The Committee

Committee Minutes

AGM Minutes 2009

An Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Seniors Section of Farrington Golf Club shall take place in October each year and before the Annual General Meeting of Farrington Golf Club.

The purpose of the Seniors Section AGM is to:

• Receive reports from the Committee on the operation of the Section
• Elect the Seniors Committee Officers and Additional Committee Members

The purpose of the Seniors Section is to:

• To use its best endeavours to ensure that the Section achieves the highest possible standards of quality and service to all Senior members and their guests
• To represent the interests of all Senior members in the running of the Section and of Farrington Golf Club
• To use its best endeavours to support the Farrington Golf Club General Committee on matters regarding members’ behaviour and etiquette
• To further the interests of golf and to sustain affiliation with the EGU and Somerset Golf Union.

Farrington Seniors Committee 2009 - 2010
Senior Captain: Tim Waller 01761 221381	Senior's Captain Elect: Mike Astle 01749 671912	Senior's Secretary: Mike Hedges 01761 452632
Treasurer: Ian Clement 01761 414003	Handicap Secretary (Co-opted): Roger Stone 0117 9861478	Competition Secretary: Ray Vickers 01761 416749
Fixture Secretary (Co-opted): Boyd Francis 01761 452726	Away Day Organiser (Co-opted): Ken Hutton 07801438137	Committee Member: John Butler 01761 490767
Committee Member: Tony Clement 01749 673530	Committee Member: Peter Bryant 01761 435876	Committee Member: Rob Thain 01761 233291

FARRINGTON GOLF CLUB SENIORS SECTION MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 18 NOVEMBER 2009

PRESENT Tim Waller, Mike Hedges, Mike Astle, Tony Clements, Ian Clements, Rob Thain, Ken Hutton, Ray Vickers.
APOLOGIES Roger Stone, Pete Bryant, Boyd Francis.
MINUTES OF LAST MEETING Accepted as accurate.
MATTERS ARISING
A meeting had taken place between John Cowgill and some of the Seniors Committee concerning match days and it may be necessary to realign some of the games to a Thursday but this will be dealt with on an as needs basis.
The selection of a manufacturer and price for team shirts is still ongoing and the Captain and the Secretary are dealing with this matter.
CAPTAIN’S REPORT
Little to report this month, however, delighted with the numbers signed up and paid for the Christmas Dinner - eighty plus are attending. Also today’s field in inclement weather was well over sixty - an excellent showing.
TREASURER’S REPORT
A discussion took place concerning our expenditure against the agreed budget and all appeared to be within acceptable margins.
SECRETARY
No report to give.
HANDICAP SECRETARY
Not present, however it is intended to hold a handicap review in January.
FIXTURE SECRETARY
No Report
COMPETITIONS
A lengthy discussion took place concerning the issue of the use of reserves on team competition days and their allocation to teams needing a replacement due to withdrawal of a player. The rules state that reserves should turn up on Wednesdays at 0800 and await being placed in a team, Ray stated that he has run the competitions for a number of years and that this is not the way he has worked it and that to run it according to the above rules is almost unworkable. He stated that he would go to the club on a Monday and check the listings and then at this stage start filling in gaps from the reserve list. With withdrawals after this time he would add in players on the day from the reserve list or indeed make up a team from the reserves if necessary. He accepted that on rare occasions in the event of a last minute withdrawal some people would find that there were only two people for a three team game and whilst every attempt is made to avoid this it can occur. It was decided that as it is Ray who has to undertake this difficul task , the process should be left to him according to the state of the competition list. It is clearly most helpful if people avoid dropping out of team games wherever possible. THE NEW MOBILE NUMBER FOR RAY VICKERS IS 0781 2859229 AND SHOULD ONLY BE USED ON MATCH DAYS. Rules on this issue set out on page 6 of the handbook should be amended accordingly.
A discussion then took place concerning the 2010 Open Competitions and in particular our own. Chris Standen who has undertaken this task for a number of years is standing down and the thanks of the Captain and committee go to Chris. For next year the task will be undertaken by Rob Thain and Ken Hutton.
In respect to our own Seniors Open, and advert has been past to the SGU Organiser. It was agreed that the entry fee of our senior members would be met from club funds and that no charge would take place. Visiting seniors ,however, would be asked to pay £13, this would cover the cost of the green fee and coffee on arrival. It would not include a bacon roll or other food which will remain available but for separate payment. This pricing strategy puts us on a par with other clubs both in terms of cost and what is included in the entry fee. There will be three divisions each with a home and away player element, the divisions being based on an equal split according to the make up of the handicaps of the entrants. There will also be the usual skill prizes, two spots and raffle. There will also be a prize for the best 70 plus player but the one prize only rule will apply. The level of prize money will be determined by the level of entry income but the event will be open only to the holders of ‘active’ handicaps and the event will be a ‘qualifier’.
John Butler stated that he had sounded out the club concerning entry to national senior competitions in 2010 and there would seem to be a core of about eight players interested. John said that he would administer this on behalf of the committee.
EVENTS
A table plan will be drawn up for the Christmas dinner based on ten per table. Ken Hutton and Mike Hedges to deal.
A possible ‘fun skittles evening’ in support of the Captain’s Charity was discussed. It will probably be held on a Monday Night in January at the Farrington Gurney Social Club and would include a buffet. Mike Hedges and Tony Clements to progress further.
AOB
Ray Vickers stated that it would be most useful if he had a designated deputy from the committee - Mike Astle agreed to do this.
Ken Hutton detailed the planned away days at Donnington Grove on the 13 & 14th June 2010 - 24 were signed and paid up with some reserves listed. There will also be an event at the Vale of Glamorgan on 22 - 23rd August 2010 and the list will be going up shortly - again money will be asked for up front as this attracts a considerable discount which can then be put into the prize fund.
John Butler spoke about away days for next year and said that he was exploring a Wednesday in May including coach transport. The venue is still to be determined.
Rob Thain asked that details of new members be put on the notice board and that if introduced by an existing senior that they mentor the new member and introduce him to members.
Mike Hedges sought clarification from Ray Vickers concerning the method of selecting teams for team games and it was confirmed that it was on a purely random basis and not on a seeding structure.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING 13 January 2010

