that they were tired at the end (so many less ends next time).  MR agreed to look at the fixture list once finalised and that he would arrange matches accordingly, Friday evening were suggested.

4.TREASURSER’S REPORT (David Sanders)

The club has 24K in the current account and 100K in the saving account. 

DS reported that he is having trouble paying for services as he cannot carry out BACS transfer.  The bank are also asking for full details of the committee members.  

It was further agreed that the Treasurer (David Sanders) will have the authority to transfer funds via BACS and he will be a single signatory however, should he not be available then it was agreed that the Mark Ireland and the Secretary (SG) would be joint signatories.

5.CLUB WINTER CAPTAIN’S REPORT (David Sanders/David Gorman)

DS reported that the season is nearly over, we played Shoreham at Adur last week and are playing Adur this week,  There are two more games against Portslade (home and away).

We have three more Saturday League matches.  Next year we hope to have six rinks open (cutting back the trees means that rink 6 is now longer covered in frost all morning), this would mean two more teams could participate.

6.CLUB SUMMER CAPTAIN’S REPORT (Bill Heron)

BH reported that he had received lots of support and tips from previous club Captains and the Captaincy Team. CH has shown him how to access and add to the website, including team selections.

BH checked what his role in the club events was and it was agreed that the events team make posters and put up signing up sheets, whilst he organises the teams (thus organising the bowling aspect of the event).

BH checked about raffle prizes – one per rink per match.  He will give pens for top rink prizes.

BH suggested a welcome email be sent to all members about the summer season, reminding them to sign up etc.  BH will put together an email to send.

Social events calendar will be displayed I the clubhouse.

BH queried the parking vouchers and after discussion it was agreed that SG will distribute vouchers to KD, SR, CR, DB, DS and BH (all who run home matches).  Reminder that the vouchers are valid ALL DAY and we sell them at a discounted price of £4.

BH asked about scorecards and DS said that he would print some off and leave at the clubhouse.

7.INTERNAL CLUB COMPETITIONS SECRETARY REPORT (Mark Ireland)

MI has asked the engraver for a speedy return of the cups.  It was agreed to use the old St Ann’s V the Drive cup be used when needed for competitions.

8.UPDATE ON FIXTURES (Jane Cummings)

We assumed that Janae had checked the games mentioned in the minutes.  There is a clash on 10th June with Ladies League in the morning and a friendly with Seaford in the afternoon, so this needs to be rearranged.

9.GENERAL UPDATE ON BAR/BUILDING/GARDEN WORKS (Derek Budde)

MR reported as above (Matters Arising).

DB reported on the building work for the balcony balustrade.  The up-rights have rotted away so need replacing, whilst the ‘ceiling’ has asbestos and is failing, re-building the whole structure (except the flooring, maybe) looks likely.  DB, DS, AD are overlooking the project.

Tree pruning is happening all this week.

10.COUNTY MATTERS (Kate Johns and Roger Johns)

KJ reported:  Two teams have been entered into the Gladys Rowland (£16 per team) and the first match is 8th June.  Teams will be selected on ability.  The Double Rink (Home and Away) is against Crablands on 3rd July.  Top Club is Home against Arundel on 31st May.  All systems are go.

RJ reported: Two teams have been entered into the Edward Rowland (£16 per team) and teams will be selected on ability.  The men are also entered into the Abergavenny (Home and Away) against Hurstpierpoint on 14th May. 

11.LEAGUE MATTERS 

Hove (David Sanders): First match is at the end of May.  Final play offs are early in May.

Ladies League (Carol Rushton): N/A

BH+D (Derek Budde): Meeting is tonight when teams will be drawn.

NS (Steve Rayner): Leagues are all sorted, starts in May, hopefully new members will take part.  The final play offs are the same weekend as our finals…………………

12.UPDATE ON SOCIAL EVENTS (Marjorie Goodfellow or Wendy Eliz)

WE listed all the events:

21st April – Easter Egg Drive £3 plus £1 spider (KD will supply prizes)

26th April – Opening of the Summer Season £10 plus £1 spider

7th June – Roy Holm Cup £10 (may increase as its fish and chips)

19th July – Captains Charity Day £10 strawberry cream tea and Captain V President format

23rd and 24th August – Finals weekend, with cake sale on 23rd

21st September – cheese and wine

19th October – Bingo Quia

14th December – Christmas Cheer

All are on the fixtures list.

