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MINUTES OF HORFIELD AND REDLAND CHESS CLUB GENERAL MEETING Held on Tuesday 20th December 2005 at the club premises. The meeting commenced at 19.40 hrs with John Richards in the chair and nine other members in attendance. Nigel Pollett (Treasurer) told the meeting about an impending rent increase – the reason for calling the meeting – and provided some useful background for the ensuing discussion. In particular, Nigel mentioned that our rent had been held at £15 per night for probably at least 8 years, but that in communication with the church secretary agreement had been reached that our new rate would be £20 per night (rather than the originally proposed £25) commencing in the New Year. Nigel explained that our present income was around £615 and would be well short of an anticipated requirement of almost £800 in future years. This is in part explained by erosion of membership by players taking ‘time out’ for part of a season, or longer. He pointed out the three possible strategies for the club to remain in existence: raising subscriptions, recruiting more members, or finding cheaper accommodation. Several members reported their investigations of possible alternative venues. John mentioned that we could share premises with Grendel at lower cost and Martin, Peter and Howard had all found other possibilities. However none of these would be cheaper nor provide better facilities. It seems that an hourly room rental of £6/£7 is now commonplace. There was little enthusiasm for sharing Bristol County Sports Club with Grendel because of the awkwardness of parking and the actual playing conditions. Alex Dunn mentioned the idea of sponsorship, but this was thought to be an improbable source of support because of our inability to provide significant positive exposure in return. Following lengthy discussion it was agreed that Martin and Howard, with the help of additional volunteers, would attempt to recruit beginners to the club and provide a rota of assistance and tuition on as many club nights as possible. John will advertise our openness to novice players on the club website. The matter of raising subscriptions will be dealt with at the AGM in September. The meeting closed at about 21.00hrs. Howard Millbank (Secretary)
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