AGM Minutes

MINUTES OF 85th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING CLUB, 

held at the Fox and Willow Hotel, Ayr, on Wednesday 19th March 2024

at 8.15 pm.

The President, Gillian Watson, chaired the meeting.

The following members were present:

George Hay Peter Galloway Anne Hay

David Graham Richard Morrison Gillian Watson

Donald Cattanach David Gray David Hope

Robert Charters Bob Cherry Euan Lawrence

Ronnie Peat Ronnie Wilson Ernest Mutter

Peter Kennedy Peter Reynolds Steell McFadzean

Jim Lyburn Jimmy Niblock Allan Chapman

David Stubley Fraser Hogg Francis McCrossin

Douglas Haddow

Item 1 - Apologies

Apologies for absence were received from:

Ally Henry, George Hodge, Jimmy Begg, and Willie Scott.

Item 2 - Endorsement of Minutes

The Minutes of the 84th Annual General Meeting dated 13 Mar 23 were endorsed

with acceptance of the spelling error noted by Peter Reynolds in Item 10 Para 4.

This had been corrected in the archived master copy.

Proposer, Gillian Watson, Seconder, Fraser Hogg.

Item 3 - Actions arising

The Secretary reported on the following minuted actions:

Item 11a - New league with Tarbolton. Action complete/OBE.

Item 11b - New event with Ochiltree. Action complete/OBE.

Item 11e - Skip selection process review. Action complete.

Item 11f - Reinstatement of 3 point penalty. Action complete/OBE

Item 4 - Financial Statement

The Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending 31 Jan 24 had been

approved by Committee and signed off on 27 Feb 24. It had subsequent been

circulated by email to all members prior to the meeting. In his supporting report, the

Treasurer said:

" Ladies and Gentlemen , I know you have had sight of the Financial Statement of

the Club’s affairs but a few comments are necessary.

Our only income was £10 each from 30 members( £300) and if on the expenditure

side you exclude the £398 Christmas Dinner contribution our running costs for the

year were £766 therefore a deficit of £466.

Your Committee was unsure of the way ahead following the 2023 AGM and the

implications of the subsequent closure of the Ice Rink. Rather than decide not to

cancel a subscription from each member a nominal £10 seemed appropriate. With a

healthy Bank balance we agreed to subsidise some Competition entry fees to ensure

we could play if the Competitions took place. And we agreed to subsidise the

experience of an outing to Greenacres to the extent of £272. This outlay is a post

year end cost meaning our Cash in hand and Bank Balance is now reduced to

£3819.

The subsidy for the Christmas dinner at the Brig o’ Doon was more than we

expected but an excellent turnout of members enjoyed a most sociable event.

I want to thank our Secretary Peter for handling various small payments through a

Petty Cash account and thank David Graham for taking the time to examine and

verify the year’s transactions undertaken by both the Treasurer and Secretary.

We are now in a more settled state as a Club and are fortunate to have Club Funds

at the level they are to support on going costs and activities."

There were no questions or objections and thus the Accounts as presented by the

Treasurer were unanimously adopted.

Item 5 - Reviews of past season and presentation of trophies

The President addressed the meeting as follows:

"Now, before I start, the venue manager has asked that, in the interests of health and

safety, none of you get up on top of the chairs and tables during my standing

ovation….

Firstly, it’s a delight to welcome everyone to this 85 th Annual General Meeting of the

Gangrels Curling Club. It’s wonderful to see so many of us here this evening – I

guess tonight’s TV schedule wasn’t very promising….

It’s a gratifying end to a season with a particularly challenging start. With the closure

of the ice rink only announced in summer last year, we were immediately thrown into

uncharted waters. Our well-established routine of 5pm Monday evening curling

followed by dinner was rendered obsolete overnight and a blank sheet of paper was

our only starting point. The committee immediately adopted a war footing. Our key

objective was to keep the club together as best we could, combining as much curling

as possible with sufficient social events to maintain the Gangrels spirit. You’ll be

aware of the various to-ings and fro-ings as our unflappable secretary tried to match

our individual preferences with the realities of the available options and of the

consequent programme that arose, one that couldn’t promise the same amount of

curling we were used to but which nonetheless delivered an impressive array of

options for those who were keen to keep on curling.

We launched the season and the programme with an extremely enjoyable meal at

Ayr’s one and only Thai restaurant and then the playing commenced. We’ve tested

the pros and cons of venues from Stranraer to Uplawmoor and in between, probing

the upper limits of playable ice and in true community spirit helping support the

continued training and development of Kilmarnock’s ice men. Your match secretary

will provide more than enough detail on our curling activity and prowess when he

speaks later.

We did lose a few stalwarts along the way – some opting to become reserves while

others took the opportunity to retire from the game completely. We miss you all and

would encourage you to rethink – you know you miss us too.

I think I speak for everyone when I say that we’ve missed the social interactions that

were so accessible at Ayr ice rink. The Galleon’s vending machines have been a

sad substitute. So it was very wonderful to have such a strong turnout at our

Christmas dinner at the Brig O’ Doon. 33 of us sat down to an excellent festive meal

which was made all the more enjoyable by sharing it with our better halves. For

once I wasn’t the only woman in the room…. Hopefully, the first of many Christmas

celebrations.

That said, it was an illuminating illustration of how tight fisted we Gangrels seem to

be, with the contributions to the wine bill flowing in being a fraction of the quantities

of alcohol flowing into our glasses. But its not just the Gangrels who are careful with

their money – it’s what we in Scotland are known for. It reminded me of the story of

the local widow who was running through the funeral arrangements for her recently

deceased husband. Finally the undertaker came to the announcement in the press.

He explained that there was a fixed price for the first seven words, thereafter you

paid per word. The widow thought for a minute then said ‘Jock Reid, Barrheid, deid’.

The undertaker pointed out that she still had three words she had paid for. She

thought again and said ‘Jock Reid, Barrheid, deid, Volvo for sale’.

And here we are this evening, once more enjoying convivial surroundings and

celebrating our shared interest in and love of curling and our club.

From a personal point of view, it’s been a complete privilege to be your President this

year. As most of you will know, my grandfather, John Watson, was a founder

member, club president in 56-57 and subsequent honorary president. My father, Jim

Watson, who joined the Gangrels in 1952, was club president 1972-73 and

subsequently also honorary president. These were big shoes to fill. Additionally, as

the first female to act in this role, I wasn’t sure if they would be celebrating ‘curl

power’ or wondering what the world was coming to….

It’s challenging following on from well-kent previous generations. Both Dad and

particularly Grandpa were fairly handy on the ice. Any expectations that I might

share this curling prowess will by now have been roundly crushed along with any

harboured hopes that I inherited their respective after-dinner speaking abilities. I can

only promise to be short – that is your gift from this generation.

I did, as I was writing this, wish I had dad’s ability to conjure up a joke for every

occasion. He would have been my go-to for an appropriate curling joke to keep you

all amused. He would likely have mentioned that curling is the only sport where

women can beat men, given their huge advantage when it comes to sweeping. Or

that it is indeed the only time (and I emphasise the only time) when you can talk

about your President’s weight, tell me I’m too wide or shout at me to sweep harder

with impunity.

There are so many thanks to be given in this most extraordinary of years for our

Club. Firstly, a particularly huge thanks to our hardworking and immensely efficient

Secretary, Peter, who against a pretty bleak outlook has pivoted and pounced and

almost single handedly delivered our curling programme for the year. He did so

while exhibiting exemplary patience and stoicism as his President and other

committee heretics threw curveballs at his carefully constructed processes and

timelines, expertly honed through years of experience. Thankfully he long ago

learned why arguing with a woman is like reading a software licence agreement - In

the end, you ignore it all and click “I agree”. In this year more than any other we’ve

been lucky to have him. We wish him all the best with his upcoming knee surgery

and thank him again for his constant service to the club.

Another huge thanks, this time to the Committee – to Donald (smiling away oblivious

to the huge responsibility he’s about to take on), Richard and his accurate bean

counting, Bob, Spond king; Fraser, Jim, David and Alan – the Dream Team.

To Ronnie – digital king and master of the website, thank you.

To Ernest – who never gave up on us even though we continually failed to update his

email address. You’re here so we must have finally got it right….

As the news of the closure of the ice rink broke, I wondered if I would be the

president bookending my grandfather’s legacy by presiding over this club’s demise.

As I look around this room, I think that we can safely say that that has not happened,

nor even close to it. Nonetheless, it is not without some great relief that I pass the

baton over to this year’s Vice-President, Donald, who’s been an excellent VP

throughout the year. Despite being unfairly deprived of his driving licence for much

of the early part of the season, he mastered the public transport system (yes, we still

have one….) and valiantly turned up to every game. I have every faith that he will

drive the club onward and upward as we enter another year without a home ice rink

but with the spirit of the Gangrels intact and our enthusiasm as strong as ever."

Report on Open Competitions

Bob Cherry, in his role as Match Secretary, then presented his views on the 2023-24

season:

 Fraser Cup

Season started with new format Team Port v Team Starboard. 2 pools of 9 players

playing at the Galleon. Ice of variable quality through the season.

Stranraer 1 st visit 11 th October.

Our first venture to the NW Castle Hotel. An enjoyable day. Peat, Niblock, Hogg,

McLeod prevailed.

Rinks Championship 1st November.

Gangrels very first game at Greenacres. Hope, Cherry, Cattanach, Watson lost to a

strong Galston1 3-12.

Eglinton Jug 11 th and 12 th November.

A terrific competition with a High Road and a Low Road for the first time.

Gangrels (Cherry and Galloway) made up half an Ayr CC team. Lost to Riccarton in

the first round. In the Low Road the team beat Ayr Country Club and played another

Ayr CC team (Morton’s) on Sunday morning. This was a close match which we lost

to the eventual Low Road winners.

A super event. We must have a Gangrels team playing in it next season.

Stranraer 2 nd visit. 13 th December.

Another great day out. The winners were Reynolds, Hope, Gray, Henry.

Fraser Cup

The first half of the season closed with Team Port winning the Fraser Cup.

Points 24 th January.

A victory on ‘interesting’ ice at the Galleon for David Stubley on 25 points.

Province Medal 8 th January.

Gangrels (Hope, Peat, Cherry, Graham) combined with Ayr and Alloway to win both

our games. Gangrels finished 6 shots up against Dalmellington and A&A beat Sorn

by one shot. We were second overall to Stewarton Heather 2 shots ahead of

Crosshill in third.

Wilkie Trophy 31 st January.

The annual competition against Tarbolton was played at the Galleon. Both Gangrels

team won with a combined shots-up of 8. Our 9 th win in the series.

Stranraer 3 rd visit 15 th February.

Another fun day in Wigtownshire. Graham, Cattanach, Hope, McFadzean were

successful on this occasion.

Presidents Cup Final round 20 th February.

This competition concluded with Team Port winning again.

Province Knock Out 28 th February.

Henry, Cherry, Mutter, Galloway were beaten by Sorn 2-6. Close initially but Sorn’s

greater consistency and accuracy eventually prevailed.

In the open matches some success in the Jug and Province Medal for composite

teams that we contributed to. Hopefully we will be able to field Gangrels teams in

these matches next season."

Trophy Winners 2023 – 24

The trophies won during the season were awarded to the following:

Fraser Cup Team Port (Begg, Cattanach, Cherry, Graham, Henry,

Hogg, Stubley, Watson and McFadzean). As the most

frequent Skip, the trophy was presented to Steell McFadzean.

President’s Cup Team Port (as above). On this occasion, Gillian Watson received the trophy.

Points Trophy David Stubley (25)

Sportsman’s Award Gillian Watson.

Due to the vagaries and difficulties experienced this season away from Ayr Ice Rink,

no other Club Trophy events had been competed.

Item 6 - Election of Office Bearers

With President Gillian standing down, she handed over Presidency to Donald

Cattanach who assumed the Chair. President Donald thanked Past President Gillian

for her appreciable application and contributions while in office and added that he did

have some concerns about this year and the next due to the loss of a curling venue

in Ayr. The timescale and assurance of a replacement remained uncertain but

notwithstanding, the returns from members seemed to indicate a sound number of

Rinks and Reserves might be available for internal and wider events. All of this was

against a background of ongoing appreciable change which would have to be

managed. He then announced that he had chosen Fraser Hogg to be Vice President

which he had accepted and this was roundly acclaimed by those members present.

The Secretary then stated that the Committee composition for next season would be

at variance with that mandated in the Club Constitution due to a shortfall in overall

numbers. The Constitution directs that the Committee comprise 6 Office Bearers

and 4 Playing Members but with Fraser becoming Vice President, there would only

be 2 other Committee Members and no volunteers to fill the shortfall. The previous

Committee view was that no additional numbers were required and if agreed by the

membership, the Constitution would have to be amended. This could only be done

at the AGM with at least 10 days prior notice which the Secretary undertook to action

for next year. Action: Sec.

The Office Bearers and Committee for 2024-25 would therefore be:

Honorary President Jim Lyburn

President Donald Cattanach

Vice President Fraser Hogg

Past President Gillian Watson

Secretary Peter Galloway

Treasurer Richard Morrison

Match Secretary Bob Cherry

Committee David Graham (1)

Allan Chapman (2)

Examiner David Graham

of Accounts

Item 7 - Fixing of Subscriptions

The Treasurer said that in view of the current cash in the Bank situation and

satisfactory state of the Club accounts as previously stated at Item 4, the Committee

proposed that Playing Member and Reserve subscriptions be £15 and Non-Playing

£10. The Secretary added that we were unlikely to be advised of the subscription

fees for the RCCC, and possibly Ayr CC, until about Aug 2024. If we were to move

our predominant programme of games to Greenacres, the annual membership fee

for that venue would be £36 PP or £5 per day for up to 5 occasions. The Committee

recommendation that Club subscription rates be accepted as above at £15 and £10

was proposed by George Hay and seconded by President Donald.

Item 8 - Endorsement of Rink selection methodology and fixture plan

The Secretary thanked the membership for their input and summarised the results of

the annual questionnaire returns which he had previously circulated. This seemed to

indicate sufficient support for a similar programme to that introduced last season.

This was based on having 2 pools of Playing Members to fill 2 Rinks whose Skips

would rotate throughout each event. A&ACC had agreed to form a mini-league with

2 Rinks from each Club playing each other twice over the season (6 games). Dates

and venues had still to be agreed but no show stoppers had so far been identified. A

draft fixture list had been produced as the basis for the requisite venue ice bids but

this needs to be endorsed by the Committee when finalised and probably before its

next scheduled meeting in May. Dates and venues for games with Beresford Ladies

and Tarbolton had also to be agreed and finalised. The Secretary then talked

attendees through the data presented on the GCC player availability numbers sheet

previously issued. His request for an additional player in support of 2 Rinks for the

Province Medal event generated a very welcome post meeting volunteer. An

updated data sheet is attached with these Minutes.