13.SUGGESTION BOX

There was a discussion about the ‘quality’ of the raffle prizes and the fact that we do not always have wine.  It was agreed to change to monetary prizes once our stock was depleted.

Some form of instruction on what to do when you are the first one at the club (and also the last).  DS to send to SG his current list and she will add/check and then email to all members and display at the club.

14.AOB

SG shared the form she needs to complete for BHCC parking permit department.  She will print out a version for those in charge of matches to complete.

DS reported that he had a quote for a new burglar alarm system of £360, with a fob not key.  It was agreed to go ahead.

DS wanted to check if the club still needed POINT OF CONTACT on the fixture card, it was agreed to remove it.

DS emptied the Sussex Heart Charity collection point and sent £140 to the charity.

DB reported that members of the Drive who played in a competition at Adur were runners-up, well done.

15.TIME AND DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The meeting closed at 11:50

The next meeting will be on 14th April at 10am

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

These minutes are in draft form only and have yet to be ratified at the next AGM on 20th January 2026

MINUTES OF THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB AGM

HELD ON TUESDAY 21ST JANUARY 2025 at 11.00

1.Apologies for Absence were received from:

Kate Johns, Roger Johns, Bernie Banks, Chris Heath, Jan Heath, Bryan Sanders, Sue Shuker, Lesley Heanen, Kevin Heanen

There were 38 members present in the room.

2.A minute’s silence was held to honour the passing of Sylvia Wilkinson.

3.The minutes of meeting held on 16/1/2024 were agreed as a true record.

4.There were no matters arising from the 2024 AGM.

5.President’s Report 2024 – Derek Budde

For the last 6 years, I have had the honour and privilege of being the President of The Drive Bowling Club, during this time there have been a number of improvements at the club.

There was a new shed, for the gardening equipment, the bowling equipment and a new changing room for the ladies.  Also, there has been new fencing installed on the south and east side of the green allow the removal of the electric fencing giving more access to the green.

In the clubhouse, the old tea bar and the main bar were removed and a new kitchen and bar installed along with new ceiling and lighting.

Not forgetting in 2020 we had to work with Covid regulations.

And in 2025 there is going to be a new balcony balustrade installed. 

Thanks need to be given to the club Secretary, Susan Gorman, the club Treasurer and Winter captain David Sanders and the club captain Carol Rushton along with thanks to the remaining committee for giving up their time and commitment throughout the year.

Thanks were given to Derek for all his hard work.

6.Summer (April – September) Captain’s Comments 2024 – Carol Rushton

I’m delighted to present my report to the members of the Drive Bowling Club for the Summer Season 2024.  Having been Vice-Captain in 2023, I was honoured to be the Club Captain 2024 for the summer months.

You might like to know how well we performed overall in the friendlies this summer and what tremendous results we did achieve. As you know, all the friendly matches on our fixture card are just that – friendly – with the results not having any more importance beyond having a satisfying afternoon of bowling against other local clubs.  But, bowls is a competitive sport with a winner, a loser and a result at the end, and I think it is good to summarise how we did overall just for the record. We can congratulate ourselves on having some outstanding results against some well-respected opposition who were at times rather surprised about our quality of play and breadth of bowls knowledge and ability. So, here are the stats: -

Total of 40 matches (18 April 2024 to 26 September 2024). This is a match on average every 4 days.

12 matches were Cancelled: (4 for rain, 7 by the opposition not fulfilling the fixture and 1 by us unable to round up a team) leaving 28 matches played.

Won = 19; Drawn = 1; Lost = 8 (3 of which were only by 5 shots or fewer)

This represents an overall success rate of 68%.

