I was talking on the 'phone the other week to one of our 'alien members', you know the ones I mean, they actually live 'over the Bridge', but come back to civilisation for the summer and join the club.

Discussion was of a general nature, and it came as a surprise when he mentioned that it had been nearly six weeks since he had seen the green. He said when he left that it had been looking rather the worse for wear, and wondered how it was nowadays.

It got me to thinking how time flies, whether you are enjoying it or not, but also how really lucky we are to have someone like Chris Jenkins who looks after the green alongside his many other tasks.

Those that remember the last couple of days of the season will, I am sure, agree that it was rather tatty in places. Thanks to the efforts of Chris and Glyn Stevens, however, within a matter of a couple of weeks it was looking really lush.

When I told our 'alien' about this, he was amazed. Next day, I was down at the green, only to find Chris working his socks off spraying the grass. It seems that we have a disease that has come to the fore, thanks to the mild weather (it never rains, but it pours). Anyway, Chris, in his usual inimitable style, assured me that it would clear up.

I endeavour to bring you, the reader, the latest (impressed folks?). I went down this very day to check things out, and I am delighted to say that once again the Jenkins magic has succeeded in making the green look a million dollars. When Chris picks up his payment, he should grab it with both hands, he deserves it.

ANNUAL

GENERAL MEETING

Hopefully, everyone is aware that it is the club's annual general meeting next Wednesday. The meeting is at 7 pm in the pavilion and, as usual, all members are asked to make every effort to attend. Remember, this is the meeting where your voice 'can be heard'.

ST. BRIDES TEAM MEETING

Again, in case you missed it, the St. Brides team are holding a get-together in the pavilion tonight (Friday), starting at 7 pm. This is in line with the club's other men's teams, the idea being to have a meeting of minds and discuss the organisation of the team for next season.

It is hoped that all those players who played for St. Brides last season will come along; likewise, any new players who are joining the club and have indicated their wish to join St. Brides. Last season's captain John Lawrence has even suggested that he might give everyone who turns up a drink - his stock of tea bags must have been renewed!

CHRISTMAS LUNCH 2001

I have been asked on numerous occasions recently whether the club will be following on the soaraway success of last year's Christmas lunch, and organising one this year.

As the ladies only held their annual meeting on Wednesday night, I do not have details to hand, but I understand that it looks pretty much odds on that there will be another Christmas 'do' in the pavilion.

Obviously, once the ladies have sorted out who's who etc., an announcement will be made, both through the club at the annual meeting on Wednesday, and yours truly. So if you went to the meal last year and want a repeat prescription, watch this space.

GENTS' SICK VISITOR

At the last management meeting, Dave Greaves, our gentlemen's sick visitor, was telling everyone that we must have a very fit men's section. It seems that it is ages since anyone got in touch with him to report an illness. I think he is 'a wee bit upset folks'. I am sure that he has a thing about looking through all those 'get well soon' cards. Remember, he bought a 'job lot' last year off some guy looking remarkably like Del Boy Trotter, so how about it? If you hear of any of the menfolk being ill, will you please inform Dave or any of the committee. Dave gets a massive salary for doing the job. Let's get him working for it.

WHIST EVENING

With the weather being reasonably mild and the wanderers getting back from their various excursions overseas, we had seven tables running last Monday night - still a dearth of 'bowlers' taking part though.

Results were: top scorer - E. Berry; 1st lady - Vi Austin; 2nd lady - D. Nicholas; 1st gent - W. Thomas; 2nd gent - R. Irvine; booby - W. Whitaker; longest sitter - E. Fryett; raffles - J. Cleaver and B. Murch.

A reminder that we would welcome any newcomers wishing to play the game of whist. It is a smashing night out in convivial company. Members of the Bowling Club itself would be made more than welcome.

GET WELL SOON

Glad to hear Pat Quinsee is out of hospital and at home for some rest and pampering. Jack John has also been in dock. Hopefully, he will be home by now also.

NARROW BIAS