Item 9 - Election of Scottish Curling/Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Reps

The Secretary proposed and it was agreed that the extant SC Representative

Ronnie Peat and Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Rep, David Gray, should continue.

Item 10 - Selection of venues and ice times for 2024/25

The Secretary once again drew Members’ attention to the questionnaire return data

shown at the top of the data sheet discussed at Item 8. This clearly indicated

discontent with continuing to use the Galleon on a Tuesday with favour turning

towards Greenacres on a Monday at 1230 or 1500. This venue and the timings

would also facilitate having a drink/snack/meal after the games. He sought and

obtained a majority agreement to base the Club internal games programme at

Greenacres on Mondays at 1230. He said that an ice bid would be drafted according

but that ice allocations were not likely to be know until about July. Once obtained

and the detail of external events sponsored by the Jug/RCCC known, a fixture

list/card might then be issued about late Aug/early Sep. Jimmy Niblock asked that

the dates and venues chosen be such as to maximise attendee participation. This

the Secretary and Match Secretary noted and replied that all of their considerations

would be focused on the availability returns on the data sheet drawn from Member

replies to the questionnaire. However, ice bids based on player preferences and

actual venue allocations may differ and would have to be managed on a

compromising basis. Action: Sec/MS/Committee

Item 11 - Any other business

Steell McFadzean asked that the Rink structures and play format for the social

events at Stranraer for next season be reviewed to give better opportunities to win

on the shots up scoring basis previously used. This was noted. Action: Sec/MS.

Item 12 - Date of next meeting

Mon 17 Mar 2025 at 1900 in Greenacres Curling (to be confirmed once events

programme finalised and aligned with the final match date given in the ice

MINUTES OF 84th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

CLUB, held at the Ice Rink, 9 Limekiln Road, Ayr, on Monday 13th March 2023 at 8.30 pm.

The President, Jim Dunlop, chaired the meeting.

The following members were present:

Jim Dunlop	Peter Galloway	Ken Ross
David Graham	Richard Morrison	Gillian Watson
Donald Cattanach	David Gray	David Hope
Robert Charters	George Hay	Gordon Todd
Ronnie Peat	Euan Lawrence	Ernest Mutter
Peter Kennedy	Peter Reynolds	Steell McFadzean
Jim Lyburn	Jimmy Niblock	Jimmy Begg
Willie Scott	Fraser Hogg	Allan Chapman
Simon Bloomfield	David Stubley

 Item 1 - Apologies

 Apologies for absence were received from:

Ally Henry, Ronnie Wilson, Bob Cherry, David Richmond, Douglas Haddow, Neil Henderson and Anne Hay.

Item 2 - Endorsement of Minutes

The Minutes of the 83rd Annual General Meeting dated 28 Mar 22 were endorsed.  Proposer,  D. Gray, Seconder, G. Hay..               .

Item 3 - Actions arising

The Secretary reported on the following minuted actions:

a.     Item 8 - Province Medal additional player.                               Action complete.

b.     Item 11a - Suspension of 3 point penalty rule.                         Action complete.

c.     Item 11b - Wording for substitutes in fixture card.                    Action complete.

d.     Item 11c - Robert Boyd recognition.                                         Action complete.

 Item 4 - Financial Statement

The Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending 31 Jan 23 had been approved by Committee on 15 Mar 23 and circulated by email to all members prior to the meeting.  In his supporting report, the Treasurer said:

" I am pleased to have brought to you a statement of the Club finances for the year to 31st January 2023.  Being my second year as Treasurer, it was easier for me to know how to allocate the various income streams.  I have been ably assisted by Ronnie Wilson to present the day to day transactions in to a familiar presentation and as Ronnie collated all the information he has also adopted the role of Examiner of Accounts.   I thank him for the time and effort he took to deal with the paperwork given to him.

The Club continues to have a healthy bank balance.  The income and expenditure account brings out a surplus of £237 for the year against a surplus of £734 for the previous year.  The main differences are trophy engraving of £155 and the purchase of Club badges etc.  There was no engraving cost the previous year.  The badges were purchased to increase our stock and allow a quantity to be given to David Hope to donate to members of his Canadian team opponents when recently in Canada.  Similarly, badges were also given to members playing for Ayr CC against the USA  at home last month.  Custom and practice is not to charge when badges are used for such purposes as these.  There are other higher costs than those for the previous year, but none significant.  At the year end we had no outstanding finance commitments and a healthy bank balance of £4436.

Members, I would be happy to try and answer any queries you may have."

There were no questions or objections and thus the Accounts as presented by the Treasurer were unanimously adopted.

Item 5 - Reviews of past season and presentation of trophies

The President addressed the meeting as follows:  

" Fellow Curlers

Personally, I have enjoyed my year as President, the cut and thrust, and the company of the players I have played against.  May I also say I have enjoyed the meals I have had and I thoroughly recommend the catering to the extent that having a dining club after game would be a bonus.

It is with sadness that I report the loss of Robert Boyd, a man who contributed such a lot to both our Club but also to Ayr Curling Club.  May we have a minute silence in memory of Robert.

The Club was honoured to have David Hope selected for and to represent us on the recent RCCC Canadian Tour.  His section won the majority of their games with a fellow Ayr CC member describing the event as a young farmers bus tour.

We have several points of play which have come up during the year which will be discussed later.

I would like to thank the many people who helped make this s successful year and especially Peter Galloway who, as a stalwart Secretary, has done a power of work.  Thanks also go to family members and friends who stepped up to the hack backfilling gaps in the Drew Duncan Quaich and Frame Salver competitions.  We hope that Ayrshire Curlers Ltd manage to resolve their fuel costs issue and we look forward to many years of curling in Ayr.

It is with great pleasure that I nominate for the first Lady President of the Gangrels Club, the very elegant Gillian Watson."

Report on Open Competitions

Ken Ross, in his role as Match Secretary, then presented his views on the 2022-23 season:

 " I will of necessity be brief.

Our results this year can be divided into 3 categories.

In the 'did the Club well' category, Bob Cherry’s Rink in Day League B finished in a very creditable 2nd place with 5 wins and 3 losses.  This concludes the 'did the club well' section!

In the 'at least we preserve some dignity' category, Richard Morrison’s Rink came through the opening section of the Ross Low to lose to Crosshill in the semi-final.  In the Province Knock-Out, Bob Cherry’s Rink beat Ayr and Alloway in the first round but lost to Farewell in the 2nd.  Ernest Mutter’s Rink lost in the semi-final to Galston in the Parish Trophy.

In the last, and by far the largest 'best cover your ears' category, perhaps the most grievous result was the relegation of Ronnie Peat’s Rink from the Day League A.  They had a rather torrid season in which, at no time, did they have to buy their opponents a drink.  It has been decided, as a result of lack of numbers, to field only 1 Rink in next season’s Day League B.

First round exits came in the Eglinton Jug, Rinks Championship, Day Leagues A and B Knock- Outs and finally, in the Province Medal, both our Rinks lost their games.

So, all in all, not our most stellar season but, as in every report, I want, on behalf of the Club, to thank those members who put their names forward for Rink selections.  Please continue to do so and I encourage any member who is considering putting their name forward to please do so.  These games are always played in good spirit and on the basis of this year’s results, you are guaranteed a free drink!!"

 Trophy Winners 2022 – 23

The trophies won during the season were awarded to the following:

 Fraser Cup                         Ernest Mutter

                                           Bob Cherry

                                           Jimmy Begg

                                           George Hay

 President’s Cup                   Gordon Todd

                                        Steell Mcfadzean

                                        Richard Morrison (David Graham sub)

                                        David Gray

Kirkbride Rosebowl           Ernest Mutter

                                        Bob Cherry   

                                        Jimmy Begg    

                                        George Hay (David Stubley sub in final)      

 Drew Duncan Quaich       Willie Scott

                                        Gillian Watson

                                        Donald Cattanach

                                        Ronnie Peat

Frame Salver                       Peter Galloway

                                           Robert Charters

                                           David Gray

                                           Jim Lyburn

                                                                                                   

Robert Boyd

Points Trophy           David Hope (26)

 

Kennedy Pairs           Alistair Henry and Ken Ross

 

Sportsman’s Award              Fraser Hogg

 

Item 6 - Election of Office Bearers

With President Jim standing down, he handed over Presidency to Gillian Watson who assumed the Chair.  President Gillian thanked Past President Jim for his contributions while in office and added that she had big family shoes to fill with her grandfather and father both having been Club Presidents  She then announced that she had chosen Donald Cattanach to be Vice President which he had accepted and this was roundly acclaimed by those members present.  The Secretary then stated that there were 3 Committee member standing down, Ken Ross as Match Secretary and Gordon Todd and Willie Scott at the end of their period in office.  Ken would be replaced by Bob Cherry and Fraser Hogg, Allan Chapman and David Graham  would fill the Committee quorum.  The Office Bearers and Committee for 2023-24 would therefore be:

 Honorary President             Jim Lyburn

 

President                           Gillian Watson

 

Vice President           Donald Cattanach

Past President                   Jim Dunlop

 

Secretary                           Peter Galloway

 

Treasurer                          Richard Morrison

 

Match Secretary                 Bob Cherry

 

Committee                         David Graham (2)

                                        Allan Chapman (3)

                                        Fraser Hogg (3)

 

Honorary Examiner            Ronnie Wilson CA

of Accounts                       

Item 7 - Fixing of Subscriptions

 

The Secretary said that in view of the current cash in the Bank situation and satisfactory state of the Club accounts as previously stated at Item 4, based on the Treasurer’s recommendation, the Committee proposed no uplift in any category of Club subscription for next season. Playing Member subscriptions would be £23, Reserves £60 and Non-Playing £10.  He added that we were unlikely to be advised of the subscription fees for both ACC and RCCC until about Aug 2023.  The Committee recommendation that Club subscription rates remain unchanged was accepted unanimously. 

                                                  

Item 8 - Rink numbers and selection of Skips

 

The Secretary thanked the membership for their input and summarised the results of the annual questionnaire returns which indicated sufficient Playing Members to resource 6 Rinks again for next season along with a healthy balance of Reserves (8).          Two new Playing Members proposed and Seconded were David Stubley and David Richmond.  The Committee recommended discontinuing last season’s trial with all Playing Members and Reserves forming 8 Rinks for entry in to the Drew Duncan Quaich and Frame Salver competitions as calling on family/friends to resource sufficient players had been administratively demanding and fraught with difficulties. It was intended to revert to both competitions being 6 Rink events.  This was agreed. As had been mentioned in the Match Secretary’s Report at Item 5 above, he drew attention to the single player shortage for the Ayrshire Province Medal but sufficient Reserves would make up the shortfall.  In particular, it was intended to reduce participation in both the Day League and Eglinton Jug to 1 Rink.  No objections were voiced.                                                      

 

The following Skips were elected for the season:

 

Gillian Watson (Pres), Robert Charters, Peter Kennedy, Steell McFadzean, David Hope and Bob Cherry.  Discussion on the Committee’s selection process and means of promulgation ensued at Item 11e. 

 

 

 

Item 9 - Election of Scottish Curling/Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Reps

 

The Secretary stated and it was agreed that the extant SC Representative Ronnie Peat should continue. However, Jim Lyburn would be standing down as the Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Rep but David Gray had magnanimously agreed to fill this vacancy.

 

Item 10 - Selection of ice times for 2023/24

 

The Secretary sought agreement to continue to bid for Club internal events to be held on Mondays between 5.15 - 7.15 pm with drinks and a meal afterwards which was agreed without dissent.  The Secretary undertook to bid accordingly using the fixture card programme for this season, other than for the reduced Rinks in the Drew Duncan Quiche and Frame Salver events, as the basis of the bid.                                                                                           However, all of the Club’s planning would be totally dependant upon the future of the Ice Rink, new ice allocation schedules and the frightening increase in energy costs being anticipated.  The Finance Director ACL and MD Ayr CC had both written to all Ice Rink users highlighting the financial difficulties ahead.  In view of the potential difficulties and uncertainty, the Secretary recommended that members attend the ACL and ACC AGM meetings usually called for and held in August. Notwithstanding, it was expected that all Ice Rink users would be advised of a way ahead as soon as light could be seen at the end of the current cost of living/fuel charges dilemma tunnel. The general consensus was to maintain the planning status quo, await developments over the coming months and the outcome from both ACC and ACL AGMs in August.

    

Item 11 - Any other business

 

a.   Informal discussions had been opened with Tarbolton CC to seek their opinion in forming a 5 Rink league should both Clubs experience a fall in playing members.  This league would take the place of the Fraser Cup which would then be won by the Gangrels Rink sitting highest in the league.  Dialogue had stalled recently but it was agreed that the initiative should be continued if Tarbolton are of a similar mind for the longer term and the administrative details formulated as necessary. Action: Sec/MS.

 

b.  Ochiltree CC had informally suggested a 2 Rink friendly event next season, probably on  a Sunday but no further detail had as yet been received.  It was agreed that if a more positive approach was made, the Secretary/Match Sec would then seek the necessary Playing Member support.                                   Action: Sec/MS.

 

c.    Ice costs and the future of the Ice Rink was discussed and the data requested  by letter from the ACC MD sought from those present.  The questions posed concerning ice charges and future frequency of play were addressed, the numbers responding to each question noted and, following the meeting, the Secretary provided the results to the ACC MD by email.  David Hope suggested that consideration be given to the Club making a financial pledge to ACC/ACL as was done during the pandemic.  The Secretary replied that this had been considered by the Committee and agreed but the ACC MD had then indicated that the level of financial support required was markedly in excess of that necessitated by the impact of the Covid pandemic.  Jimmy Begg suggested that energy cost limiting initiatives such as solar and wind power generation on/around the Ice Rink be considered.  The Secretary said that this had been discussed at ACC/ACL AGMs in the past but capital investment, limited power production and structural difficulties had prevented their introduction.  George Hay added that planning approval considerations had also had an impact in taking these issues forward.

 

d. Jimmy Begg also suggested that the seating arrangements for the AGM be reviewed such that attendees can dine and then be better immersed in the issues and discussions of the AGM.  This was noted.