Shots for = 1004; Shots against = 904. Difference of +100

You may also like to know that 51 (of the 67 members) regularly joined in.

I must thank you all for signing up, turning up and playing with masses of enthusiasm and spirit. Thank you to all the tea makers, the car drivers, those who swept up and set up the rinks and cleared up at the end, those who were willing reserves, those who were called up at the last minute to play and everyone who has participated or assisted in some way to make a match take place.

Thank you for all the laughs we had in the car journeys (or was that just in ours?), the map readers (Kate – for getting us back home from Bognor with Google Maps on my phone), And, of course, to those who equipped and ran the bar.

We had 3 social Club Drives during the summer – The Roy Holm Trophy, The Charity Day (supporting Wellbeing of Women) and the President V Captain match. All were great fun and enjoyed by all.

Thank you to the Catering Team for arranging refreshments for these events as well as for the Opening of the Green, the Finals Weekend and the several other social events during the summer.

We are so fortunate, that all of us bowlers in our age group, are playing a sport that gives us so much enjoyment with all the added benefits and advantages of socialising with one another, being outdoors, providing exercise and creating a purpose to look forward to the dates when we have a match to play.

Lots of us have played much more sweaty and vigorous sports in our younger days and now, with dodgy knees notwithstanding, we are all giving ourselves an absolute treat by being bowlers of The Drive Bowling Club.

My thanks must go to Sue Newton and Steve Rayner for their support in the Captaincy team, and to other club members who have been captains in the past who offered help and advice when needed. This all helped bring everything together on match days.

Also, my thanks to our club committee members for your support to ensure that we all have the opportunity to take part in bowling with or for the club in friendlies, leagues and various competitions, as well as rollups and casual get-togethers.

Thanks were given to Carol for all her hard work.

7.Winter (October – March) Captain’s Comments 2023-2024 – David Sanders

Winter Friendlies are now a big part of our club with several clubs coming to us for a fun friendly, especially the now annual Christmas match against The Pirates. We have home and away matches with Portslade, both early and late in the season, plus home and away matches with Popes Mead and 5 indoor matches.

The Winter Saturday Triples League continues to be a big part of the Winter with Hollingbury and The Drivers sharing the Ireland Cup for last season finishing in March.  A total of 10 teams take part.

The new season of The Fraser Cup (Aussie Pairs) competition has got off to a great start. You can now track your progress (list on the noticeboard) once you have completed 10 sessions.

Thank you to all those who have supported me this last year.

Thanks were given to David for all his hard work.

8.Update from County Representatives – Kate Johns, Roger Johns

Women’s County Delegate Report for 2024

The Sussex County Bowls President for 2025 is Marilyn Doust from Gildredge Park.  There are now eight badged women Sussex County players from The Drive seven of whom represented Sussex in various county matches during the 2024 season.  There are also another six women who have gained points towards their county badge. It’s a great achievement that of the 28 women members of The Drive almost

half of them are playing either in County matches or County competitions or both.

Although none of the women either in county singles or team competitions reached a final this year, there were good wins and narrow defeats along the way. We also represented The Drive in the County Top Club competition, Double Rink and entered two teams in the Gladys Rowland competition.

Two new county competitions were introduced in 2024 – Mixed Pairs and Mixed Fours. Neither of these competitions are awarded county points but it is an opportunity to play against players from Sussex clubs that we don’t usually meet.

Entries for the 2025 County competitions are now being accepted via the Sussex

County Women’s Bowls website. Closing date is 31 January.

Derek congratulated all ladies who had received their County Badge this year.

Men’s County Delegate Report for 2024

The men achieved their best result in the Senior 4s by reaching the County Semi-final losing

to White Rock. Team: Derek Budde, David Sanders, Colin Bryant and Mark Ireland.

In the Men’s Triples we reached the area final (Derek Budde, David Sanders and Mark

Ireland) losing to Hove and Kingsway.

Entries for the 2025 County competitions closes on 31 January.