FARRINGTON GOLF CLUB SENIORS SECTION MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 14 OCTOBER 2009

PRESENT Tim Waller; John Butler; Tony & Ian Clement; Pete Bryant; Mike Astle; Ray Vickers; Roger Stone; Mike Hedges
APOLOGIES Rob Thain; Chris Standen; Boyd Francis.
MINUTES OF THE AGM Approved as accurate
MATTERS ARISING None
CAPTAINS REPORT
Tim Waller welcomed everyone to his first meeting and whilst he had no specific report to make there was a number of issues he would be raising as we went through the agenda. He reported that he had a 100% record so far in the results of matches he had captained - played one lost one to Isle of Wedmore, the result being 31/2 to 41/2
TREASURER
This item was the major one on the agenda; to set the discussion in context, over the past year we had operated at a loss mainly by the way in which events had been sponsored out of club funds for the benefit of the Seniors Section and also through the cost of prizes, events, etc., this was to reduce our level of balances which were considered to be too high. We are now at a stage where our reserves are of an appropriate level to allow us to run the club with a suitable level of cash-flow, so for the forthcoming year it was intended to set a budget which whilst on the one hand was able to provide sponsorship for certain events, requires us generally to live within our income. Specific issues were then discussed and voted upon.
In relation to the major source of income - our weekly subscriptions of £2.50 it was decided that £1.50 would go to prize money to purchase the vouchers and that £1.00 would go to the Club Funds. This was agreed unanimously. It was agreed that the current practice of giving a prize ball plus the voucher to winners would be discontinued. It was agreed that individual skill prizes of nearest the pin and two spot would continue but in future only one quality golf ball would be given.
All these proposals were fully discussed and considered and acceptance was proposed by Pete Bryant and seconded by Ray Vickers and accepted by appropriate majority (in most cases unanimously so).
SECRETARY Nothing to report.
HANDICAP SECRETARY
Nothing to report but reinforces his announcement of earlier today that in medal rounds there is a benefit to be gained by not submitting a nil return despite a bad hole(s).
FIXTURES
Tim Waller expressed his concern that having been asked to avoid Thursdays for Seniors Matches and having done so for the forthcoming season, restricting games to Mondays and Tuesdays, we were now being asked to change dates for matches on these days to allow societies to play. There is also a belief that there are more societies on a Monday than a Thursday. Tim is to take this matter up with John Cowgill.
We have received a request from Clevedon G.C. for an annual fixture on an alternating basis and this is being progressed by Boyd.
John Butler expressed a concern that the pool of players willing to become involved in the Seniors Matches seemed to be getting smaller despite rising membership and a discussion took place as to reasons, including cost and consecutive home fixtures. The latter has been addressed in the 2010 fixture list but we all must encourage new members in particular, irrespective of handicap, to put their names down. It was also decided that where an individual having been selected has to drop out then it will be that individuals responsibility to find a replacement from among the reserve list starting with the first listed name.
COMPETITIONS
All summer matches are on schedule with the exception of the Division One individual on the Manor Course. Roger Stone also said that John Cowgill requires the dates upon which the Seniors will be playing the Manor Course during 2010. (Ray Vickers dealing). Pete Bryant pointed out that during the winter particularly when buggies are not available some seniors only play the 9 hole course and asked if it would be possible to hold some competitions on the course to cater for such people. Pete is going to put up a notice to determine the level of demand.
Discussion then took place concerning the National Seniors Competitions which had been entered over the last two years, the entry fees for which are included in the seniors budget. It was quite difficult to arrange teams for all the matches during the past season and the traveling and costs involved were significant. After discussion it was decided that teams would not be organized through the committee this year but if any individual members wished to enter a team then the entry fees would be paid as in past years. John Butler is to sound out members on the level of interest.
EVENTS
The Christmas dinner is to be held on 9 December 2009 in the Montgomery Suite ( Horizon Suite) but this year the start time will revert to 4.0.pm. The cost per head will be £10 plus a £10 subsidy per head from club funds and this will provide a three course dinner but individuals will have to purchase their own drink.
Awaydays were discussed and John Butler volunteered to take the lead on this.
AOB
Auditor – Steve Cook has volunteered to be the club auditor.

Photographs of committee members will be loaded on the seniors web site so everyone one knows who to contact with various issues. – Roger Stone.

There has been a dearth of information made available concerning seniors events and matches to John Cowgill and to the local press. Tim Waller to take the lead on this.

Roger agreed to take the lead on the Green Seniors Diaries but it is dependent upon cooperation and support from members.

Tim Waller spoke on a new feature to take place on occasional Fridays known as the Captain/Pro Challenge. The idea being that a round will take place between the Captain and Johnathon and pairs of seniors, the cost being £20 per pair and the benefit being playing a round with a professional. More information to follow.

Team shirts were discussed and clearly there is demand for more to be available – Mike Hedges to take this up with Johnathon and our existing sponsor – watch this space.

The role of Match Organiser undertaken by Derrick McCaig last year proved invaluable and it was decided to continue with this next year and Tony Clement agreed to take on this role. (Note this will not alleviate individual responsibility in securing a replacement as discussed above).
DATE OF NEXT MEETING
Wednesday 18 November 2009

FARRINGTON GOLF CLUB SENIORS SECTION MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 16 SEPTEMBER 2009

PRESENT
Mike Hedges, Rob Thain, Roger Stone, Derek McCaig, Ray Vickers
APOLOGIES
Kevin Seery, Tim Waller (holidays), Mike Astle (sick).