 

e.   David Gray raised his concern about the way that the selection of Skips for next season had been announced which was perceived to have been based on a matter of accepted annual rota.  He suggested more time was needed for nominated Skips to prepare and that the Committee must make sure that all members of a Rink enjoy their games by having strong and capable Skips.  This was supported by Jim Lyburn.  Peter Kennedy suggested that selected Skips be contacted for their approval before the AGM.  Simon Bloomfield agreed in general but asserted that flexibility was required and as a teaching Club, development in individual ability was essential.  Jim Dunlop sought to draw the subject to a close by stating that the Committee tries hard to address the concerns expressed and provide a balance in all Rink capabilities.  The President then said that that the Committee would undertake a review of the Club’s Skip selection process and seek to refine it to the satisfaction of all.  Ronnie Peat, in summary, proposed that the matter be left with the Committee to resolve which was unanimously agreed.                                                  Action:  Committee.

 

f.  The Secretary stated that the Committee strongly advocated the reintroduction of the 3 point penalty rule for players who fail to attend or are more than 30 minutes late for a scheduled Club event.  This generated general discussion on the pros and cons of the rule but in conclusion it was agreed that last seasons trial should be suspended and the 3 point penalty rule set out once again in next season’s fixture card.                                                                                                    Action: Sec/All.

 

Item 12 - Date of next meeting

 

Mon 11 Mar 2024 at 8.15 pm in Ayr Ice Rink (to be confirmed once events programme finalised and aligned with the Frame Salver match date given in the ice allocation).

 

 

 

MINUTES OF 83rd ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

CLUB, held at the Ice Rink, 9 Limekiln Road, Ayr, on Monday 28th March 2022 at 5.00 pm.

The President, Peter Reynolds, chaired the meeting.

The following members were present:

Jim Dunlop	Peter Galloway	Ken Ross
David Graham	Anne Hay	Ronnie Wilson
Bob Cherry	David Gray	David Hope
Robert Charters	George Hay	Gordon Todd
Ronnie Peat	Euan Lawrence	Ernest Mutter

 

Item 1 - Apologies

Apologies for absence were received from:

Gillian Watson, Allan Chapman, Ally Henry, Donald Cattanach, Richard Morrison, Jimmy Niblock, Willie Scott, Fraser Hogg, Francis McCrossin, and Douglas Haddow.

Item 2 - Endorsement of Minutes

The Minutes of the 82nd Annual General (Zoom) Meeting dated 15 Mar 21 were endorsed.  Proposer,  G. Hay, Seconder, R. Peat.               .

Item 3 - Actions arising

The Secretary reported on the following minuted actions:

a.      Item 8 - Ice bid submission.                               Action complete.

b.      Item 10 - Selection of ice days/times.                Action complete.

Item 4 - Financial Statement

The Secretary, on behalf of the absent Treasurer, Richard Morrison, presented his report having previously circulated the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending 31 Jan 22.    These accounts had been approved by Committee on 9 Mar 22.  The Treasurer’s report was read as follows:

" Lady and Gentlemen, firstly apologies for confusing you all for the 2 sets of financial affairs sent to you.  The Income and Expenditure Statement sent out first was thought by some members not to contain sufficient details and, in particular, a balance sheet which had been the case in previous years - at least 12 years while the annual accounts had been prepared by qualified accountants - and I am not a qualified accountant.  So, Ronnie Wilson, the immediate past Treasurer, pulled together on my behalf the finished product provided to you to consider tonight.

With limited activity in the previous year, comparisons of income and expenditure are not too meaningful.  We had no expenses for such as trophy engraving and no other exceptional outlays so the starting bank balance of club funds increased by over £700 to have in the Bank just over £4000.  Commitments going forward are the cost of engraving for this playing year to March 2022 and the outlay for the drinks provided to attendees tonight.

Last year, it will be remembered that we as a club had pledged £2000 of club funds to be paid over to Ayrshire Curlers if needed to support Ayr CC until Government assistance arrived or indeed just to keep the Ice Rink facilities continuing.  As far as I am aware, this pledge has ceased to subsist and any new pledge would need club members approval going forward."

The Secretary closed this item by recommending and proposing adoption of the accounts on behalf of the Treasurer as presented.  This was unanimously agreed.

Item 5 - Reviews of past season and presentation of trophies The President addressed the meeting as follows:  

" Fellow Gangrels,

Once again this wretched pandemic has come to plague us, forcing the cancellation of our last event of the season, the Frame Salver, and the postponement of our AGM until today. This has resulted in some Members already being off on holiday, and without the attraction of a good meal, attendance at the Meeting is perhaps a little lower than normal. However, I am delighted that despite Covid19, the numbers and enthusiasm of our Membership through the season have not been adversely affected, and the Reserves have had plenty of curling.

Having recently extended the Membership of the Club to include Ladies, we have sadly lost one of our keenest and much loved Lady Members this year, Bella Kennedy, and I would ask you for a moment’s silence to remember Bella…

Robert Boyd, for medical reasons, opted to become a Non-playing Member this season, and Anne Hay stepped up to become a Playing Member again in his place. We are delighted that Robert continues his excellent work for Ayr Curling Club with his characteristic enthusiasm.

George Hodge, after very many years as a Gangrel (nobody seems to know exactly how many), has decided to become a Non-playing Member. We thank him for his long and loyal contribution to the Gangrels.

Francis McCrossin has made it known that he has played his last game with the Club, also becoming a Non-playing Member next year – judging by this season’s competition results, this possibly has something to do with the idea of “quitting while you’re ahead”!

Euan Laurence is moving to the Reserve list.

On the plus side, we have had two new members, David Graham and Neil

Henderson, joining the Club this year – welcome both. Two members of the Disnae Club have expressed interest in joining the Gangrels next year, thanks to the encouragement of our Secretary. I would urge you all to continue your efforts to seek new recruits to the Club, taking advantage of the publicity around our recent Olympic success. As numbers stand at present we should be able to support six Rinks next season, with 9 Reserves.

Your Committee has met through the year to conduct the business of the Club, discussing such matters as Club finances, bids for ice time, and the selection of Skips and Rinks for next year.

Overall I think we have had a successful season, with some excellent games in both the league and knockout competitions – results and presentations to follow. The new format of eight Rinks in the Drew Duncan Quaich involving Members and Reserves, played in December, was a great success, with an excellent three course meal following the game. The Committee feels this should be continued in both that competition and the Frame Salver next year.

We played three enjoyable matches with Beresford Ladies, Ayr & Alloway, and Tarbolton Curling Clubs, the first being a friendly affair with mixed teams, and with wins for the Gangrels in the other two matches. Points and Pairs competitions attracted good support. The President’s skills were sadly wanting in the Points, but he did reach the final of the Pairs!

We shall hear later from the Match Secretary with the details of the Club’s performance in the various Ice Rink competitions.

I must end with thanks to many people who have served and supported the Club over my time as your President:

Lorrie and his team for delicious food always served with a smile,

The Bar Staff,

Your Committee for their support and advice through some challenging times,

Our website manager and blogger - Ronnie Peat,

Match Secretary – Ken Ross, both of whom perform their tasks with expert skill and judgement,

Treasurer – Richard Morrison who took over from Ronnie Wilson last year,

Vice President – Jim Dunlop stepping up at short notice and about to embark on his second term as President,

And to our Secretary – Peter Galloway for his unfailing good humour, his industry and efficiency on our behalf, and for being one step ahead all the time. Peter we wish you a quick recovery from Covid, and all success with the new knee when it comes.

To thank to them all, Ladies and Gentlemen, please let us show our appreciation.

And finally my thanks to you, the Membership, for giving me the honour of being your President these last two years."

Report on Open Competitions

Ken Ross, in his role as Match Secretary, then presented his views on the 2021-22 season:

"The membership will be well aware by now that I devote a good deal of the off season trying to find ways to make the Gangrels competition Rinks as competitive as possible and instil a winning mentality.

To this end, last summer I turned to the biography of Sir Alex Ferguson the famous former manager of Manchester United, to try to find out how he inspired and coached his players to great success. I was only a few chapters in when I realised his problems were nothing like mine. For instance, his players are in their teens and twenties, some of my players have grandchildren that age.

Most of my players are on drugs of some sort

Many are carrying injuries

My players only attend one training session a season

They only diet when they can’t zip up their trousers and any fitness regime is abandoned by the first week in January.

So any Rink’s performance must be seen in this context .

The more astute of you will recognise that this lengthy preamble is merely a device to disguise the fact that we did not set the heather on fire this year, but we did create a few glowing embers.

The 'A’ Day League 1^st Rink Skipped by Ronnie Peat continue to do the club credit, finishing in mid table with 4 wins and 3 losses, hammering Galston on the way, which was most satisfying.

The ‘A’ League 2^nd Rink Skipped by Peter Galloway did not fare as well, they were hampered by many call offs and substitutions, failing to win a match and were subsequently relegated.

In the Knock Out Trophy for this League, the 1^st Rink beat Troon Portland but lost to Fairywell. The 2^nd Rink lost to Fairywell in the first round.

In the Province Medal, a competition where 2 Rinks from each club play and the highest aggregate score from each Rink combined is the winner, we came a very creditable 3^rd.

In the Ross Low, having won the initial round Robin against Ayr and Alloway and Troon Portland, we were beaten by Dundonald.

In the Parish Trophy, we beat Tarbolton but then lost to Dundonald.

In the other competitions,  the Eglinton Jug, the Rink Championship and the Province Knockout, we lost in the first round.

The Committee have decided that in future we will enter only one Rink in the Eglinton Jug as we are stretched to put up two.  The numbers are such that we cannot field two strong Rinks with sufficient subs.

In mitigation, I would say it amazes me how often we are drawn against the big beasts of curling namely Sorn, Dundonald and Fairywell. I’m not implying there’s a conspiracy going on, I’m just saying.

These rather uninspiring results would of  course not be possible without our players. We owe them our gratitude for turning out on cold wet winter nights to represent our Club. I genuinely want to thank them on your behalf, and would encourage you all to give thought to joining them and swelling our numbers.

Every manager stands and falls by his team results.  I take full responsibility and will honour all calls from the floor for my summary dismissal!"

Trophy Winners 2021 – 22

The trophies won during the season were awarded to the following:

Fraser Cup                        Ronnie Wilson

                                           Peter Galloway

                                           Peter Kennedy

                                           Richard Morrison

President’s Cup	Francis McCrossin Jimmy Niblock David Hope Anne Hay
Kirkbride Rosebowl	Francis McCrossin Jimmy Niblock David Hope  Anne Hay
Drew Duncan Quaich	Francis McCrossin Donald Cattanach Richard Morrison David Graham
Frame Salver	Not played due to Covid closure of Ice Rink
Points	David Hope (33)
Kennedy Pairs	Ronnie Peat and Peter Galloway
Sportsman’s Award	Donald Cattanach

Item 6 - Election of Office Bearers

With President Peter standing down, he handed over Presidency to Jim Dunlop who assumed the Chair.  President Jim thanked Past President Peter for his contributions while in office and added that it had been 35 years since he previously filled the Club President post and that he would try his best once again.  He then announced that he had chosen Gillian Watson to be Vice President which she had accepted and this was roundly acclaimed by those members present.  The Secretary then stated that there was one Committee member standing down at the end of their 3 year period in office (Robert Charters) and that he would be replaced by Donald Cattanach.  He then proposed a change to Examiner of Accounts and nominated Ronnie Wilson vice Alan Hastie.  This was endorsed.  A vote of thanks was given to Alan for his previous long term support in this role.  The Office Bearers and Committee for 2022-23 would therefore be:

Honorary President	Jim Lyburn
President	Jim Dunlop
Vice President	Gillian Watson
Secretary	Peter Galloway
Treasurer	Richard Morrison

Match Secretary                 Ken Ross

Committee                        Donald Cattanach (3)

Willie Scott (1)

Gordon Todd (1)

                                           Peter Reynolds (1) Past President

Honorary Examiner            Ronnie Wilson CA of Accounts   

Item 7 - Fixing of Subscriptions

The Secretary said that in view of the current cash in the Bank situation and satisfactory state of the Club accounts as previously stated at Item 4, based on the Treasurer’s recommendation, the Committee proposed no uplift in any category of subscription for next season. Playing Member subscriptions would be £23, Reserves £60 and Non-Playing £10.  He added that we were unlikely to be advised of the subscription fees for both ACC and Scottish Curling until about Aug 2022.  Bob Cherry suggested that the Reserve fee be increased as he thought that the majority played regularly and thus the extant fee was too low.  Limited discussion ensued but without the benefit of the Treasurer’s view on this, the motion stalled.  The Committee recommendation that Club subscription rates remain unchanged was accepted unanimously. 

         

Item 8 - Rink numbers and selection of Skips

The Secretary thanked the membership for their input and summarised the results of the annual questionnaire returns which indicated sufficient Playing Members to resource 6 Rinks again for next season along with a healthy balance of Reserves (9).  The Committee recommended continuing last season’s trial with all Playing Members and Reserves forming 8 Rinks for entry in to the Drew Duncan Quaich and Frame Salver competitions.  This was agreed and the risk of having to call on family/ friends to make up any shortfalls or play with reduced numbers was accepted.  As had been mentioned in the Match Secretary’s Report at Item 5 above, he drew attention to the limited numbers indicated as available for some SC/RCCC sponsored 2 Rink events.  In particular, it was intended to reduce participation in the Eglinton Jug to 1 Rink.  No objections were voiced.  He also highlighted the need for another 2 Playing Members to fill the requirement for entry into the Ayrshire Province Medal (APM).  He asked if there might be any volunteers for this and Anne Hay and David Graham said yes, subject to the published dates of the event.  Sufficient Reserves were earmarked to cater for any short term shortfalls.  Action: Match Sec.

2 Rinks would continue in the Day Leagues, 1 in League A and the other in League B.                              

The following Skips were elected for the season:

 Jim Dunlop (Pres), Jimmy Niblock, Willie Scott, Gordon Todd, Peter Galloway and Ernest Mutter.  Skips for the additional Rinks in the Drew Duncan Quaich and Frame Salver events would be Peter Kennedy and Allan Chapman. 

Item 9 - Election of Scottish Curling/Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Reps

The Secretary proposed, and it was agreed, that the extant representative Jim Lyburn (EJ/AP) should continue. However, Robert Boyd would be standing down as the SC Rep but Ronnie Peat magnanimously agreed to fill this vacancy.

Item 10 - Selection of ice times for 2022/23

The Secretary sought agreement to continue to bid for Club internal events to be held on Mondays between 5.15 - 7.15 pm with drinks and a meal afterwards which was agreed without dissent.  The Secretary undertook to bid accordingly using the fixture card programme for this season as the basis of the bid.

