18/03/2020
Matches cancelled, clubhouse locked
-coronavirus latest
All matches, both friendly and league, have been cancelled because of the coronavirus crisis, and the clubhouse has been declared out of bounds, although the green will stay open for now.
In an email to members, Club Secretary Trevor Clarke says: "The Executive Committee has spent a considerable amount of time considering the way forward in the light of the various issues subsequent to the further advices received from the BCGBA following the Prime Minister’s statements yesterday.
"We have taken account of all the issues and have noted that despite government ‘advice’ not to attend pubs and clubs etc, these have not yet been formally instructed to close and parks and other outdoor recreation areas remain open. Moreover the BCGBA advice does not specifically cover this issue.
"Accordingly the Executive Committee have decided to close the clubhouse and place it strictly out of bounds but advise members that the green is available for use with their own equipment subject to strict adherence to government guidelines. This is on the understanding that the minute the government orders formal closure of pubs and clubs then we will close forthwith.
"Members who have lockers please take anything out of them that you may require prior to noon Saturday.
On other pressing issues:
1. Subscriptions
"Your Committee cannot justify putting your Treasurer at potential risk by asking him to attempt a refund with all that involves. Members are advised that the club expects payment as usual from members who have not yet paid if the green is to be used but will understand if payment is not made in the circumstances. For those who have paid an adjustment to next years subs will be positively considered in the light of developments on the basis that if, for example, half of the season is lost existing members subs for next year will be halved.
2. ‘Friendlies’
"For any member to facilitate in any way friendlies would leave the club in direct breach of WCGBA and BCGBA guidance on arranging matches and accordingly these must not take place.
3. Cleaning of clubhouse
"Will not take place apart from visits to ‘air’ and check the building by members of the Executive.
4. Maintenance of green
"To continue as at present with the green to be cut at the discretion of the Green Manager who will also look after regular maintenance with support requested from the normal team on an individual basis.
"I will advise any update to the position in the light of developments but please also watch the website."