9.Update from the committee – Susan Gorman

The committee continues to meet every month to ensure the smooth and successful running of your club.  This year has seen the council agree to sell us parking permits, which we are permitted to sell on to others, to enable them to park in residents’ bays.  This is a trial for a year and we are keeping a tally of every voucher purchased from us.  We have also been pressuring the council to alter the parking meter outside the club to a pay by card machine

Each member of the committee has a specific role (or roles) to play, and I am sure that some of those who run the various leagues would like to say a few words about their league in order to encourage more of you to take an active part.  I’ll ask Steve to start………

Steve - Nicholas Soames is for a mix of experienced and new players.  A team is 6 people (3xmen, 3xwomen) and it is played in an Aussie Pairs format.  It is a chance to play in a competitive game, often on grass.  It is played on Mondays at 6pm (lifts are arranged) and there are 6 games in total.

Please contact Steve or sign up if you are interested.

Carol – The Brighton and Hove District Ladies League is formed of 7 local clubs and we play 12 matches (6xhome, 6xaway).  It is played on Tuesday morning and a team consists of 6 players, 2 triples.  Only 2 badged players may play.  The first match is Tuesday 3rd June at Southwick Park.  Please sign up for the matches on the board in the main ladies’ changing room.

Derek – The Brighton and Hove District Men’s Bowling League is played on a Tuesday evening at 6pm, home and away from May until the end of July played on three rinks therefore 12 players are required for each match.  Last year we finished runners up in division 2 but for the coming season there maybe changes as 2 clubs have closed therefore the leagues may be different.  Any male player that wishes to bowl in the league needs to add their name to the list that is in the men’s changing room.

David – The Hove League is a pair, a triple and a rink team with players drawn just before the match to see who plays where.  It is normally played in the second half of the season.  This is our fourth year in the competition and we have gotten to the play-offs every year.  Last year we were beaten in the final at Hollingbury by Rottingdean.  The semi-final and final are played early in the following year at Hollingdean, at the beginning of the season when the green is very heavy, putting us at a distinct disadvantage.  Thanks to Simon who helped and all those who took part.

10.Company Secretary’s Report 2024 – Andrew Dixon

It was reported that The Directors of the Drive Bowling Club Limited have carried out a number of property transactions over the last 18 months in relation to the gardens that TDBC own in Eaton Grove. 

Garden Licensing fees had been collected from the properties in Eaton Grove for a number of years but the new owner of numbers 4+6  wanted to buy the gardens.

We have sold gardens 2+2A+4+6+8 for 18K each, garden 10 for 15K.  Most of the transactions included the purchasers covering all our costs. Had all been sold on a leasehold basis of 999years, with restrictions (e.g. not putting up greenhouses/sheds and keeping the fence in good order).

The club has therefore got 87K in its bank account.

TDBC still owns half of the garden of number 12 (owner refuses to pay the garden leasing fee and did not respond to correspondence regarding the purchase).  It will make it difficult to sell, as the owner only owns half a garden.

The Drive Bowling Club Limited will now be dissolved, should happen within the next 6 weeks.

Thanks were given to Andrew for his expertise and hard work in dealing with this matter.

11.Treasurer’s Report for the year ending 31st October 2023 – David Sanders

The figures are very similar to last year. Income from The Saturday League was good considering the weather last winter and income, from Aussie Pairs holding its own.

Social and bar takings did well thanks to Kathy and her team, and Marie for her work keeping the bar well stocked.  Another well supported finals weekend helped income with plenty of support from friends and family.

The committee propose that next year Subscriptions will remain at £175 which will be inclusive of all Match Fees. The only exception will be Saturday Morning League, Aussie Pairs, competitions, and any fund-raising events. Incorporating match fees into our subscriptions has worked extremely well.  

Our new Friend of The Drive Bowling Club membership worked well for non-members wishing to support the club.  The cost of this membership is by donation with no bowling rights. 

We have spent money on taking the electric fence away on the South side, making the path wider and new fencing.  This has made a big improvement.  This coming year we will be spending money on the balcony and replacing the existing balustrade with a smart new modern one.  We also have several trees that need attention.