In the absence of Captain, Vice and Treasurer the meeting focussed on the forthcoming AGM due on 1.10.09. At the close of notice period no proposals had been received for amendments to our operating and playing procedures ; it would also appear that the constitution to which we had been working was no longer an active document since the change over in management structure within the club but still obviously provides a useful starting point. Proposals for membership of the Seniors Committee are as outlined in the attached notice and will need to be put forward for acceptance at the AGM.

It should be noticed that there are four members proposed for full membership of the committee, this is two more than in the past but as all are properly recommended and seconded it is the proposal of your committee to accept them as members by expanding membership by two. It is very much the view that more hands will be useful in spreading the workload in support of the section.
COMPETITIONS
Ray Vickers advised that all were now on track for completion.
SENIORS OPEN
It was felt that this was a very successful event and the thanks of the committee go in particular to Chris Standen for all the work he put in on our behalf.
AWAY DAYS
The events at Wareham and China Fleet were enjoyed by all who went and again a vote of thanks were given to the organisers of the events.
AOB
A suggestion was made that as new members join the club their details and telephone numbers are put up on the seniors notice board. This was agreed.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING
This will be determined by the new Captain after the AGM.

FARRINGTON GOLF CLUB SENIORS SECTION MINUTES OF MEETING HELD WEDNESDAY 12 AUGUST 2009

PRESENT
Kevin Seery, Roger Stone, Mike Hedges, Rob Thain, Mike Astle, RayVickers, Derek McCaig
BUSINESS DISCUSSED
The only item of business discussed was the arrangements for the forthcoming Seniors Open on Wednesday 26 August 2009. To date we have 152 confirmed entrants - this is the limit and demonstrates that our open continues to be well supported and thanks were expressed to Chris Standen in particular and others who have been involved in the organisation of the day.The division of prizes for the day will be based on a separate competition for home and away players. There will be three divisions:-

Div 1 (0-12)
Div 2 (13 - 18)
Div 3 (19 - 24)

There will also be an over 70s prize ( 1st & 2nd)

In each division there will be prizes for 1st to 4th placings

In addition there will be a two spot competition with a sleeve of quality balls for winners plus a nearest the pin on 5th,8th & 10th. Plus alongest drive on 9th & 18th.
THE ONE PRIZE ONLY RULE WILL APPLY
Considerable time was spent on the financing of the day, having received the prize list from Chris. It was agreed that Mike Hedges will arrange for the purchase and collection of the M & S Vouchers for the event, these totalling £1020.
The following is a summary of the income and expenditure for the event.
INCOME
86 Visitors @£10 = £860
66 Members @ £5 = £330
TOTAL £1190
EXPENDITURE
Food etc (Bacon Rolls) 152 x £3 = £456
Printing, admin, stationery etc. = £157
TOTAL £613
PRIZES
M & S Vouchers £1020 The above shows that there is a deficit of £443, this will be offset to a large extent by the running of the raffle and the 2 spot prize element of the day. It was agreed that should there be any deficit on the day this would go to meet the funding of the members competition prize fund.
In past years we have been fortunate enough to have received sponsorship from the major sponsors of the Club Open Week - Coors. This is not available this year and hence the tighter situation in terms of the budget.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The committee was reminded that the AGM is to be held on 1st October 2009 and that there will be a need for the Secretary to give notice of this at the very start of September to allow time for nominations and motions to be made known. Mike Hedges to action.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING Wednesday 16th September 2009

Mike Hedges
Hon. Secretary

PRESENT
Kevin Seery; Mike Hedges; Rob Thain; Boyd Francis; Mike Astle; Derek McCaig., Roger Stone

APOLOGIES
Tim Waller; Chris Standen

CAPTAINS REPORT
Kevin Seery referred back to the last meeting where concern was expressed that all sections of the club have a montage of past captains with the exception of the seniors. After discussion it was agreed that a similar montage be created of all past captains and that where photographs are not readily available the captain will ask Dave Sherbourne if he can take an appropriate photograph. The cost to the section will be about £180 for the frame and settings.

At present there is no ‘hole in one board’ for seniors events. Whilst there is a shield it is limited to hole in ones at our club only and does not include away events and tours or the Manor Course. It was decided that the Captain would progress.

Our current fixture list was discussed; it was the view of the Captain that we had an over-congested fixture list with some 36 friendly matches plus away-days, national knock-outs, the Rose Bowl and matches with the Ladies Section and the Juniors and as a result he was having difficulty in consistently fielding a team. It was felt that it was particularly difficult where there was a run of home fixtures as is the case this month and it was also felt that there was a costs element involved. A wide ranging discussion took place ranging in view from a desire to retain our core friendly fixture list to dropping involvement in national knock-outs and seeking to limit the number of players in matches to six pairs maximum. There was also a view that some of our matches could be made a rotating annual fixture such as we have with West Wiltshire. Boyd Francis indicated that the proposed match list for next year avoided some of the consecutive runs of home matches which we have experienced this year. After a lengthy discussion it was decided that an early meeting be held with next years proposed Captain, his Vice Captain and as many members of the committee as possible to determine our way forward.

TREASURERS REPORT
The Committee was informed of Ken Hutton’s resignation as Treasurer and it was agreed that the Assistant Treasurer - Mike Astle, take over this role. It was also reported that Pete Bryant had volunteered to be assistant Treasurer when and if required. It was agreed to invite Pete to the next meeting. The committee expressed their thanks to Ken Hutton for his hard work in the role of Treasurer.
Mike Astle reported that we have £4079.34 in our account and that included in this £600 charity money and £410 in entry fees for the Seniors Open.