The Secretary then outlined the draft programme of events which would underpin the requisite ice bid. This would total approximately 71 sheets of ice and with the ice charge being increased by £1 per person per session, the shared cost per Playing Member would increase by about £30 from that of last year with the total cost to the Club being in the region of £8300.  Members were reminded that a 2% discount was available to Clubs who paid in full by 31 Oct 22.  Prompt individual payments to the Club were therefore critical to permit the Treasurer to make this deadline and gain the saving on offer.   It was anticipated that the actual ice allocation would be received from ACL in June/July.  The Secretary read out the content of an email received from the MD ACL on 21 Mar 22 which sought to redress concerns expressed by Clubs regarding ice charges for next season.  The Board had, and would continue to have, difficult decisions to make as curlers face an ageing membership and the, frankly, frightening increase in energy costs in the pipeline.

General discussion followed on the general topic of costings and the means to reduce the Ice Rink energy bill.  Bob Cherry again suggested that the share cost by Club Reserves should increase by £20 from next season.  The general consensus was to maintain the extant fee and await developments over the summer months and the outcome from both ACC and ACL AGMs in August.

    

Item 11 - Any other business

a.               In his absence, the Secretary voiced a concern expressed by Jimmy Niblock regarding the Club’s application of its 3 shot penalty rule for a Rink short of a player. He perceived that there had been inconsistency in its application over the past few seasons, firstly because of a shortage of Reserves and later because of Covid and sudden self-isolation.  The issue generated animated discussion from George Hay suggesting the penalty be reduced to 2 shots, Euan Lawrence stating that many Clubs do not hold the rule to the Match Secretary proposing that we dispense with it as all Club Members were diligent in seeking a substitute.  The President drew the matter to a conclusion by suggesting we suspend the ruling for next season which was unanimously agreed.          Action:  Sec/All.

b.               Bob Cherry asked for clarification on substitutes and their order of play in a Rink. The Secretary was tasked to review the wording in the Fixture Card to resolve any ambiguity/doubt and have the outcome endorsed by the Committee. David Graham drew particular attention to situations which might involve the integration of more than 1 substitute.                                                                                      Action:  Sec.

c.               Bob Cherry stated that he saw recurring slow play as being a problem with some Skips taking too long in discussion with their 3rds to reach a tactical play decision. He said, and it was generally agreed, that with a 2 hour bell to bell play duration, the aim for all Rinks should be to achieve 8 ends.

d.               Euan Lawrence suggested that the Committee consider some merit worthy recognition for Robert Boyd given his long term commitment to the Gangrels and

ACC.                                                                                Action:  Committee.

Item 12 - Date of next meeting

Mon 13 Mar 2023 at 8.15 pm in Ayr Ice Rink (to be confirmed once events programme finalised and aligned with the Frame Salver match date given in the ice allocation).

MINUTES OF 82nd ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

CLUB, held on Zoom on Monday 15th March 2021 at 5.00 pm.

The President, Peter Reynolds, hosted/chaired the meeting.

The following members were present

Ally Henry, Anne Hay, Ken Ross, Gillian Watson, Francis McCrossin, Ronnie Wilson,  Robert Boyd, David Gray, Peter Reynolds, Robert Charters, George Hay, Jim Dunlop, Peter Galloway, Richard Morrison, Donald Cattanach, David Hope, Jimmy Niblock, Fraser Hogg.

Item 1 - Apologies

Apologies for absence were received from Jimmy Begg.

Item 2 - Endorsement of Minutes

The Review Notes of the 81st Annual General Meeting dated 16 Mar 20 were endorsed.  Proposer, George Hay, Seconder, David Gray.

Item 3 - Actions arising

The Secretary reported that no actions were recorded.

Item 4 - Financial Statement

The Treasurer, Ronnie Wilson, gave his report which had previously been circulated along with the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending 31Jan 21.  These accounts had been approved by Committee on 15 Feb 21.  The Treasurer closed by recommending adoption of the accounts as presented.  This was Proposed by Jimmy Niblock and Seconded by Jim Dunlop.

Item 5 - Reviews of past season and presentation of trophies

The President addressed the meeting as follows:  

"It has been a year like no other. Fellow Gangrels, I hope you and yours have all managed to stay well, sane, and reasonably fit throughout this year of the Covid19 pandemic.

My review covers four main areas; a brief account of the curling which took place, what your Committee got up to, the state of the Club and its Membership and finally a few words of thanks and hope for the future

Our short playing season was brought to an abrupt end when stricter Covid19 restrictions were introduced in October last year. Only four Club events took place. On 28th September a Gangrels team consisting of your President, Ronnie Peat, Jim Dunlop and David Hope took part in the Opening Bonspiel, and came 2nd, with a good win over the Country Club but beaten by Galston. Later that day there was a Gangrels practice session attended by 13 Club Members. On 5th October the first round of the Fraser Cup was played – there were 3 winners and 3 losers – Peter Galloway’s rink was top of the board on ends up. Two days later on the 7th October Peter Galloway (skip) with Ernest Mutter, Ronnie Peat and Jimmy Niblock won their game against Troon Portland in the first round of the Ross Low.

As no Club competitions were completed this year, there are no trophies to be presented.

Your Committee continued to be active through the year, the President intermittently, the Treasurer frequently, and the Secretary almost continuously, initially communicating by phone and email, later adopting the new technology with a total of 6 Zoom Committee Meetings over the last few months. (We are indebted to Gillian Watson for her advice and encouragement in that direction.)

The main areas of discussion concerned the protection of the interests of the Club and its Members, how to interpret and respond to the information from

Ayr Curling Club/Ayrshire Curlers Limited, and plans for the resumption of curling next season.

There was much talk about pledges to support the Ice Rink, both individual and as a Club. After careful investigation of the circumstances and with the Treasurer’s approval, the Committee agreed to pledge £2000, and to encourage Members to pledge an amount with which they were comfortable. There were no objections to this from the Membership, indeed messages of approval were received. We still await details of the allocation of Government sports funding, but ACC/ACL appear to be optimistic that the pledges may not be required, at least not the full amount pledged.

Formal election of Office Bearers comes later in the Agenda, but this matter was considered in Committee. The Committee agreed to the proposal that this year’s Office Bearers and Committee Members (those who are willing and able) should remain in post for a further year, to give continuity in these exceptional times, and to enjoy a more normal experience in these roles next year. We shall come back to that in Item 6 of the Agenda.

Moving on to Membership of the Club. We have heard that the Club is in good financial health, and judging from Secretary Peter’s questionnaire returns, the level of enthusiasm for a return to curling is gratifyingly high. Also when one more Playing Member to make up 6 rinks was sought, more than one of the Reserves put themselves forward straightaway, and we thank them for this.

We have 3 resignations from the Club – Austin Thomson, Greer Murray (who was a non-playing member in recent years), and Ken Ireland, and no new members proposed. Euan Lawrence has elected to join the Reserves, Fraser Hogg and Willie Scott have stepped up to become Playing Members, and I am especially delighted that Anne Hay is returning to curl with us, as a Reserve at this stage.

One other resignation I should mention concerns our Treasurer Ronnie Wilson, who is standing down from this post after 8 years in the job. The Club’s finances could not have been in safer hands, and we thank you Ronnie for your diligence, efficiency, and wise counsel in Committee over this time. We are naturally delighted that you are continuing to curl with us.

I am very happy to announce that Past President Richard Morrison has agreed to take on the role, and I am sure there will be a seamless transition from one excellent Treasurer to the next.

Before I finish I would like to thank you all for entrusting me with the Presidency of this historic Club, which I take as a great honour. I would also like to thank my Committee, for their support through the year, and tolerance of my variable success in mastering Zoom technology.

 

Thanks also go to Ronnie Peat for attending to the website (not such an onerous task this year), Ken Ross Match Secretary who has worked with Secretary Peter in the selection of rinks and skips, Ronnie Wilson Treasurer whom I have already thanked, Jim Dunlop Vice President who stepped in at short notice, and Peter Galloway, our unfailing Secretary, who simply keeps the show on the road.

I hope we are all able to enjoy the summer when it comes, and I very much look forward to meeting on the ice in the autumn."

Item 6 - Election of Office Bearers

As had been intimated by the President in his review at Item 5 above, as this had been a fallow year in terms of curling activity, it had been agreed by the Committee that, exceptionally, there should be no changes in the composition of the Committee.  Jimmy Niblock said that the precedence for continuing with a President and Committee for consecutive years had been set in the past without objection.  With no objections being voiced, the Secretary reported that the Office Bearers and Committee for 2021-22 would therefore be:

 

Honorary President                Jim Lyburn

 

President                                 Peter Reynolds

 

Vice President             Jim Dunlop

 

Past President             Richard Morrison

 

Secretary                                 Peter Galloway

 

Treasurer                                Richard Morrison

 

Match Secretary                 Ken Ross

 

Committee                              Robert Charters (1)

                                                Gillian Watson  (2)

                                                Willie Scott (2)

                                                Gordon Todd (2)

 

Honorary Examiner

of Accounts                 Allan Hastie

 

Item 7 - Fixing of Subscriptions

 

The Treasurer reminded the meeting that there had been a debate and review of subscription rates last year which resulted in the Mother Club subscription being set at £43 (inclusive of a £20 SC/RCCC membership fee), Non-Mother Club at £23 and Non-Playing at £10.  Given the satisfactory state of the Club accounts as previously stated at Item 4, he therefore recommended that there be no change to Playing Member and Non-playing subscriptions. He added that we were unlikely to be advised of the subscription fees for both Ayr Curling Club and Scottish Curling/RCCC until about Aug 2021.  His proposal that there be no change to the basic Club subscription rates was accepted unanimously.                                                                     

 

Item 8 - Rink numbers and selection of Skips

 

Taking into account the resignations and changes in playing status reported by the President in his review at Item 5 above, the Secretary thanked the membership for their input and summarised the results of the annual questionnaire returns which indicated sufficient Playing Members to resource 6 Rinks again for next season along with a healthy balance of Reserves (9).  He also highlighted that the previously agreed trial to have 8 Rinks participate in the Drew Duncan Quaich and Frame Salver competitions would be progressed next season where all Playing and Reserve Members would compete. Sufficient Playing Members and Reserves had been recorded for all external events.  He then proposed that if everyone was content, he would work up an events programme very similar in activity level as in this season’s fixture card and with very similar Skips and Rinks.  This would then be used to inform an ice bid which would be submitted to ACL once they had indicated what a return to curling would entail.                                                       Action:  Sec

 

Robert Boyd as ACC President expressed the optimistic view that Ayr ice Rink should re-open for business in the very near future once sufficient financial support had been provided and declared by Sport Scotland and then ACL.  Restoring the ice pad would then be progressed as a matter of priority.

 

The following Skips were elected for the season:

 

Peter Reynolds (Pres), Francis McCrossin, David Gray, Ronnie Wilson, Ronnie Peat and Ken Ross.  Additions for the Drew Duncan Quaich and Frame Salver events would be Peter Galloway and Bella Kennedy.

 

 

 

 

Item 9 - Election of Scottish Curling/Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Reps

 

The Secretary proposed and it was agreed that the extant representatives, Robert Boyd (SC/RCCC) and Jim Lyburn (EJ/AP), should continue.

 

Item 10 - Selection of ice times for 2021/22

 

The Secretary sought agreement to continue to bid for Club internal events to be held on Mondays between 5 - 7 pm with drinks and a meal afterwards which was agreed without dissent. He undertook to bid accordingly.                 Action:  Sec.

 

Jim Dunlop asked whether catering on site would be available which Robert Boyd confirmed.

 

The Secretary said that as the way ahead for next season was still unknown, it could be another short notice and busy 6 months to get our curling house in order, fixtures arranged and then promulgated.  Last year’s fixture card would be used as a template.  More information and fine detail was awaited from ACL/ACC as was whether Covid 19 protection protocols would be applied.   Robert Boyd and George Hay both suggested that the current fog of Ice Rink curling activity uncertainty may be eased in the next week or two.                                                                                                                                                                                   

Item 11 - Any other business

 

a.         Jimmy Niblock thanked Robert Boyd for keeping us all posted of developments regarding the Ice Rink and of U Tube curling competitions.

 

b.         Robert Boyd, as ACC President, gave an extensive and detailed resume of what the Ice Rink was doing to get all curlers motivated to return to the ice and what was being considered to improve the facilities.  A wide range of initiatives were described such as encouraging NHS workers to come and try curling, seeking local business involvement in the Ice Rink, encouraging new members and the cultivation of a welcoming atmosphere throughout our activities, especially to come and try curling.  Alistair Henry suggested that Mark Peroni and his business also be approached to assist.  This was noted.  David Gray sought clarification on the degree of support forthcoming from the ice hockey and figure skating fraternities which Robert Boyd gave his views on.

 

c.         The President said that the Committee had given consideration to forms of social gatherings for Club members but little progress had been made due to too many uncertainties for the way ahead to make any definitive plans.   Notwithstanding, as a route map to normality become clearer and summer approaches, something may evolve to get the membership together prior to a return to curling.

 

Item 12 - Date of next meeting

 

Mon 14 Mar 2022 at 8.15 pm in Ayr Ice Rink following a meal at the end of our playing season (to be confirmed once events programme finalised and aligned with the Frame Salver match date given in the ice allocation).

GANGRELS CC 2019/20 END OF SEASON REVIEW

The Club’s Constitution requires an AGM to be held before 31 March each year.  The 2020 AGM was scheduled to be held on Monday 16 March 2020, however, due to social distancing measures introduced by the UK Government as a result of the COVID-19 virus pandemic, that meeting was cancelled at short notice on Sunday 15 March.

In these quite exceptional circumstances and to enable ongoing administration of Club activities, the Committee proposed in the email from Secretary Peter dated 15 March, that a newsletter be composed and distributed which would summarise the business to be conducted under the proposed AGM Agenda originally issued by email on 3 March 2020.  This would keep everyone informed of this season’s achievements and plans for the next and more importantly allow administration of the Club’s activities.  Members were advised that consent to adopt the various reports, proposals and nominations included in the Agenda would be assumed unless notified otherwise.  No notes of any dissension have been received.

 While the way ahead for next season is uncertain at the moment, the information herein sets the scene of how things went last season, the changes arising from the AGM and considerations for the next.

Last AGM Minuted actions.   All have been completed.

Financial Statement by Treasurer.

"The Income & Expenditure Account for the year ended 31 January 2020 and Balance Sheet as at that date were circulated by email to all members with the calling notice for the AGM.  These Accounts had been examined by Allan Hastie and include his report. I would take this opportunity to thank Allan for carrying out that task for the Club again this year.  

I am pleased to report that the Club finances are in a healthy position having achieved a modest surplus of Income over Expenditure of £259 compared with £1,021 in 2019.  