Many thanks to Mark Ireland for auditing the books.

Our Sponsors - Please use our sponsors if you can. They are very generous to our club.

Place Farm House: Quality care whether for respite or longer care.

Bungard: Independent Family run Funeral Directors.

Pete & Bernie: Local friendly Painters & Decorators.

Baked: in Church Road for excellent breakfast, brunch and lunch.

A1 Car Search: RAC Approved dealer status giving customers amazing peace of mind.

We are always looking for new sponsors to place a banner within the club boundaries.

12.Confirmation of the membership fee for February 2024/2025 (see treasurers report)

It was agreed that it be £175, inclusive of all match fees and is payable by the end of February 2025.  New members pay £20 for the kit (worth at least £60).

David mentioned that the Aussie Pairs Friday competition fees were collected and used to purchase something that the club wanted, previously the money was used to purchase the drink coolers in the bar area.

Mark Ireland

Thanks were given to David for all his hard work.

13.To discuss any propositions sent to the secretary

None have been received from club members.

Proposed and seconded by the Committee - That the club revise its committee structure by removing the roles of Vice-captain and Junior Vice-captain and replacing them both with a Captaincy Support Team.  The team would support both the summer and winter Captains, so their term of office will run throughout the year.

This proposal was agreed by the meeting and thus the roles of captain and Junior Vice-captain will be removed from the officer posts and be replaced by Captaincy Team roles.

14.It was agreed that the following club members be club officers for the forthcoming year.   If any club members feels that they would like to assist in any way please speak to any officer.

PRESIDENT – Kathy Dixon

CLUB SECRETARY – Susan Gorman

TREASURER – David Sanders

FIXTURE SECRETARY – Jane Cummings

CAPTAINS:

SUMMER – Bill Heron

WINTER – David Gorman

CAPTAINCY TEAM – Sue Newton, Steve Rayner, Martin Sugarman

COMPETITION SECRETARY – Mark Ireland

MAINTENANC E MANAGER/S – Derek Budde

GREEN KEEPER/S – Meirion Rice

TEA/CLEANING ROTAS – Lesley Heanen

BAR MANAGER/S – Marie Morgan

SOCIAL MANAGERS – Marjorie Goodfellow and Wendy Eliz

WEBMASTER – Chris Heath

COUNTY DELEGATES

MEN – Roger Johns

WOMEN – Kate Johns

BRIGHTON AND HOVE DISTRICT LEAGUES

MEN – Derek Budde 

WOMEN – Carol Rushton

NICHOLAS SOAMES LEAGUE – Steve Rayner

HOVE LEAGUE – David Sanders

WINTER SATURDAY MORN ING LEAGUE – David Sanders

SAFEGUARDING OFFICER – Susan Gorman

SECRETARTY TO THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB LIMITED – no longer required

15.Club Coaches avid Sanders and Kate Johns were confirmed.  Thanks were given to both.  David mentioned that the Sunday morning sessions for new bowlers is continuing, all are welcome to come and lend a hand.

16.Roll Ups and Functions/Events

After discussion it was agreed that the Wednesday roll-up session would no longer be organised in the winter schedule, but members were free to come along and sort themselves.  Members were reminded to complete the Fire Check Book, turn off/on the electric fence, and the alarm, switch off ALL lights when leaving and when not in use, lock up after checking.  Put out and take in the banner.

It was agreed that the social events were not very well supported in 2024 so the Social Managers will look at the scheduling of them for 2025

17.AOB

Reminder to check the website for information, Match Duties (when playing on Rink One at home) and the Tea/Cleaning Rotas.  Full details of what the Match Duty involves can be found on the website and on the notice board.

New date for CPR training is 28th March (9-12), please let Susan know if you were on the previous list and can now make the new date.

A reminder that there is a suggestion box which is looked at committee meeting, please use it for ideas for improvements and anything else.

The question of when the sycamore trees would be coppiced was raised and it was agreed that it needed to happen as soon as possible.  Derek to sort.