SECRETARY’S REPORT
Nothing to report.

HANDICAP SECRETARY
Roger Stone reported that an extraordinary meeting of the committee was held to consider the playing handicap of Richard Clarke following some exceptional results and it was decided to cut his handicap by 2 shots to 18.

FIXTURES
See above.

COMPETITIONS
The next round of the National K.O’s have to be played by 9.8.09 with following matches to be played:-
Farrington A away @ Alton - Solihull
Farrington B home @ Bishops Wood
Farrington C Away @ West Herts.

EVENTS
The main area for discussion was the Seniors Open to be held on 26.8.09.
Chris Standen has reported that entries stand at present at between 120 & 130 players - so we are on course for a full field yet again. Fee for visitors is £10 including coffee and a bacon roll and for members it will be £5 per head. Raffle and two spot prizes will be held.
AWAY DAYS
The report back from Sidmouth made interesting listening, 21 players attended and were presented with a course of less than 6000 yards with seven par threes. The description does not do justice to the difficulty of the course which meandered up hill from the coast to the top of a valley then back down. On the return nine hole playeres experienced some near vertical ascents and descents to a couple of par threes. On the topic of par threes, a nearest the pin was held on each of the holes and of the first five par threes only three players hit the greens.
Wareham is our next away day on 19.8.09. Thirty three seniors have signed up with most opting to have the steak and beer deal when we return to Farrington in the evening

A.O.B.
Kevin Seery is to hold another quiz night in support of the defibrillator fund.
Mike Astle reported on the fact that a couple of groups of players managed to get into the tail end of our medal competition and that this is something which needs watching our for in respect of people starting late on the 10th.
Roger Stone outlined some proposals which will allow pairs of players to play in three man competitions on those rare occasions where a player pulls out last minute and no reserve is available. The proposals were considered and were agreed to be tried out the details to be posted on the notice board.

Kevin Seery referred to his Captain’s Day which is to be held on 29.7.09.
There will be a £5 entry fee which will include food and the format will be 4BBBwith the seventy and overs playing the less experienced seniors.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING 12 August 2009

FARRINGTON GOLF CLUB SENIORS SECTION COMMITTEE MEETING 8 APRIL 2009

PRESENT Kevin Seery, Tim Waller, Mike Hedges. Rob Thain, Mike Astle, Chris Standen, Roger Stone, Ray Vickers, Derek McCaig

APOLOGIES Ken Hutton, Boyd Francis

MATTERS ARISING All dealt with under substantive agenda headings below.

CAPTAINS REPORT
- distribution of Christmas Gift to staff. After consultation with John Cowgill, our last Christmas gratuity to staff was distributed on the basis of sponsoring the bar costs of the club’s Christmas party as it was considered that all staff would go and therefore receive a benefit. In reality a number of staff we would wished to have supported did not go and thus distribution was not all we would have wished . A discussion took place concerning the forthcoming Christmas and it was decided that we would revert to our traditional approach that our gratuity would be distributed at the Captain’s discretion but primarily to Greens Staff and Bar and Kitchen Staff who regularly work with the Seniors Section.

- use of players down on the reserve list for Wednesday games. Some concern had been expressed that on occasions people who had put themselves down to play after the list had been compiled, rather than being used as reserves for late drop-outs had been made into teams in advance of Wednesdays, then on occasion late drop-outs occurred leaving e.g., a pair without a third member and unable to compete despite having put their name on the list in good time. It was agreed with Ray Vickers that in future those players on the reserve list would not be placed in the list until the day of play, thus overcoming the problem outlined above. IT IS INCUMBENT ON PLAYERS WHO ARE ON THE RESERVE LIST TO ARRIVE EARLY ON THE WEDNESDAY TO ENSURE THAT THEY ARE AVAILABLE FOR LAST MINUTE DROP-OUTS.

- starting arrangements for Wednesday Qualifiers. To ensure that everyone has the opportunity to start a qualifier from the first tee box, the start will still run in handicap order but on alternate qualifiers the lower handicappers will start from the tenth tee box.

-Captain’s Day 29 July 2009. Kevin Seery advised members that the over 70’s wanted to take on the under 70’s; this was agreed as a good format and it was decided that the format would be a 4BBB with the respective scores for each team being added to provide the winner. In order to balance the numbers and to enable everyone to have a game who wanted one it may be necessary to adjust the age cut-off but it was felt it would be around seventy. It was suggested that the match could be followed by a meal or buffet.

- Rosebowl first round is to be played at Orchardleigh on 23.04.09 versus Fosseway

- The Trubody Trophy has had to be postponed as it clashes with the Rosebowl and has now bee put back to either 15 October or 26 November 2009.

- Prizewinner Balls - these are at present purchased from a commercial company but Johnathon in the Pro Shop has come up with a competitive offer to supply embossed balls from the shop , the advantage being that we will be able purchase them as we require them rather than having to put all money up front. Kevin to pursue this.

- Fixture list will need some balancing next year. We have gone through a period of five home games in six and we are now about to go through a period of five away games in seven. Tim to liaise with Boyd to smooth this out for next year if possible.

- Fixtures for the National Seniors Knock-Outs are now available. A Team is away to Teignmouth; B Team is Home to Churston; C Team is away to Wells.

TREASURERS REPORT
Mike Astle reported that the Seniors have £3500 in their account of which £1000 is committed - £600 for the Captains Charity; £360 deposits for China Fleet and £100 for the Open. Kevin Seery reported that through the Quiz Night AXA had donated £245 to the Captain’s Charity - the Children’s Hospice.

SECRETARY’S REPORT
Nothing to report.