I do not intend to cover every item in the Accounts but would highlight the following: 

There has been a return to a small downward trend in Subscription Income from £1,242 to £1,156.  This was due to two fewer Mother Club subscriptions than 2019 as well £1 less per Non-Mother Club Member and two partial year subscriptions for two new members (Haddow and Ireland). Donations to Club funds amounted to £50 in the 2020 year compared with £103 in 2019. We incurred a deficit on the 80^th Anniversary Dinner held in the Horizon Hotel on 4^th October 2019 of £199 which was the cost of the excellent magician entertainer on the evening, a cost last year’s AGM agreed should be met from Club funds. 

Ice costs were recovered from playing members with a surplus this year of £7 compared with £461 in 2019.  The charge to playing members was reduced from £263 to £260. The ice charge for Reserves was maintained at £60. The net cost of ice for all matches including points, pairs and inter club games ,but not the day league rinks , was £6,773 (2019 - £6,211).  

All expenses have been kept under control - the only new non-recurring item being the donation of £50 agreed by the Committee to assist with the funding of the Junior International Bonspiel.  

The Net Assets position at 31 January 2020 is in a healthy position at £3,943 and is at a level which provides a buffer for any unexpected expenditure or delays in recovering ice money from members.  

The Accounts were approved by the Committee on 20 February.  I would recommend adoption of these accounts.  

Subscriptions 

At the Committee meeting on 20 February 2020 I did indicate that no increase was justified in the subscription rates for 2020/21.  I have been advised by direct contact with Scottish Curling that the rate of subscription for 2020/21 will remain at £20. On that basis I would recommend our subscriptions should remain unchanged at £43 and £23 respectively and Non-Players £10.  

We currently have 34 Scottish Curling Playing Members of which 18 are Non-Mother Club and 16 Mother Club."

President’s Review

"Members – ladies and gentlemen – Hon President Jim and Alistair Henry who keeps in regular touch with the club and indeed Skipped in the closing event, welcome all.

The Club has had a stable year as regards membership with no drop offs and going forward for our next season the questionnaires indicate all Playing Members returning for our competition programme, with the exception of Jennifer Peat. Jennifer is pursuing her foreign language passion and we wish her well and be assured leaving has nothing to do with her membership of the club.

On the upside, we have 3 new Reserves playing with us this year in Douglas Haddow, Ken Ireland and Fraser Hogg and they are most welcome to be with us. On the subject of subs, we need to ensure all subs get asked on a regular basis to make them feel fully involved.

To this end, your Committee has decided to alter the formats of the Drew Duncan Quaich and the Frame Salver to include as many Reserves as possible in these competitions. An additional sheet of ice is to be applied for and, if allocated, will allow us to field 8 Rinks for these fixtures. If it doesn’t work, then for 21/22 we can revert to the previous formats or adjusted formats.

As is customary over the year, the Committee has convened for meetings and I hope our deliberations have resulted in the Club being run efficiently for your Curling enjoyment. I must say that I feel that I have had an easy year with no major issues to address and for this I thank you.

On the competition front, you have ensured that the Gangrels Club continues to have  a high profile. 2 teams in the Day League Division A is a credit to the Club, and both have earned a return place for next season. So well done both teams.

Our year included a second Club Dinner at the Horizon Hotel. That dinner ‘celebrated’ the Club’s 80^th year of existence. The Horizon provided a splendid value for money meal and the entertainment provided by Michael Netto the magician clearly added to everyone’s enjoyment. Whether to repeat the Dinner will be considered for the future.

Our Match Secretary Ken will later give us a detailed report on our match successes and minor failures in the next Agenda report. I am pleased there is still much enthusiasm for all the regular open competitions and I think that those who participate are put to the test against strong opposition.  That is really good for sharpening our curling skills.

The friendlies against Beresford Ladies, Ayr and Alloway and Tarbolton are good fun and sociable meetings, so anyone who has not participated in these friendlies, please give it a go.

At this point, I would like to congratulate Robert Boyd on his Presidential appointment to Ayr Curling Club. Robert ,well done taking on the job for the furtherance  of good curling for us all.

Now the matter of the amended Constitution. The Committee felt that the wording of the Constitution should be altered to use more relevant wording to 2020 and while there have been contributions from all of the Committee, Peter, your Secretary,  was the principal wordsmith.

As President, on your behalf we need to record thanks to your Committee and others:

·         To Passion Caterers for another year of wholesome food.

·         Bar Staff for friendly service.

·         Ronnie Peat for the web site maintenance  -  maintenance sounds a non burdensome task.  However, the up dating of weekly results, match commentaries, photo up loading etc, etc takes up a lot of time and is much appreciated, so many thanks Ronnie.

·         Our Treasurer Ronnie Wilson – well done Ronnie for the stewardship of our funds.

·         Our Vice President Peter Reynolds who has supported me with sage advice.

·         And the main pillar, glue, whipper in etc who organises everything to make sure we are in the right place at the right time week on week our Secretary Peter Galloway  -  Peter a first class job  - please for Peter and those who assist with running the club  -  a round of applause.

Finally, thank you from me as your retiring President for the opportunity to give something back to the Club I have been a member of  for 13 years.

It is over to Peter Reynolds to now succeed me, and Peter have a good year going forward."

Match Secretary’s Review.

"Mr President, fellow Gangrels,

Members must still be traumatised by last year’s report when I intimated that Gangrels Rinks lost in the first round of every competition we entered.  I vowed that this would never happen again on my watch.  Out would go the dead wood, the prima donnas, the lame and the frankly incompetent. What a difference this approach has made.

We still had our embarrassing early exits of course, notably both rinks in the Eglinton Jug, the Parish Trophy and the Ross Low.  I won’t name the individuals here, for the most part they are decent people and do not deserve the humiliating derision that would be directed at them.

Soon, however, the spiral of decline was broken. The Province Medal provided one of world sport’s most heart breaking stories. In this competition, each club puts up 2 Rinks and the club with the highest aggregate score of shots up over 2 games wins. We had 2 victories over Galston and Ayr Country Club with a total of 13 shots up. Fairywell, ( stay with me here) their first opponents didn’t turn up so they were awarded 6 shots, in the second game their opponents were a man short, so they were awarded 3 shots. They were 9 shots up before they had thrown a stone and beat us by 1 shot.

We contested the final of the Province KO.  Having beaten Sorn in the semi-final, a great achievement on it’s own, a much changed rink of David Hope, Peter Galloway, Ken Ross and Peter Reynolds took on Stewarton Heather, the current national holders of this trophy. We gave a very good account of ourselves being peeled at the halfway point but eventually succumbed to their superior skills 7-4. Well done to all who played in these matches.

This year we had two Rinks in the ‘A’ Day League, this led to a head to head which was won in an 8 end thriller by the ‘B’ Rink of Euan Lawrence, Peter Galloway, Richard Morrison and Steell McFadzean. We met again in the Day League Knock Out, in another very tight match, Rink ‘A’  of Ronnie Peat, Jimmy Begg, Jim Dunlop and Ken Ross prevailed. Pealed at the bell, the Skips drew to the button; Ronnie to within a few inches and Robert Boyd, subbing for Euan, only a matter of a couple of inches shorter. So honours even, both matches played in friendly sporting manner typical of Gangrels. Both Rinks finished tied in mid-table of a very competitive league but I think it is worth pointing out that Ronnie’s Rink finished ahead of Euan’s by having lost 3 ends less ( I mention this just to make my report complete and for no other petty reason of one upmanship)!

Ronnie’s Rink played Fairywell in the Day League Knockout final. Always tough opposition, we went down 9-2

All in all, a good season and I see no reason why we cannot build on this next year to restore the glory days of years past.  I, of course, want to thank all the members who turned out to represent the Club and encourage the whole membership to participate in the future."

Trophy Winners 2019 – 20

The trophies won during the season were:

Fraser Cup                              Euan Lawrence

                                                Peter Reynolds

                                                Robert Boyd

                                                Gillian Watson

President’s Cup                       David Hope

                                                Ronnie Peat

                                                Gordon Todd

                                                Steell McFadzean

                                               

Kirkbride Rosebowl               Bella Kennedy (Sub for Euan Lawrence)       

                                                Peter Reynolds          

                                                Robert Boyd  

                                                Gillian Watson          

Drew Duncan Quaich             Euan Lawrence

                                                Peter Reynolds

                                                Robert Boyd

                                                Gillian Watson

                                   

Frame Salver                          Robert Charters

                                               Ronnie Peat

                                               Peter Galloway

                                               David Gray

                                                                                   

Points                                     Robert Boyd (38)

Kennedy Pairs                         Robert Charters and David Gray

Sportsman’s Award                Robert Boyd

Office Bearers and Committee elected for 2020-21

Hon President                         Jim Lyburn

President                                 Peter Reynolds

Vice President                         Anne Hay

Secretary                                 Peter Galloway

Treasurer                                 Ronnie Wilson

Match Secretary                      Ken Ross

Committee                              Robert Charters

                                                Gordon Todd

                                                Gillian Watson

                                                Willie Scott

Past President                         Richard Morrison

Examiner of Accounts            Allan Hastie

On taking on the role of President, Peter (Reynolds) thanked Richard for his successful year in that role and in conclusion, wished all members a good summer.

Rink Numbers and Skips

Availability returns indicate that there will be sufficient Playing Members to resource 6 Rinks with a healthy pool of Reserves (10).  The Skips selected for next season will be:

Peter Reynolds (President), Anne Hay, Francis McCrossin, Ronnie Wilson, Ronnie Peat and        Ken Ross.  Well balanced Rinks for each Skip are in the course of being selected.

Selection of ice times for next season.

An ice bid has been submitted along the same lines as last season namely Mondays at 5.00 pm.  However, to get more of/all the Reserves involved, the Drew Duncan Quaich and Frame Salver events would require 8 Rinks and 4 sheets of ice.  The Rinks for these events would be formed from an amalgam of both Playing and Reserve members.  The ice allocation from Ayr Curlers Limited is not anticipated to be received until about July.  A suggestion has been made to change the format of the Kennedy Pairs to Doubles, the rules and conduct of which will be explained at the practice ice night at the beginning of the season.

Updated Constitution.

No objections or suggested amendments have been received to the updated Constitution drafted and previously distributed for endorsement.  The updated Constitution was adopted.

Election of SC/Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Representatives.

Robert Boyd and Jim Lyburn were endorsed to remain as the respective Representatives for the SC and EJ/Province.

GDPA and Privacy Notice.

The General Data Protection Act and the Club’s Privacy Notice as formulated 2 years ago and available on the Website remains extant.

Sweatshirts.

Crew necked lambswool jerseys embroidered with the Club badge are no longer available.  However, black sweatshirts are as a replacement as are embroidered badges on their own.  If either are required for next season, please advise the Secretary accordingly and an order will be placed.

Conclusion.

This "Review" is deemed to be a minute of the business which would have been conducted by the 2020 AGM of the Club for future administrative and record purposes.

Peter Galloway

Secretary GCC

10 April 2020

MINUTES OF 80TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

CLUB, held at the Ice Rink, 9 Limekiln Road, Ayr, on Monday 18th March 2019 at 8.15 pm.

Honorary President Jim Lyburn was present.

The President, Peter Kennedy, chaired the meeting.

The following members were present:

Bob Cherry	Willie Scott	Ken Ross
Steell McFadzean	Francis McCrossin	Ronnie Wilson
David Hope	George Hodge	Jimmy Begg
Robert Boyd	David Gray	Peter Reynolds
Simon Bloomfield	George Hay	Jim Dunlop
Ronnie Peat	Peter Kennedy	Ernest Mutter
Peter Galloway	Richard Morrison	Euan Lawrence
Gordon Todd	Jimmy Niblock	Jim Lyburn
Austin Thomson	Bella Kennedy

Item 1 - Apologies

Apologies for absence were received from:

Bert McKay, Anne Hay, Alistair Henry, Gillian Watson, Donald Cattanach, Allan Chapman,   Allan Hastie, Jennifer Peat and Harry Peters.

Item 2 - Endorsement of Minutes

The Minutes of the 79th Annual General Meeting dated 20 Mar 18 were endorsed. Proposer, George Hay, Seconder, Robert Boyd.

Item 3 - Actions arising

The Secretary reported on the following minuted actions:

a.        Item 8 - Advance scheduling of Points.  Action complete.

b.       Item 10 - Ice bid.  Action complete.

Item 4 - Financial Statement

The Treasurer, Ronnie Wilson, gave his report having previously circulated the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending 31 Jan 19.  These accounts had been approved by Committee on 5 Mar 19 and signed off by the Examiner of Accounts, Allan Hastie who the Treasurer thanked.  He said that he was pleased to report that the Club’s finances were in a healthy position having achieved a surplus of Income over Expenditure of £1021 which was an increase of £177 on 2018.  He went on to highlight particular beneficial trends in subscription income which stemmed from an increase in Playing and Reserve numbers, an ice cost surplus and the substantially reduced cost of insurance with the Premium falling from £161 to £63.  The Club continued to provide free ice for new members in their first year as a Reserve, a policy agreed at the 2015 AGM.  Five new Reserves had benefitted from this concession but if they continued as Reserves for the new season, they would then be subject to pay ice money for 2019/20 which would generate additional income of about £300.  In concluding, he reported that the Net Assets position at 31 Jan 19 was much healthier than earlier years at £3684 and was at a level which provided a buffer for any unexpected expenditure or delays in recovering ice money from members.  The Treasurer closed by recommending and proposing adoption of the accounts as presented.  This was seconded by Francis McCrossin.

Item 5 - Reviews of past season and presentation of trophies

The President addressed the meeting as follows:  

“ Good evening fellow Gangrels and an increasing number of Ganrelasses to our 80th AGM.  I am afraid that I have been rather, literally, a lame duck President as my ruptured Achilles Tendon prevented me from curling for most of the season.  However, it did not prevent my Rink from having a successful season.  There may be a moral here.  If you want to win a few competitions, fracture your tendon!  Thank you, Bella, for stepping in as my sub.

I am pleased to report that the decline in members has been halted due, to a large degree, to the increase in lady members.  We managed to have a healthy list of 11 Reserves, which was one up on the previous season.  Talking of members, I am delighted that Gillian Watson, whose Grandfather was a founder member of this Club 80 years ago, is becoming a Playing Member next season.  However, George Hodge has decided to join the ranks of the Reserves and Harry Peters has decided to become a Non-Playing Member as he felt that he was not getting value for money for the few games he played as a Reserve.  It is the Committee’s recommendation to continue the practice of not charging new Reserves ice money for their first year of membership.  We need a few more members to get back to fielding 8 Rinks.  Wouldn’t it be great to buck the trend!  If every member persuaded one of their friends, or perhaps their wives, to join the Club, then that would easily achieve the 8 Rinks.  It was also great to see our Honorary President back on the ice again curling with gusto!