Meirion suggested a new format of play involving 12 people playing pairs.  It was agreed that he will send details to Susan, to share to members.  It was agreed that we will trial the format within the club before offering it as a possible format to other clubs.

David asked that the banner always be put out on the fence whenever the club was in use, remembering to bring it in afterwards.

Committee members were asked to stay behind to check dates for next meeting – agreed to meet on Thursday 30th January at 10:30

The meeting closed at 12:47.

The next AGM will be held on Tuesday 20th January 2026.

MINUTES OF THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB COMMITTEE MEETING

HELD AT CLUBHOUSE ON THURSDAY 5^TH DECEMBER 2024 at 10:30

1.     APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND ATTENDEES

Apologies – None

Attendees – Kate Johns (KJ), Mark Ireland (MI), Steve Rayner (SR), Susan Gorman (SG), David Sanders (DS), Jane Cummings (JC), Carol Rushton (CR), Derek Budde (DB), Sue Newton (SN), Andrew Dixon (AD), Kathy Dixon (KD), Roger Johns (RJ)

2.     MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

Agreed by SG pointed out that the Rescue Ready Training to be held on 31^st January 2025 at 9am was missing (there are 14 members taking part.

3.     MATTERS ARISING

Th balustrade work is still happening (DB, AD, DS overseeing)

It was agreed that we would pay towards the cost of the pollarding of some of the sycamore trees that is currently happening.  The area is much lighter already and hopefully we will be less plagued by their seeds.   The sale of the garden has gone through, many thanks were given to AD.

DS reported that he has had difficulty finding an investment product that will give us more interest on the club’s money.  Doreen has given the club £500, thanks were expressed.

MI reported that BHCC has given permission for the sale of Patcham Court Farm to the Post Office, so we can expect work to begin on their old site that borders the club.  We are hoping that we will be consulted and that we can make use of the access road leading to the sub-station.

4.     AGM

It was agreed to add a couple of items to the agenda (SG to sort)

DN confirmed that he had asked the person we wanted to be President and that they have accepted.

It was agreed to ask various club members to take on the following roles:

Housekeeping (rotas)

Events

Greenkeeping

Winter Captain

Summer Captain

Vice/Junior Captain

If the committee proposal at the AGM goes through then those nominated for Vice/Junior Captain positions will form the Captaincy Team.

5.     AOB

It was agreed that RJ and KJ would organise meetings for the ladies and the men interested in taking part in County matches in 2025.

KD asked if the Bali Brasserie in February was still okay, all agreed.

KD questioned the amount of organised events and roll ups happening, as the attendance was quite low on some.  It was agreed to ask the members at the AGM.

6.     TIME AND DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The meeting closed at 12pm

The next meeting will be Thursday 6^th February at 10:30 (after a brief meeting after the AGM, especially for new committee members).

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MINUTES OF THE DRIVE BOWLING CLUB COMMITTEE MEETING

HELD AT CLUBHOUSE ON THURSDAY 7TH NOVEMBER 2024 at 10AM

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND ATTENDEES

Apologies – Kathy Dixon

Attendees – Mark Ireland, David Sanders, Sue Newton, Susan Gorman, Kate Johns, Roger Johns, Jane Cunnings, Steve Rayner, Derek Budde, Andrew Dixon

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

Agreed as a true record.

MATTERS ARISING

The new balustrade has been ordered (£7700 +VAT)

A new SumUp machine has been bought and will be in use ASAP.

TREASURSER’S REPORT (David Sanders)

DS reported that we have 16K in current account and 81K in savings.  DS reported that we are looking at a higher interest, fixed rate savings account.

AD reported on the last remaining garden sale, there have been major delays caused by lack of action by the solicitor at GWCA.  The owner of number 2a has been very patient and supportive.  He has asked for a contribution towards the cost of removing the tree, this was agreed (we already have a quote, see below).  Once the money has been paid (18K) then the bank account will be closed and the company disbanded,

Thanks were given to Andrew for all his hard work in selling off the land that was previously rented by the houses.