HANDICAP SECRETARY
Roger Stone reported that the last medal ended as a reduction only with two players being cut - Malcolm Brooks and Tony Thorpe.
Roger then spoke about his proposal for an additional optional monthly medal to be held once a month on a Monday or Friday which would enable seniors to play qualifiers if they miss the programmed medal or stable ford qualifier on a Wednesday. The mechanics would be that a player who wished to play in the optional medal would register in a book in the Pro-shop prior to playing and then take his card and have it marked by another player (whether the other player was entering the medal or not is immaterial). At the conclusion of the round the player would enter his score in the computer and Roger would collate the results. It is suggested that a £2 entrance fee would be appropriate and would provide a prize fund. This approach would enable seniors who role up on the day to either play the medal or indeed to additionally enter the normal informal games which take place providing that a separate card is kept for the medal and that all shots are putted out. The optional medal will take place for the whole of the day selected not just for the usual tee-slots that seniors traditionally book for their Monday or Friday sessions. Roger will run a couple on a pilot basis to measure the take - up.

Configuration for the three divisions in Wednesday Competitions has been calculated on current membership and handicaps and will be - 0 -18; 19 - 25; 26 - 28.

FIXTURE SECRETARY
All matches for the year are now in place. Chris Standen referred to the Open and stated that so far we have 24 external competitors signed-up.

COMPETITIONS
Kevin Seery remineded the Committee that we need to push the Invitation Day if it is to be a starter - it takes place on the 17 June and the decision day will be 3 June 2009. Of the current Winter competitions, one final had taken place and three are to be played. Referring to the summer KO’s Ray Vickers said that those with byes in the first round should get on with matches and not necessarily wait until the July due date for the second rounds.

AOB
- some members had expressed concern that whilst there were montages of past men and lady captains hung on the wall in the club-house the seniors were not visible - Kevin Seery is to take this up with Terry

- Congratulations were passed to Mike Astle who had been asked by Tim Waller to be his Vice-Captain next Year.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING 1 July 2009

FARRINGTON GOLF CLUB MINUTES OF THE SENIORS SECTION COMMITTEE MEETING 11 FEBRUARY 2009

PRESENT Kevin Seery, Tim Waller, Mike Hedges, Roger Stone, Mike Astle, Ken Hutton, Chris Standen, Derek McCaig, Ray Vickers, Rob Thain.

APOLOGIES
Boyd Francis

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
Accepted

MATTERS ARISING
None not dealt with under substantive agenda

CAPTAINS REPORT
Kevin opened by congratulating the club and staff on the excellent catering for the Seniors Christmas Dinner and the Presentation Night. In relation to the latter, if the Presentation Night is to become a regular feature, then we will have to decide which prizes are presented for seniors’ at our Christmas event and which at the Presentation Night. In relation to the Christmas event it was noted that the sound system left much to be desired and that the comedian was perhaps not on top form.
Thanks were then made to Roger Stone and Ken Hutton for the production and circulation of our handbooks.
Turning to the National Seniors K.O. Competitions, 18 names had been signed up and this would provide three pools of six players playing under the respective captaincy of Kevin Seery , Tim Waller and Steve Cook (included in the 18 was Terry Stacey who at 53 years of age meets the age criteria which is 50 or over).
In relation to Wednesday competitions, as vouchers were no longer presented it has been decided to present individual and team winners with an embossed golf ball each with a tube of three still being presented to nearest the pin etc. A number have been purchased and a further order will be placed to carry us through till the end of the season.
Kevin then thanked Roger Stone and Tim Waller for carrying out a very thorough Annual Review Process on club handicaps. (more below)
Returning to the National Competitions, the organiser are supporting the annual Poppy Appeal and it was decided to dedicate our last medal of the season on 7.10.09 to the appeal.
Kevin stated that the sign up for the quiz night was thin on the ground, much of this was thought due to the fact that past Wednesdays had been cancelled due to the weather and that the club had been closed for several days. The date of the quiz is Friday 27 .2.09 with teams of four playing. Members will be reminded next Wednesday and a review as to numbers will take place next Friday; it is open to members, friends etc.
A phone call had been received from Orchardleigh Seniors Captain indicating that the club was in financial difficulties and that there was a high probability that they will not be able to honour arranged fixtures. It was also noted that our first Rosebowl fixture versus Fosse Way was due to be played at the course by the end of April. Kevin agreed to contact the SGU as to action to be taken .
There was no report from the General Committee as this was cancelled and re-arranged to 17.2.09.

TREASURERS REPORT
Mike Astle reported that we now had 98 paid-up members with just 4 or 5 persons yet to pay their subs. As at 16 January 2009 we stood at £2945 in credit less prize vouchers yet to be redeemed at £564.

SECRETARY’S REPORT
Nothing to report

HANDICAP SECRETARY
Roger Stone reported that following the review habdicap alterations had been posted and that in the majority of changes they were reductions but there were some increases often due to age or some injury cases. Under the new rules there would be no changes to handicaps based on general play except in exceptional circumstance such as a new member join the club with an existing handicap which was clearly out of step with performance on our course. It was also noted that there were 20 seniors who had played fewer than 6 qualifying competitions which meant under the new rules they would not have current active handicaps which could debar them in playing in away seniors opens next year.