We had our usual Inter-Club Matches with Beresford Ladies, Ayr and Alloway and Tarbolton.  They were all thoroughly enjoyable occasions and long may they continue.

Our Secretary continues to fight hard to retain our 5.00 pm ice despite pressure to move to a "standard" ice time of 6.00.  This seems to have been successful for next season.  It is important to retain 5.00 pm ice so that we can carry on having our sociable meal after curling.  I am a great believer in the Club having an active social life which helps make it a Club which is more attractive for new members to join.  On that score, I was delighted that everyone who attended last year’s Club dinner at the Horizon Hotel, which looked after us particularly well, thoroughly enjoyed it.  Our Secretary did an excellent job in chasing members to attend.  He should not have had to chase you to such an extent.  I am delighted that your next President Richard is considering a further social event.

Curling here at Ayr seems to have acclimatised to almost total abolition of Friday curling.  However, Ice Rink overheads continue to rise and ice charges will be increased by 50p per person per session for next season

Your Committee has discussed the Club’s practice of automatically making the President and Vice-President Skips when in office.  With a reduced number of Rinks, this causes stagnation in the progression of members  moving up position in Rinks.  Thus it can take 6 years to move from Lead to Skip.  They therefore have proposed that in future only the current President will be promoted to Skip during his or her Presidency thus allowing other members to progress more quickly up Rink positions.

We would not have such an enjoyable time curling if it were not for various people who contribute to that enjoyment.  I would therefore like to thank them on your behalf:

-   Stephen Adair and his team in Limekiln Caterers and we have seen tonight that he is capable of producing an excellent meal at a very reasonable price;

-   The bar staff under Ann Marie, who happily serve mostly non-alcoholic drinks;

-   Ronnie Peat for keeping us informed with his easy to read website;

-   The other Ronnie, our Treasurer.  He is a treasure indeed for looking after our finances so well that he seamlessly manages to produce a surplus;

-   David Gray for providing the new base to the Kirkbride Rose Bowl to accommodate more names;

-   Ken Ross for all his work in being Match Secretary and whose report we look forward to with great anticipation;

-   My fellow Committee Members for all their input and new ideas, particularly my Vice President Richard.

Thank you all.

I would also like to congratulate, or should it be commiserate, with Robert Boyd for taking on the Chairmanship of Ayr Curling Club.

It was about this time last year that our Secretary, Peter, stunned us by informing us that he was going to start fairly intensive treatment for advanced prostate cancer.  We rallied round offering to take over if his treatment began to overwhelm him.  I think it is an indication of his dedication that not once did he ask for help.  His constant and meticulous running of our Club is something for which we should all be immensely grateful.  We are very lucky to have such an excellent hard-working Secretary.  We are also delighted to hear that he has responded well to his treatment.  Peter, on behalf of us all, thank you so much.

It finally remains for me to wish you all an enjoyable summer and a healthy one so that you will all return fit to take to the ice again in the Autumn and introduce prospective new members to the joy of curling at the practice ice at the end of September."

Report on Open Competitions

Ken Ross, in his role as Match Secretary, then presented his views on the 2018-19 season:

"Not for the first time in my role as Match Secretary and Open Competition Supremo does pride of place go to our Rink in Day League B.  Peter Galloway’s Rink of Euan Lawrence, Richard Morrison and Steell McFadzean have won promotion in 3 successive years and will now take their place in Day League A.  Uniquely, I believe, in the history of Ayrshire Curling, or even possibly since Jimmy Begg was a boy, has the Club had 2 Rinks in the top league.  By any standards, this is a remarkable achievement.  They went unbeaten all year, winning 6 with 1 Peel.  Peter, I know, wishes to acknowledge the sterling role played by Euan in stepping in as Skip for a protracted period when he was absent undergoing treatment and the several Gangrels who played as subs.  Sadly and mysteriously the KO Trophy eluded them as they unaccountably lost in the first round.  This anomaly should not diminish what has been a wonderful season.

Our Day League A Rink of Skip Ronnie Peat, Jimmy Begg, Jim Dunlop and Ken Ross had another strong season finishing 3rd in a very competitive league.  Just today, they played in the KO final against league winners Sorn when unfortunately we turned in our poorest performance of the year.  Suffice to say we shook hands after 6 ends.

Next season I’m sure we all look forward to the 'Derby' matches.  Having 2 Rinks in the same Day League presents us with a potential manpower problem.  Where previously, playing on different days, each Rink called on the other for subs, this will not be possible next season as we will all play on the same day.  At the moment, we only have 2 subs between us; I hope that other Gangrels will answer the call when needed for our 12.00 mid-day matches.  Should any members feel they wish to share in the glory and kudos of joining such an elite group by subbing, please let me know.

Now for the rest of the news.  In our friendly inter-club matches, we defeated Ayr and Alloway by a handsome margin and also beat Tarbolton with 1 match peeled as unfortunately we played with a man short.  The Beresford Ladies as a mixed Rink match is non-competitive.

Members will, I’m sure, recall that a year ago tonight I reported on what was, until then, the most successful season in my reign as Open Competition Mastermind.  I was convinced that my strategy of only fielding Rinks where the average age was less than 75 was the way forward.  Gangrels would, henceforth, be held in the same esteem as Stewarton Heather, Dundonald and Sorn.

What a difference a year makes!  Incredibly, we lost in the 1st round of every competition we played in.  From the Eglinton Jug, Province KO and Medal, Parish Trophy and Rinks Championship, the results were the same.  I can only apologise to the Committee and membership at large for such a lamentable performance.  The culprits are too many to name but I have to take responsibility for such a disaster and fully expect to hear and honour calls from the floor for my resignation!

I would finish as usual by thanking all the members who stepped up to play for the Club last year.  I know you would all prefer to be asleep in front of Emmerdale than come out on a cold night.  You all deserve better than my sarcastic criticism, you probably get enough of that at home.  Thanks to everyone for their participation and I would urge you all to consider putting your name forward to participate in these events."

Trophy Winners 2018 – 19

The trophies won during the season were awarded to the following:

Fraser Cup	Peter Kennedy Ronnie Peat Ronnie Wilson Peter Galloway Bella Kennedy (frequent and regular substitute)
President’s Cup	Peter Kennedy Ronnie Peat Ronnie Wilson Peter Galloway Bella Kennedy (substitute)
Kirkbride Rosebowl	Steell McFadzean Jimmy Begg George Hay   Peter Reynolds
Drew Duncan Quaich	David Gray Euan Lawrence (Jim Nelson substituted) Francis McCrossin Gordon Todd
Frame Salver	Richard Morrison Euan Lawrence George Hay Peter Reynolds
Points	Euan Lawrence (28)
Kennedy Pairs	Euan Lawrence and Ken Ross
Sportsman’s Award	Peter Galloway

Item 6 - Election of Office Bearers

With President Peter standing down, he handed over Presidency to Richard Morrison who assumed the Chair.  President Richard thanked Past President Peter for his contributions while in office and added that he would try and avoid injury.  He then announced that he had chosen Peter Reynolds to be Vice President which he had accepted and this was endorsed by those members present.  The Secretary then stated that there was no Committee member standing down at the end of their 3 year period in office but that 3 vacancies would arise next year and nominations would be welcome prior to the next AGM.  Ernest Mutter (Past President) would be replaced by Peter Kennedy. The Office Bearers and Committee for 2019-20 would therefore be:

Honorary President	Jim Lyburn
President	Richard Morrison
Vice President	Peter Reynolds
Secretary	Peter Galloway
Treasurer	Ronnie Wilson

Match Secretary                 Ken Ross

Committee                             Robert Charters (2)

Anne Hay (1)

David Gray (1)

Jimmy Niblock (1)

                                           Peter Kennedy (1) Past President

Honorary Examiner

of Accounts                           Allan Hastie

Item 7 - Fixing of Subscriptions

The Treasurer reminded the meeting that there had been a debate and review of subscription rates last year which resulted in the Mother Club subscription being set at £43, Non-Mother Club at £24 and Non-Playing at £10.  Given the satisfactory state of the Club accounts as previously stated at Item 4 and in light of Scottish Curling membership fee implications for Non-Mother Club members, he therefore proposed that there be no change to Mother Club and Non-playing subscriptions but that the Non-Mother Club fee be reduced by £1 to £23.  He added that we were unlikely to be advised of the subscription fees for both ACC and Scottish Curling until about Aug 2019.  His proposal to adjust the Club subscriptions to £43, £23 and £10 was accepted unanimously.  It was also unanimously agreed that new reserves would continue not be charged ice fees for their first year of play.          

Item 8 - Rink numbers and selection of Skips

The Secretary thanked the membership for their input and summarised the results of the annual questionnaire returns which indicated sufficient Playing Members to resource 6 Rinks again for next season along with a healthy balance of Reserves (9).  He also highlighted that we would have 2 lady Playing Members. As had been mentioned in the Match Secretary’s Report at Item 5 above, he again drew attention to the shortage of Reserves in the Day League to support 2 Rinks and also highlighted the need for another Playing Member to fill the requirement for entry into the Ayrshire Province Medal (APM).  He asked if there might be any volunteers for both requirements and Willie Scott, Bob Cherry, Peter Kennedy and Francis McCrossin  submitted their names as Day League Reserves and Euan Lawrence as a Playing Member in the APM.                                           Action: Match Sec/Sec He then suggested that if everyone was content, he would work up an events programme very similar in activity level as in this year’s fixture card.  This would then be used to inform the ice bid which had to be with ACL by 10 May 19.  Feedback during the year suggested that the timing of the Points should be returned to late in the season and that the structure of the Kirkbride Rose Bowl amended to permit another Rink into the semi final stage. This the Secretary undertook to do, and to seek to minimise the non-playing time between Points, Pairs and Kirkbride Rose Bowl.                                                         Action:  Sec

The following Skips were elected for the season:

Richard Morrison (Pres), Euan Lawrence, Jimmy Begg, Bob Cherry, Austin Thomson and David Hope.  Given that Robert Charters had been a nominated Skip for this season but his personal circumstances had prevented him playing, in the hope that he would return next season, Austin had very kindly proposed that Robert take his place as Skip.

Item 9 - Election of Scottish Curling/Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Reps

The Secretary proposed and it was agreed that the extant representatives, Robert Boyd (SC) and Jim Lyburn (EJ/AP), should continue.

Item 10 - Selection of ice times for 2019/20

The Secretary sought agreement to continue to bid for Club internal events to be held on Mondays between 5 - 7 pm with drinks and a meal afterwards which was agreed without dissent.The Secretary undertook to bid accordingly.

      Action:  Sec The Secretary then outlined the draft programme of events which would underpin the requisite ice bid. This would total approximately 70 sheets of ice and with the ice charge being increased by 50p per person per session, the overall cost would increase by about £290 and the total cost would be in the region of £7000.  Members were reminded that a 2% discount was available to Clubs who paid in full by 14 Oct 19.  Prompt individual payments to the Club were therefore critical to permit the Treasurer to make this deadline and gain the saving on offer.

    

Item 11 - Any other business

a.            The President’s view was that the inaugural dinner last October had been very good and cost effective.  He asked if the Club wished to repeat the event this year, especially as it was the Club’s 80th Anniversary.  On the second vote, a majority of 18 out of 26 was secured in support of the motion.  Robert Boyd asked that something different from a curling perspective be considered as his wife was not that keen as she did not move in that sporting circle and suggested others may be in a similar position.  Jimmy Niblock said that such an event had been tried in the past in the summer but again it had been a struggle to secure the numbers required. Peter Kennedy suggested that a croquet tournament at Doonholm might have appeal.  Euan Lawrence suggested that Beresford Ladies be invited to attend a dinner function.  General but inconclusive discussion followed with George Hay suggesting that a round robin email be  sent to all members inviting them to attend with the level of response giving a gauge of interest.  This the Secretary undertook to action with a relatively short deadline for replies.                                     Action:  Sec

On the assumption that a favourable return would be achieved, the President proposed an entertainment subsidy of £200 be given from Club funds.  Agreement was given that £300 be donated.  The Vice President suggested that the cost per head be capped at £25.  This was unanimously agreed.

b.            The Secretary reminded everyone that the General Data Protection Act and the Club’s Privacy Notice as issued last year remained extant with no changes.

c.            Robert Boyd, as ACC President Designate, said he hoped for support from the Gangrels in the wide range of activities promoted by ACC throughout the season. He also highlighted the new ACC membership database and the requirement for completion to ensure the membership database was accurate.  The Secretary reminded all Mother Club members to pay their ACC membership fee to the Treasurer and not directly to ACC.  George Hay sought to clarify the overall cost of membership and its composition.  Peter Kennedy asked what considerations had been given to the development and introduction of a controlled entry system to the Ice Rink which would enhance security and payment of membership subscriptions. Robert Boyd replied with an overview of the options being discussed and their respective strengths and weaknesses, not least the initial capital cost.

Item 12 - Date of next meeting

Mon 16 Mar 2020 at 8.15 pm in Ayr Ice Rink (to be confirmed once events programme finalised and aligned with the Frame Salver match date given in the ice allocation).

MINUTES OF 79TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

CLUB, held at the Ice Rink, 9 Limekiln Road, Ayr, on Tuesday 20th March 2018 at 8.15 pm.

Honorary President Jim Lyburn was not present.

The President, Ernest Mutter, occupied the chair.

The following members were present:

Bob Cherry	Willie Scott	Ken Ross
Robert Charters	Francis McCrossin	Ronnie Wilson
David Hope	George Hodge	Jimmy Begg
Robert Boyd	David Gray	Peter Reynolds
Anne Hay	George Hay	Harry Peters
Ronnie Peat	Peter Kennedy	Ernest Mutter
Peter Galloway	Richard Morrison

Item 1 - Apologies

Apologies for absence were received from:

Bert McKay, Jimmy Niblock, Greer Murray, Steell McFadzean, Alistair Henry, Austin Thomson, Donald Cattanach, Alan Brown, Bill Inglis, Jim Dunlop, Euan Frew, Allan Hastie, Jennifer Peat and Euan Lawrence.

Item 2 - Endorsement of Minutes

The Minutes of the 78th Annual General Meeting dated 13 Mar 17 were unanimously endorsed.