CLUB WINTER CAPTAIN’S FIRST REPORT (David Sanders)

DS reported that he has had problems getting enough players for some matches, two more are coming up this month.  We lost indoor to Preston (-30) and Wealden (-1).

All Saturday League matches have been played so far this season.

More ‘outside’ players have been coming to roll ups (last year we made £550 from non-members).

UPDATE ON FIXTURES (Jane Cummings)

JC reported that we have been offered 4 matches in June on Mondays, but it was agreed that June was already way too busy and we wanted less in June (due to County and League matches starting).  JC will check with Beach House Park again.

GENERAL UPDATE ON BAR/BUILDING/GARDEN WORKS (Derek Budde)

DB reported that the bank area behind the club house had been flattened, weeds and roots removed and then the area covered with black sheeting to stop any regrowth at a cost of £982 +VAT.

A quote for tree removal of over 5K has been received, another will be got

COUNTY MATTERS (Kate Johns and Roger Johns)

KJ reported: she attended the AGM.  The County competition entry fee will now be £6, the website is live and entries must be in be 31st January 2025.  The two-wood competition will be drawn on the day.

RJ reported: the AGM is next month and fees to Bowls England will be increasing in line with inflation in the future.  Clubs cannot refute someone’s membership without following the Disciplinary Procedures.

It was agreed that meetings would be held for the men (RJ to organise) and ladies (KJ to organise) to encourage them to enter County competitions.

JC to check the website for dates to try to avoid clashes with matches involving a team from The Drive.  Also to check on BHCC website for upcoming events.

LEAGUE MATTERS (David Sanders/Hove, Carol Rushton/BH+D Ladie’s, Derek Budde/BH+D Men’s, Steve Rayner/Nicholas Soames)

Hove (DS): there will be a meeting soon, so DS needs to know about the fixtures arrange so that he can arrange the league matches around them.  Last year there were a couple of major clashes with County matches, KJ and RJ to inform DS of any dates of which they are aware (e.g Top Club, Bill Hawkins etc).

BH+D (DB): went to the AGM, match fees will be £30 per team,£5 for the Bill Hawkins.

BH+D(CR): no changes made at the AGM.  CR will run it next year.

NS (SR): AGM is in February, fees are £20.  Last year £220 was donated to the St Peter St James Trust from the fees.  Next year SR hopes to encourage new bowlers to enter.

UPDATE ON SOCIAL EVENTS (Kathy Dixon)

KD sent in a report vis SN: The attendance has been down for the last few events and it has been agreed to cancel the cheese and wine event.  RJ was asked to hold another Bingo Quiz furing the Christmas Cheer event, he agreed.

AGM

SG asked for a proposition of changing the rules to include: Winter Captain, Summer Captain, Captaincy Support Team removing the Vice-captain and Junior Vice-captain posts, tis was agreed.

A new President was suggested and DB will speak to the person.

DS reported that the subscription will not change for next year.

It was agreed that the date for the Drawn Triples internal competition would be 12th July 2025.

Many thanks were given to Derek, for all the work that he has done as President over the klast few years.

AOB

DS reported that Aussie Pairs is going well.

SG will run the Wednesday roll up during Potters week.

MI gave an update on the Post Office, planning at Patcham will get approval and Hyde Homes has agreed that the Post Office site in Hove will be suitable for 120 homes (50% shared ownership and 50% affordable rent).   BHCC are aware of our parking concern.  MI and AD will be our point of contact during the planning application for the Hove site.

RJ reported that we are getting abit short of lockers, a check will be made to fine spares.

DS reported that we have a potential eight new members (one 17 year old) – awaiting payment of fees before confirming all.  It was agreed that we would continue to monitor the situation, as we wanted all members to play in friendlies and legues if they wished.

SG reported that her and SR wil be going to a community sport event in Withdean Leisure Centre on 21st November, networking.

SG reported that the club will be able to buy visitor parking permits, she is currently chasing the parking department for confirmation.

TIME AND DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The meeting closed at 12:05

The next meeting will be Thursday 5th December at 10:30

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~