FIXTURE SECRETARY
Derek McCaig reported that he was now in possession of all senior captains contact numbers and that he will make contact with our opponents the week prior to the fixture to firm up on tee times and numbers etc. It was noted that for the first fixture versus Entry Hill at home on 27.3.09 many of our players - 24 - were away on tour in Tunisia. It was felt, however, that there sufficient members in the section to still provide a team. Kevin agreed that sign up sheets for the early fixtures will go up on the notice board and the situation will be monitored. Tim Waller will cover the fixture as he is not on tour. It was also noted that the of the first 6 fixtures, five were at home which cumulatively makes it an expensive period and this is something to try and address for next year.
A discussion then took place concerning the Seniors Team Strip and it was decided that the existing requirement for blue trousers and our white polo shirt remain in place. In relation to jumpers however, in light of the change of the club logo away from the old ’F’ to the new roundel, it was decided in common with the club that jumpers would be navy blue with the new logo. Long Sleeved ’v’ and crew kneck jumpers were available in the pro shop but in addition the more versatile short sleeved jumpers could be made available through an advanced order. The cost for a high quality lambs wool short sleeved jumper with roundel would be £23.50. And a list seeking orders and sizes will be place on the notice board. If in doubt as to size, fitting is the same as per long sleeved jumbers so members are advised to try one for fit before ordering.

COMPETITIONS
Ray Vickers said that despite the snow all competitions apart from Division 2 Nine Hole were on target. Concern was again expressed about crossing out from Wednesday matches without contacting Ray, this created problems particularly with team games. Action to be taken is as follows

CROSS OUT NAME ON BOARD AND CONTACT RAY BY PHONE ASAP
Kevin will reinforce this message on Wednesdays. Ray also said it would be most useful if we could arrange a system for deputising for him as necessary and this was agreed. Roger Stone also reminded the meeting that we had agreed at a previous meeting that there would be three divisions for individual matches on a Wednesday.

In relation to Seniors Opens Chris Standen said that numerous details were up and in the folder and it is to be noted that a number had relatively tight closing dates . £1000 has been allocated for our own seniors open which was earlier in the year this year.

The Somerset Golf Union Autumn Cup which we won last year will be entered once again and as per customary practice two teams will be entered from the committee.

We have an Invitation Day Scheduled for Wednesday 17 June 2009, this has been re-introduced following an absence last year as a result of poor take up the previous year. It is important that is publicised to members and that committee member are asked to set an example and invite colleagues from other clubs.

EVENTS
Sidmouth on the 18.6.09 and Halstock Dorset on 19.8.09 have been booked and our overnight event at China Fleet, Plymouth has been booked and a deposit paid. Memebers who are going are asked to give the treasurer a cheque for £50 by 20 February 2009 and the balance is to be paid by 14.8.09.
Reference was also made to a charity day in aid of Lymphoedema which is being organised by Peta Romaine to be held at Farrington on 7.7.09, the format is 4BBB best two to count and the cost is £25 per head to include coffee, bacon bap, two course meal and prizes. Seniors are asked to support if possible - entry details are on the board.

AOB
Concern was expressed about cases of slow play and Kevin will again raise on Wednesdays.

Roger Stone after agreement with committee will set up a midweek qualifying stable each month on a Monday or Friday which will be established on a similar basis to the Saturday Stableford where those wishing to enter sign up in the pro - shop and pay a match fee and then submit their cards after entry on the computer - there will be prizes from the entry fee.
Following information from Stan Heron, Mike Hedges dated members on health issues of members with best wishes going to Ken Raikes and Mike Stratton.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING
Wednesday 8 April 2009

MINUTES OF THE SENIORS SECTION COMMITTEE MEETING 19 NOVEMBER 2008

PRESENT
K.Seery; M.Hedges; M.Astle; T.Waller; R.Stone; R.Thain; B. Francis.

APOLOGIES
C. Standen; R. Vickers; K. Hutton.

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
Accepted

MATTERS ARISING
None that are not substantive items at this meeting.

CAPTAINS REPORT
The Committee Cup Competition will be held on 12 August 2009 in an endeavour to find better weather (also Roger Stones 65th birthday !!!).
The match versus West Wilts on 6 May 2009 will now be an away match due to a clash with the club calender . We have been notified by John Cowgill that there will be a Club Presentation night on Friday 16th January 2009, at which all sections major trophies will be presented. It was agreed that the Seniors 18 hole and 9 hole championship cups will be presented at this event along with the Ray Dando Trophy which is to be contested on 14th January 2009. Kevin concluded his report by thanking Boyd Francis for yet again putting together an excellent competition programme for 2009, this will be published in the 2009 diary of events.

TREASURER
In the absence of Ken Hutton, up to the minute figures were not available but Mike Astle was able to confirm that monies were being collected for both membership fees and the Christmas event.

SECRETARY
Nothing to report.

HANDICAP SECRETARY
Roger Stone gave detailed feedback following his attendance at a meeting held by the English Golf Union in Bristol. A precis of the detail of this meeting is to be published on the web site and also included in the club diary /handbook. Of particular interest will be what is considered by the handicap committee at the Annual Review (due in January 2009) and also comments concerning Inactive Handicaps. In respect of the latter a major software change is due to the Club 2000 computer system which will mean that everyone holding a club handicap will be issued with a unique reference number which when entered on the system will identify the player, their club and current handicap. In the case of a player who has not entered and competed in a qualifying competition home or away in a 12 month period commencing January to January will be shown with their current handicap followed by ( i ) which will indicate an inactive handicap. Clubs are being encouraged to ensure that competitions within a club or opens are not open to non-active handicaps. To help infrequent players gain an active status the use of supplementary cards is to be encouraged (more of this in the future ). THE LATTER PROVISIONS ARE DUE TO GO LIVE IN 2010.

FIXTURES
All fixtures for 2009 are now in place and will be published in the Club Diary/Handbook.

COMPETITIONS
No reports, all are up to date.

EVENTS
Planning for 2009 now well in hand and details of away days etc will be published in the Diary/Handbook.
The Christmas event planning is well under way and at present 66 people have signed up. There will be a seating plan and place cards detailing menu choice on the tables. Included in the £20 fee will be the meal entertainment plus wine and port (the latter courtesy of Ken Stokes) on the table. Colleagues should time their arrival to be ready for the presentation of prizes at 6.45pm followed by the meal at 7pm. The meal will be followed by the entertainment and the event should conclude by 10pm. All the above will be held in the Horizon Suite.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS
The Senior Section had been asked if would be prepared to donate £100 towards the cost of the replacement of the competition scoreboard. After discussion it was decided at this stage not to support the request.