Item 3 - Actions arising

The Secretary reported on the following minuted actions:

a.        Item 8 - Subscriptions increase.  Action complete.

b.       Item 9 - Events programme.  Action complete.

c.        Item 11 - Ice bid.  Action complete.

d.       Item 11 - Include development event.  Action complete but poorly attended.

Item 4 - Financial Statement

The Treasurer, Ronnie Wilson, gave his report having circulated the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending 31 Jan 18.  These accounts had been approved by Committee on 8 Mar 18 and signed off by the Auditor, Allan Hastie, on 12 Mar 18.  He addressed points of detail in the accounts such as the income benefits from a donation and the refund of ice money from unused sheets.  He highlighted the particular cost overhead of trophy insurance and the substantial annual increases. While tight control had again been successful in keeping costs low, he suggested that the insurance premiums being paid and expected for the future may no longer be cost effective and value for money.  The values of the Frame Salver and Kirkbride Rose Bowl were discussed as was the composite record of all the Club’s trophies now being kept by the Secretary.  He proposed that the trophy insurance cover be stopped and not renewed for next season.  This was agreed. The Secretary undertook to advise the Insurance Broker accordingly. Action:  Sec. In conclusion, he said that the Club’s financial position had improved and was now much healthier than the same position last year.  He thanked Allan Hastie for his continued role as Examiner of Accounts.  The Treasurer asked that the accounts be adopted as presented which was proposed by George Hay and seconded by Francis McCrossin.

Item 5 - Reviews of past season and presentation of trophies

The President addressed the meeting as follows:  

“Last year when taking office from my predecessor Ken, I noted his exceptional period of success whilst in office, winning 5 trophies in 2 years! I will simply draw a veil over my performance in this area.

At last year’s AGM, considerable concern was expressed regarding the decreasing number of members. It seemed like only yesterday we fielded 10 rinks on a Monday and had a healthy number of reserves. This past season, with no increase in numbers ,we continued for the second year with the revised format of (1) the Fraser Cup with each rink playing each other twice; (2) the Kirkbride Rose Bowl a straight knock out; and (3) the Pairs competition also being a straight knock-out (but held on a Monday). This appears to have been successful and as such the Committee intend retaining this structure for next season.

We fulfilled our long standing inter-club fixtures against Beresford Ladies, Ayr and Alloway and Tarbolton. The Beresford match, as you know, has, for the last couple of years, involved Rinks comprised of players from both Clubs and once again proved to be an enjoyable and friendly occasion. The friendly nature of our inter-club matches continued with our matches against Ayr and Alloway and Tarbolton without any penalties for no-shows.

At the AGM last year we discussed the proposed change in ice times from 5.00 to

6.00. Despite the best efforts of our Secretary, the ice rink reduced the number of

5.00 times available and consequently on 9 occasions we were allocated ice at

6.00pm or later. The traditional meal which the majority of our members enjoyed

after the 5.00 session disappeared and with 8.45 pm ice, many departed for home without even a visit to the bar. For many of us this was a backward step.

Membership numbers remain a concern. In an endeavour to increase numbers we have tried in the past 2 seasons various initiatives such as playing the Disnae Club, placing articles in the Going Out magazine and the OIR Newsletter. Unfortunately these have not been successful. However we need to consider this in the wider context.

With regard to the ongoing search for new members, the recent letter from Ayr Curling Club demonstrates that the fall in membership is endemic in the local game. More and more clubs are seeking out fewer and fewer people taking up our sport. In the 10 years from 2007 to 2017, Member numbers declined by some 27% from 792 to 576. Against this background, all members of Ayr Curling Club were invited to complete a questionnaire looking to the future. Scott Andrews, our Curling Development Officer, has now completed a preliminary analysis of the responses to the questionnaire. Disappointingly only 230 of the current 550 members completed the questionnaire (42%). Of the returns received, 69% of members were over the age of 60; 90% were members of the RCCC; 44% play between 20 and 40 games per year; and most prefer regular ice times. Against a background of falling numbers, increasing costs and ice charges, members were asked if they would be interested in paying a one off fee to cover all their games, (similar to a golf club membership). Not surprisingly those who thought it a good idea were predominantly those playing the higher number of games. There is unlikely to be any major changes in the current financial approach.

Accordingly the Board are planning to stop curling on Fridays next season with few exceptions. This will affect us in so far as the "A" Day League which currently plays on Fridays will be moved to Mondays. The savings by stopping curling on Fridays will enable the Board to hold the curling charges at the current level for next season. I am sure you will agree that keeping down the cost of curling has to be welcomed.

There are several people I would like to thank on your behalf:

-               Limekiln Caterers, as throughout the season they have provided a varied menu, enjoyable meals and have looked after us well with a pleasant and attentive staff; - The bar staff under Ann Marie, although with the drink driving laws we are no longer able to maximize our enjoyment in this area; - and moving on to our own club the Gangrels:

-               Ronnie Peat for producing, editing and publishing our web-site. Even the luddites among us appear to be able to cope with this web site;

-               Ronnie Wilson, our Treasurer, who manages to produce the accounts in such a fashion we never have any questions;

-               All the Committee members for their time and valuable input, particularly Peter my Vice President;

-               but a very special thank you to our Secretary, Peter Galloway. Peter has put in a power of work on our behalf and makes the life of the President ceremonial as he takes care of all day to day issues. Peter my sincere thanks.”

Finally, I would like to conclude my speech by returning to the words of my predecessor who concluded by “urging you all to stay fit and healthy - we need to maintain Rink numbers!”

Report on Open Competitions

Ken Ross, in his role as Match Secretary, then presented his views on the 2017-18 season:

“Members will be well aware that my annual report consists typically of my putting a positive spin on usually a single nugget of curling excellence in the midst of a mix of ‘nearlies’ ,’if onlies’ and first round exits. I am delighted therefore to stand here and announce results in what has been a very successful season.

I would begin with our rink in Day League ‘C’, who in winning their league, have gained promotion for the second year in a row. It cannot be long, surely, before we have two rinks in the top league. Skipped by Peter Galloway along with Euan Lawrence, Richard Morrison and Steell McFadzean they won 5 and lost only 2. Only yesterday, they competed in that league’s K.O. final where they unfortunately lost to Darvel, but a great effort by all concerned.

In the ‘A’ League, our rink of Ronnie Peat, Jimmy Begg, Jim Dunlop and Ken Ross more than consolidated their position in that league by finishing 3rd against strong opposition. They lost in the 2nd round of the K.O. losing to Fairywell.

We won in the Province Medal, a competition decided on the total aggregate number of shots-up between two rinks. Our first rink of Skip Peter Galloway, Robert Boyd, Bob Cherry and Ken Ross beat Crosshill by 2 and our second rink of Skip Euan Lawrence, David Gray, Ronnie Wilson and David Hope beat Ayr Country Club by 7, giving a winning margin of 9. Congratulations to all.

We competed in 2 other finals:

In the Province Knock-out, our rink of Skip Ernest Mutter, Jimmy Begg, David Hope and Ken Ross lost in the final to Crosshill having beaten Dalmellington and Ayr and Alloway.

In the Parish Trophy, a rink skipped by Jimmy Begg lost to a strong Sorn rink having beaten Troon Portland, Dundonald and Tarbolton. Well done to all the Gangrels who played in these matches.

In the Eglinton Jug, we once again gave a good account of ourselves. Rink ‘A’ of Skip Euan Lawrence along with Jimmy Begg, Ernest Mutter and Ken Ross beat Land o’ Burns before going down to Fairywell.

Rink ‘B’ of Skip Ronnie Peat along with Peter Galloway, Jim Dunlop and Steell

McFadzean beat Auchenames and Dundonald before going down to Stewarton

Heather in the group semi final - both rinks losing to traditionally strong opposition. In the Rinks Championship, having beaten Dundonald, we lost to Stewarton, the eventual winners.

I cannot, of course, claim full responsibility for our club’s success this year, as the players also played a role, but I think my tactic of only playing rinks with an average age of 70 is the way forward. This tactic may have to be reviewed as the years pass. Can I once again thank all those members who played a part this season and encourage everyone to consider putting their names forward for next year.”                   

Trophy Winners 2017 – 18

The trophies won during the season were awarded to the following:

Fraser Cup	Robert Boyd Bob Cherry Anne Hay Peter Galloway
President’s Cup	Peter Reynolds Euan Lawrence Ronnie Wilson George Hay
Kirkbride Rosebowl	Richard Morrison

Jimmy Niblock

David Hope  

Jim Dunlop

                                           (with subs Bill Inglis, David Gray and Robert Charters)

                                                                        

Drew Duncan Quaich	Richard Morrison Jimmy Niblock David Hope Jim Dunlop
Frame Salver	Robert Boyd Ronnie Peat Francis McCrossin Jennifer Mutter
Points	David Hope (24)
Kennedy Pairs	Ronnie Wilson and Ken Ross
Sportsman’s Award	Richard Morrison

Item 6 - Election of Office Bearers

With President Ernest standing down, he handed over Presidency to Peter Kennedy who assumed the Chair.  President Peter thanked Past President Ernest for his sterling period in office and added that he hoped to do just as well.  He then announced that he had chosen Richard Morrison to be Vice President which he had accepted and this was approved by those members present.  The Secretary then stated that Committee member standing down at the end of their 3 year period in office was Bert McKay.  Ken Ross (Past President) would be replaced by Ernest Mutter. It was proposed that the vacant place be taken by Robert Charters which was approved by those present.  The Office Bearers and Committee for 2018-19 would therefore be:

Honorary President	Jim Lyburn
President	Peter Kennedy
Vice President	Richard Morrison
Secretary	Peter Galloway
Treasurer	Ronnie Wilson

Match Secretary                 Ken Ross

Committee                             Robert Charters (3)

Anne Hay (2)

David Gray (2)

Jimmy Niblock (2)

                                           Ernest Mutter (1) Past President

Honorary Examiner

of Accounts                           Allan Hastie

Item 7 - Fixing of Subscriptions

The Treasurer reminded the meeting that there had been a debate and review of subscription rates last year which resulted in Mother Club subscription being set at £43, Non-Mother Club at £24 and Non-Playing at £10.  Given the satisfactory state of the Club accounts as previously stated at Item 4, he therefore proposed that there be no change to the extant subscriptions.  He added that we were unlikely to be advised of the subscription fees for both ACC and Scottish Curling until about Aug 2018.  His proposal to hold the Club subscriptions to £43, £24 and £10 was accepted unanimously.  It was also unanimously agreed that new reserves would not be charged ice fees for their first year of play.          

Item 8 - Rink numbers and selection of Skips

The Secretary summarised the results of the annual questionnaire returns which indicated sufficient Playing Members to support 6 Rinks again for next season but that it had been a close run thing.  However, the number of Reserves had increased significantly to 10. He then suggested that if everyone was content, he would work up an events programme very similar in activity level as in this year’s fixture card. This would then be used to inform the ice bid.  In asking for any changes, it was agreed that the timing of the Points should be advanced from the end of the season to the beginning. This the Secretary undertook to do, subject to Sheets 1 and 2 being appropriately marked up which he would investigate.                             Action:  Sec

The following Skips were elected for the season:

Peter Kennedy (Pres), Richard Morrison (Vice Pres), David Gray, Jimmy Niblock, Robert Charters and Steell McFadzean.

Item 9 - Election of Scottish Curling/Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Reps

The Secretary asked if any change was necessary and it was agreed that the extant representatives, Robert Boyd (SC) and Jim Lyburn (EJ/AP), should continue.

Item 10 - Selection of ice times for 2017/18

The Secretary sought agreement to continue to bid for Club internal events to be held on Mondays between 5 - 7 pm with drinks and a meal afterwards. Notwithstanding the anticipated and apparently fixed sessions set out in the forthcoming ice bidding sheets, which had yet to be received, he believed that as had occurred for this season, if the Club had 6 Rinks, took 3 sheets regularly on a prepaid basis, wanted catering facilities and use of the bar, there remained the opportunity to bid for Mondays at 5.00 - 7.00 pm if that was the preferred option for the Club.  However, there was no guarantee we would be allocated what we bid for without exceptions.  When asked for a preference, the majority sought access to ice for Club nights to remain Mondays 5 - 7 pm. The Secretary undertook to bid

accordingly.                                                                                               Action:  Sec

The Secretary then outlined the draft programme of events which would underpin the requisite ice bid. This would total approximately 72 sheets of ice and cost in the region of £6700.  He concluded by saying that he hoped that the commitment made by the Club to book a significant number of sheets of ice and pay for them in advance would be recognised by the Board and that the actual allocation would favour our bid over others who may not pay in advance.

    

Item 11 - Any other business

a.            The President asked if the Honorary President would be remaining in post. The Secretary said that he had no indicators to suggest otherwise.

b.            The Treasurer gave an assurance that Allan Hastie would continue as Honorary Examiner of Accounts.

c.            The President highlighted the successes achieved by the recruitment of 3 new Club members for next season, 2 of which were female.

d.            The President proposed that a formal social event, such as a dinner, as had been a Club feature in the past, be introduced this year, possibly in Aug/Sep.  The consensus view was in favour.

e.            George Hay gave an informative brief on overall curling strategy in Scotland and as it cascaded down to ACC/ACL/Development Group levels.  This in turn lead to the ongoing thrust for the formation of Ayrshire Ice Sports with charitable status.

There was some way still to go before success could be assured but every effort was being made by the Board of ACL to improve the ice rink financial baseline.

f.             David Gray asked about the post of Curling Development Officer and the future for Scott Andrews.  George Hay outlined the need for additional financial resources to be raised and the means of doing so.  Ronnie Peat highlighted that the Development Group were also seeking such funding.  The President requested that the Club’s appreciation be passed on to the Group for the valuable work being done.

g.            Robert Boyd asked if Curling Scotland rules applied in all our internal Club events.  If they did, he asserted that 3 substitutes in the final of the Kirkbride Rose Bowl would not have been permitted.  Active debate then ensued as to the application of the spirit, if not the letter, of the Curling Scotland regulations.  Strict application was considered by some to be unnecessary and possibly damaging to the Club’s ethos and game harmony, especially with limited and shrinking numbers. The matter was drawn to a close and the motion rejected when there was a split vote that no more than 2 substitutes were to be permitted in any Rink in the Kirkbride Rose Bowl competition.

Item 12 - Date of next meeting

Mon 18 Mar 2019 at 8.15 pm in Ayr Ice Rink (to be confirmed once events programme finalised and aligned with Frame Salver match date).

MINUTES OF 78TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

CLUB, held at the Ice Rink, 9 Limekiln Road, Ayr, on Monday 13th March 2017 at 8.15 pm.

Honorary member Jim Lyburn was present.