It was decided to enter 3 teams of four players in the National Seniors Competitions in 2009.

At the next meeting there will be a discussion concerning the value of making one of the Monday roll- up days each month into a qualifying stableford competition.

All members to remember that 24th December will be the 80th Birthday of Ray Vickers and a post match event will be held in the King Charles Hall to celebrate this happy event.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING
11 February 2009

MINUTES OF THE SENIORS SECTION COMMITTEE MEETING - 15 OCTOBER 2008

APOLOGIES
None received

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
The Captain referred to the AGM and the principal business of the night. In particular the election of the committee and the co-opted members, the latter being, Roger Stone - handicaps; Boyd Francis - fixture secretary; Chris Standen - Open Secretary; Mike Astle - Accounts. It was also confirmed that our accounts had been accepted and the audited copies returned to Ken Hutton (auditor - Roger Cockhill)

The major item for discussion at the AGM concerned the starting and tee arrangements for our Wednesday meetings and the following is an extract from the minutes of the AGM:-

“Following a lengthy discussion today with John Cowgill it is hoped that we have resolved any problems that have recently arisen. The Captain and committee have been aware that starting times have become an issue. To a large extent this has been because of the very success of the seniors section and the increase in numbers playing on a Wednesday. We therefore asked John about starting on both the 1st and the 10th tees. The green staff were consulted and John has now agreed to using both tees. This will now mean that there will be no starting on the 14th tee and this will now take effect immediately. (NB see below). The way in which this will be administered will be decided by the committee as soon as possible.”

CAPTAINS REPORT
After discussion with those present at today’s match it was agreed that match day fees will rise to £3 in order that the increase of 50 pence will be put towards the Captain’s charity, this will replace the ball in the water levy of the past two seasons. The Captain’s Charity this year will once again be the Childrens’ Hospice jointly with the other two Captains.
In relation to the annual Lions Golf Day , Geoff Moore has requested whether this could be run jointly with the seniors with the funds raised being put to the Captains Charity - this was agreed and Rob Thain will be the link with Geoff.

Discussion then took place concerning specific roles within the committee and the following was agreed:-

Mike Hedges - secretary and Press & PR
Ken Hutton and Mike Astle - Away days
Roger Stone, Tim Waller and Kevin Seery - handicaps
Ken Hutton - Treasurer
Derek McCaig - Match Secretary
Chris Standen - open secretary

It was agreed that the Invitation Day will be reintroduced and will be held on 17 June 2009

The diaries will be compiled as soon as all relevant dates and information is available, this will probably be January 2009.

TREASURER
A full report will be available to the next meeting as monies from various sources are in the process of being paid into the account. Auditing of the accounts was confirmed.

SECRETARIES REPORT
No report.

FIXTURES SECRETARY
The Captain has written to Taunton and Pickeridge Golf Club seeking a fixture - reply awaited.

COMPETITIONS & MATCHES
Two of the final three matches had been played with a defeat at Orchardleigh and a victory at Wedmore. The final match to be played is the much postponed match versus Fosseway.

There was confirmation of the format for Wednesday playing and for the qualifiers there will be three divisions with three prizes for each. The divisions will be 0 - 19 ; 20 - 25 ; & 26 - 28. This configuration has regularly produced an even balance.

Winter knock - out competitions will be played with the full difference in handicap allowance - the same as this year, however Division 1 matches will be played from white tees and Division 2 from yellows. Members are urged to get these competitions under - way as soon as possible.

Referring to the extract above from the AGM it was noted that in very exceptional circumstances, where very large numbers have entered , it may be necessary to start a limited number of matches from the 14th tee simply to fit within the time allocated to us.

The Ray Dando Cup - three clubs and a putter will now be played for on the 14 January 2009.

EVENTS
The following away - days are being organised:-

Sidmouth Golf Club, June 18th 2009, coach to be arranged. (price awaits).

The Bells Course , Forest of Dean - Thur. & Fri. 13/14 August 2009 £79 dinner, bed & breakfast and two rounds of golf.

CHRISTMAS DINNER
This years event is to be held on Wednesday 10 December 2008 and will be at a cost of £20. This will include a three course meal and coffee plus wine on each table and our usual bottle of port kindly provided by Ken Stokes; the meal will be preceded by the annual prize giving from 6.45pm until 7pm and after the meal at 9pm there will be a professional comedian to entertain us. A sign up list will shortly appear on the notice board where you are asked to make your menu selections from the choices on display. The golf competition on the day will be a four ball better ball. Prizes to be presented at the Dinner include:-

Monthly Medal Winners

Most improved golfer

Senior of the Year (a new award)

Rose Bowl Winners (includes all those who played during the competition)

Somerset Golf Union Autumn Cup

Knock - Out Cup winners

Winner of last years Ray Dando Cup

Prizes will be either medals or engraved glasses for the medal winners and the Rose Bowl Players other winners will receive their appropriate trophy plus vouchers.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS
It was agreed that Roger Stone should attend a conference on 14th November 2008 in Bristol concerning CONGU handicapping system and rules.

In relation to playing handicaps, the annual review will be held in January 2009 and any member seeking a raise in handicap whether due to injury, medical or other condition should advise Roger Stone asap.

All members are asked to advise the Captain if any particularly attractive open competitions come to their notice outside our normal area of play as it might be possible with sufficient interest to arrange a block entry and joint travel arrangements (at members own full cost).

DATE OF NEXT MEETING :- Wednesday 26 November 2008

MINUTES OF THE SENIORS SECTION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - THURSDAY 1ST OCTOBER 2009

The meeting commenced at 1930hrs. Kevin Seery welcomed the 38 members present and chaired the meeting.

APOLOGIES
Apologies were received from M Stratton, G Marsh, B Hall, T Thorp and G Moore.

MINUTES
The minutes of the AGM held on Thursday 2nd October 2008 were approved as a true record of the meeting.

MATTERS ARISING
There were no matters arising from the minutes of the last AGM.

CAPTAINS REPORT
My year as Captain got off to a flying start on the very first day when we won the Somerset Autumn Cup at Tall Pines, which I think was a first for Farrington.
Christmas provided the opportunity to experiment a little and have the Christmas Dinner combined with a presentation night followed by entertainment. I would like to think that the first two were successful, I’m not so sure about the latter. The event was very well attended with over eighty present. There was one other notable milestone at this time, namely Ray Vickers’ eightieth birthday. The day began with the first ever shotgun start to a competition held at Farrington and was followed by a rather nice buffet/party largely organised by Ken Hutton.

By way of a change I introduced a 50p weekly levy with £10 going back each week in raffle prizes rather than have a Captains bunker, or a water charge, the aim being to raise money with the other two Captains for the Children’s Hospice South West. Gentlemen through your generous support I can tell you that we raised £2519.06. This was achieved through the weekly raffle, the quiz night and the help of our local Lions Club on the Charity Golf Day.

Once we reached Easter the matches came thick and fast and with one match remaining, Wedmore, we have won 19 lost 11 and halved 3. We had teams in the National Seniors knock out one of which reached the last eight of the plate competition. We also reached the last eight of the Somerset Rosebowl eventually going out to a strong Clevedon side by the odd match in five. It would have been nice to emulate Mike Ashwin’s feat of last year in winning it, but I’ll just have to wish Tim Waller all the best for next year.

The year has been beset by injuries, operations and illnesses to our members. We have had Stan doing his bit to support the Air Ambulance and Ray, Ian, Roger Cockhill and Charles all having operations, as well as scares and treatments for many others. Lets just hope that everyone makes a full recovery and are all fit for next season.

There are people I would like to thank for their efforts during the year:

Chris Standen – for organising the recent Seniors Open, which attracted a record entry of 160. This is testament to its popularity and for handling on our behalf the entries to other clubs Opens.

Ian Clement – for organising the enormously successful trip to Tunisia in March and the forthcoming trip to Cadiz but also for stepping in during Ray’s absence

John Butler – for meticulously organising our (inaugural) superb trip to Scotland and introducing us to that well-known Scottish pro Craig McSporrran!

Boyd Francis – who despite ill health organised the fixtures and contacts for us and has already produced the fixture list for next season.

Rob Thain – who also very kindly filled in on a Wednesday when Ray was away.

Roger Stone – for quite rightly bullying us over scorecards and handicaps and keeping us on the R& A’s straight and narrow.

Derek McCaig – for being so thorough in checking the teams/sheets and phoning around everyone – checking up – typical policeman.

Geoff Moore – for all his hard work with the Charity Golf Day and especially managing in this financial climate to get sponsors and prizes.

The others on the Committee – who toiled away behind the scenes were Mike Hedges, Mike Astle and Tim Waller.

Let us not forget Gerald and his team for Winter Away Days who provide a great deal towards making this a vibrant Seniors Section, even if he doesn’t like playing off the white tees!

Last but by no means least Ray Vickers for just being Ray and coming back!

My special thanks to you all. It has not been plain sailing, but I have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure as Captain and can assure you that it has been an honour and a privilege. Lastly I would like to thank you all for making this the best Seniors Section and the envy of all and wish my successor Tim Waller a very enjoyable year to come.

I will leave you with this thought – a recent study found the average golfer walks about 900 miles a year. Another study found golfers drink, on average 22 gallons of alcohol a year. That means on average golfers get about 41 miles to the gallon! Kind of makes you proud doesn’t it?

TREASURERS REPORT
A statement of the Seniors accounts was given to all attendees. The outgoing captain thanked Mike Astle (MA) for managing the accounts and also Ray Vickers for the important task of collecting the monies on a Wednesday.

MA reported that the Seniors Open received no contribution from the brewery this year and as a result had incurred a small loss of £367. Member’s numbers had increased to 111 with a regular 70-80 participating on a Wednesday. The cash balance as at 10th September 2009 was £4364 with the Captains Charity balance of £2134 to be deducted this leaves a balance of £2230.

AUDITORS REPORT
Roger Cockhill had audited the accounts as in previous years, and he was thanked for his efforts over the last 3 years. He has decided that he would now like to pass this particular function over to someone else.

Acceptance of the accounts was proposed by P Bryant and seconded by C Liberty.

COMPETITON REPORT
All competitions are running smoothly and on time. On a date to be announced there will be a new mobile number to ring if you are unable to turn up on the Wednesday. Please note that this number can only be used on a Wednesday morning. At any other time contact me as usual on my landline or mobile number.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS
The following have been duly proposed and seconded:

Tim thanked Kevin for all his hard work during the last 12 months and looked forward to working with his vice captain Mike Astle and the new committee.

The chosen charity for the coming year will be the RNLI. The new Men’s Captain and Ladies Captain have also selected this charity.

In order to raise money for this charity the Wednesday penalty will be 50p for any member who 3 putts.

A new venture for charity will be a Pro & Captain challenge match. Two members can take on Jonathon Lawrence and Tim Waller (with requisite shots). If you win there will be a prize. There will be an entry fee yet to be determined. Matches will be played on Friday afternoons.

There being no further business to discuss the AGM finished at 2015hrs.

The date of next years AGM will be Thursday 7th October 2010 at 1930hrs.