The President, Ken Ross, occupied the chair.

The following members were present:

Bob Cherry	Willie Scott	Jim Dunlop
Jimmy Niblock	Euan Lawrence	Alistair Henry
David Hope	George Hodge	Jimmy Begg
Jennifer Peat	David Gray	Steell McFadzean
Anne Hay	George Hay	Harry Peters
Ronnie Peat	Peter Kennedy	Ernest Mutter
Peter Galloway	Donald Cattanach	Peter Reynolds
Robert Boyd	Ronnie Wilson
Bill Inglis	Bert McKay
Richard Morrison	Austin Thomson

The President requested that everyone stand in memory of Honorary President,   Roy Penny, and 2 other long serving members, Bob Henderson and Bob Grassom, who has passed away over the period since the last AGM.

Item 1 - Apologies

Apologies for absence were received from:

Francis McCrossin, Robert Charters, Keith Martin, David Kidd, Charlie Jack and   Alan Hastie.

Item 2 - Endorsement of Minutes

The Minutes of the 77th Annual General Meeting dated 14 Mar 16 were unanimously endorsed.

Item 3 - Actions arising

The Secretary reported on the following minuted actions:

a.     Trophy engraving.                                                                             Action complete.

b.    Fixture card amendment.                                                        Action complete.

Item 4 - Financial Statement

The Treasurer, Ronnie Wilson, gave his report having circulated the Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending 31 Jan 17.  These accounts had been approved by Committee on 27 Feb 17 and signed off by the Auditor, Alan Hastie, on 28 Feb 17.  He addressed points of detail in the accounts such as overall membership numbers, ice cost expenditure and other overheads and highlighted variations in the income and expenditure.  Tight control had been successful in keeping costs low.  In conclusion, he said that the Club’s financial position had improved and was now considered satisfactory with a small surplus.  The Treasurer proposed that the accounts be adopted as presented which was proposed by George Hay and seconded by Jim Dunlop.

Item 5 - Reviews of past season and presentation of trophies

The President addressed the meeting as follows:  “At this meeting a year ago, we were all concerned and anxious that the reduced playing membership meant that we only had 6 Rinks.  Whilst the membership numbers remain a concern, I think we can all agree that we had a full and competitive season.  This was due in no small part to our Secretary Peter’s re-jigging of Club competitions to fully occupy our allocated ice times and produce  a continuous flow of games each Monday.  As you know, in the Fraser Cup, each rink played each other twice and the Kirkbride Rose Bowl became a straight knock out.  The Pairs competition proved to be a bit of a headache.  The original plan of 10 pairs playing to a finish using the Schenkel system was abandoned as player call-offs resulted in only 8 pairs remaining.  As a result, a hastily amended plan, whereby the competition became a straight knock-out, was implemented.  This was played out on a Sunday a few weeks ago and was, I think, considered a success by those taking part.

One of the consequences of fewer playing members, was a reduction in the number of substitutes available.  Can I take this opportunity to thank those substitutes who stepped up to help out.  As far as I am aware, 2 members’ wives and 2 non-playing members stepped into the breach during the season; our thanks go to them.

With regard to the ongoing search for new members, the recent letter from Ayr Curling Club demonstrates that the fall in membership is endemic in the local game.  More and more clubs are seeking out fewer and fewer people taking up our sport.  For our own part, in order to supplement ideas put forward in previous years discussion, the Committee decided to invite the Disnae Club to play a friendly match at the start of the season to further enhance our relationship, as yet unsuccessfully.  In addition, our Secretary produced and placed an article in the Going Out magazine, reaching Ayr, Troon and Prestwick.  We placed a similar article in the OIR Newsletter but await a positive reply from these initiatives.  It was suggested in committee that we approach the Junior League with a view to sponsoring juniors as substitutes as happens in at least 1 other Club.  We intend taking this forward.  I’m sure this topic will be returned to later in this meeting when all proposals will be considered.

Another possibly contentious issue faces us concerning the times we play our matches.  Members will know that the ice rink intend to reduce the number of times available to play each day beginning next season.  We are faced with the possibility of our games beginning at 6 pm.  The message from the ice rink is, however, conflicting as there seems to be the possibility of our continuing to play at 5 pm.  Peter is engaged in conversations to try to establish the fact of the matter, however, we can discuss options later in the meeting.

We fulfilled our long standing inter-club fixtures against Beresford Ladies, Ayr and Alloway and Tarbolton.  The Beresford match, as you know, has, for the last couple of years, involved Rinks comprised of players from both Clubs and once again proved to be an enjoyable and friendly occasion.  We crushed Ayr and Alloway, particularly sweet, as there were a few Gangrels in the opposition.  We lost to  a strong Tarbolton team by 1 shot in a keenly contested but friendly game.  We would have won this match had we not incurred a 3 shot penalty as a result of 1 person not turning up.  Please read the Fixture Card and reminding emails!

There are several people I would like to thank on your behalf.  Passion Caterers, not only for tonight’s meal but throughout the season, as many of us stay on for a meal after our game on Mondays.  We are always well looked after by a most pleasant and attentive staff.

To Ronnie Peat for producing, editing and publishing our web-site.  It’s always up to date and contains all we need to know.

Ronnie Wilson, our Treasurer, who works tirelessly to keep us solvent.

All the Committee members for their time and valuable input, particularly Ernest who, as my Vice President, has been most helpful to me with his sound advice during my term.

I would like to single out for special mention, our Secretary, Peter Galloway.  Peter has put in a power of work on our behalf.  Negotiating the labrynthine complexities of our ice bid and allocation; having at short notice to rearrange the formats of our Club competitions; sourcing and editing the Fixture Card to the Club’s financial advantage, as well as his normal duties.  Thanks a lot Peter.

Finally, I would urge you all to stay fit and healthy - we must maintain Rink numbers!  Have a good summer and I look forward to seeing you all again in October.”

Report on Open Competitions

Ken Ross, in his role as Match Secretary, then presented his views on the 2016-17 season.

“ My report will, of necessity, be brief!  This season, I decided on a novel method of selecting the Rinks - I decided to disregard anyone who qualified for a Bus Pass.  To my dismay, I found that I couldn’t put a Rink together!  I therefore went back to my tried and tested technique of selecting on ability, form and talent, moulding together the disparate personalities and characters to obtain the best balance; once again with little success.  Such is my ineptitude, I will expect calls from the floor for my resignation …. otherwise  I will once again resort to laying poor performance firmly at the door of the players!

It wasn’t all doom and gloom.

Not for the first time, we look to our Day League D Rink for curling success.  The Rink of Peter Galloway, Euan Lawrence, Richard Morrison and Donald Cattanach won their League comfortably winning 6 out of 7 matches and gaining promotion.  Next Monday they contest the Knock-Out final and we wish them well with the prospect of a League and Cup double!!

Our League A Rink of Ronnie Peat, Jimmy Begg, Jim Dunlop and Ken Ross had a strong season finishing 3rd winning 4, losing 3.

Many congratulations to them all.

We choose this year to withdraw from those competitions which either came too early in our season or began play at 9.30 pm.  As a result, our fixture load was not as heavy as previous seasons.

Now for the doom and gloom.

The Eglinton Jug came and went.  Rink A of David Gray, Peter Galloway, Steell McFadzean and Jim Dunlop, having beaten St Leonards in the first round, then lost to Ayr.  Rink B of Jimmy Begg, Ernest Mutter, Francis McCrossin and Ken Ross lost to Ayr and Alloway  in the first round.

In the Province Knock-Out, having beaten a strong Galston Rink in the first round, our Rink of Peter Galloway, Robert Boyd, Steel McFadzean  and Richard Morrison lost to an even stronger Sorn.

In the Rinks Championship and the Parish trophy, we lost in the first round to Dundonald on each occasion.

In the Province Medal, where we had 2 Rinks, we won 1 and lost 1.

Although I may make gentle fun of our record in competition this season, it is clear we are still able to pull off some excellent results.  I would, on behalf of the Club, wish to thank those members who put their names forward for their time and effort on our behalf.  Despite this not being one of our more memorable years result-wise, the matches are always keenly fought and great fun.  I would therefore urge all playing members to consider putting their names forward for selection these competitions.                                     

Prize Winners 2016 – 17

The prizes won during the season were awarded to the following:

Fraser Cup                              Ken Ross

                                                Bob Cherry

                                                Euan Lawrence

                                                Francis McCrossin

President’s Cup                       Ken Ross

                                                Bob Cherry

                                                Euan Lawrence

                                                Francis McCrossin

Kirkbride Rosebowl               Robert Boyd              

                                                Jimmy Niblock           

                                                Bert McKay   

                                                Jim Dunlop                             

                                                                       

Drew Duncan Quaich Jimmy Niblock

                                                Bert McKay

                                                Jim Dunlop

                                                Willie Scott

                                   

Frame Salver               Ernest Mutter

                                                David Gray

                                                Bert McKay

                                                Anne Hay

                       

Points                                      Ronnie Peat and Bob Cherry (20)

Kennedy Pairs             Ronnie Peat and Ronnie Wilson

Sportsman’s Award                 Bert McKay

Item 6 - Election of Hon President

The President said that with the sad and unexpected demise last month of Roy Penny, there was again a vacancy for Hon Pres.  The Committee had discussed this at its last meeting and had a proposal which was hoped all members would approve .  This proposal was for a member of very long standing namely Jim Lyburn.  This nomination was accepted unanimously and he was elected as Hon Pres.  He thanked the membership for their vote of confidence, the honour and accepted the role.  He added that he had been a Gangrel for about 50 years and that the Club was very special to him and a pleasure to be with.  He appreciated he has big shoes to fill  in following his predecessors Jim Henry and Roy Penny.

Item 6 - Election of Office Bearers

With President Ken standing down, he handed over Presidency to Ernest Mutter who assumed the Chair.  President Ernest thanked Past President Ken for his exceptional period in office, especially with 5 prizes in 2 years!  He added that the future of the Club was important and that he hoped to do well.  The Secretary then stated that Committee members also standing down at the end of their 3 years period in office were Colin Naismith, Harry Peters and David Hope.  Francis McCrossin (Past President) would be replaced by Ken Ross.  Taking the vacant  places would be  Anne Hay, David Gray and Jimmy Niblock.  The Office Bearers and Committee for 2017-18 would therefore be:

Honorary President                Jim Lyburn

President                                 Ernest Mutter

Vice President             Peter Kennedy

Secretary                                 Peter Galloway

Treasurer                                Ronnie Wilson

Committee                              Bert McKay (1)

                                                Anne Hay (3)

                                                David Gray (3)

                                                Jimmy Niblock (3)

                                           Ken Ross (1) Past President

Honorary Auditor                  Allan Hastie

Item 8 - Fixing of Subscriptions

The Treasurer reminded the meeting that there had been a significant debate and review of subscription rates last year which resulted in Mother Club subscription being set at £42, Non-Mother Club at £23 and Non Playing at £10.  Mother Club members also had RCCC membership at £19 added on.  Despite the relatively satisfactory state of the Club accounts as previously stated at Item 4, he suggested that Club expenses such as printing, engraving, competition entry fees etc were likely to rise next year and he thus proposed that the Mother and Non-Mother Club subscriptions be increased by £1 to £43 and £24 respectively.  The Non Playing subscription would remain at £10.  George Hay asked what might happen with Ayr Curling Club subscriptions which the Treasurer addressed by saying that we await  ACL guidance as the Club just collects and pass it on to the originator.  The same would be true for RCCC rates.  He added that we were unlikely to know the new subscription fee for both ACC and RCCC until about Jun 17.  His proposal to increase the Club subscriptions to £43 and £24 was accepted unanimously.                                                                                                                         Action:   Tres/All

Item 9 - Rink numbers and selection of Skips

As an apt introduction to the selection of Skips for next season, the President asked Jimmy Begg to recite a poem he had written on the subject which is now framed and accompanies the award of the President’s Cup.  This he did to the enjoyment and amusement of those present. The Secretary then summarised the results of the annual questionnaire returns which indicated sufficient Playing Members to support 6 Rinks again for next season.  However, the number of Reserves was low at 4.  The decline in Playing Member numbers continues with 3 electing not to play next season.  The number electing to participate in Pairs was relatively low (8 pairs) with the historic trend in drop outs at short notice close to the date of play likely to have an impact.  In external/RCCC sponsored competitions, support had been sufficient with interest also being shown to submit a Rink in both the Ayr CC opening and closing bonspiels, if invited to do so.  He then suggested that if everyone was content, he would work up an events programme very similar in activity level as in this year’s fixture card.  This would then be used to inform the ice bid.  In asking for any changes, it was agreed that the format for the Pairs should be moved away from a Sunday as trialled this year and incorporated into the week day programme.  This the Secretary undertook to do giving due cognisance to the outcome of the debate which would follow at Item 11 regarding ACL intended changes to ice sessions as opposed to favoured day/times for Club events.                                     Action:  Sec

The following Skips were elected for the season:

Ernest Mutter (Pres), Peter Kennedy (Vice Pres), Richard Morrison, Peter Reynolds, Robert Boyd and David Gray.

Item 10 - Election of RCCC/Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Reps

The Secretary asked if any change was necessary and sought confirmation from the extant representatives, Robert Boyd (RCCC) and Jim Lyburn (EJ/AP), that they were content to continue.  This assurance was given.

Item 11 - Selection of ice times for 2017/18

The Secretary opened this item by saying that he had circulated ACL letters which set out the changes that they intended to implement.  Notwithstanding the apparently  fixed sessions set out therein, he added that following a discussion with the ACL MD, if the Club had 6 Rinks, took 3 sheets regularly on a prepaid basis, wanted catering facilities and use of the bar, there may be room for manoeuvre to bid for Monday’s at 5.00 - 7.00 pm if that was the preferred option for the Club.  However, there was no guarantee we would be allocated what we bid for without exceptions.  Ronnie Peat asked about catering on site to accommodate the new sessions being implemented.  The President replied that catering was an issue especially to meet later finish times.  When asked for a preference, the majority sought access to ice for Club nights to remain Mondays 5 - 7 pm.  The Secretary undertook to bid accordingly. Action:  Sec

The topic of Club membership numbers was then raised and the President asked Euan Lawrence to summarise his recent Development Group letter on this issue.  This he did emphasising that cost containment had driven the ACL decisions, occasioned by loss in income by reduced numbers on the ice.  The need therefore fell on everyone to induct new members and to actively take part in Ayr Ice Rink activities and support all events.  We must get involved and get more people into curling.  Ronnie Peat echoed Euan’s views.  Robert Boyd asked who was on Facebook?  Eleven of those present indicated they were so Robert said they should make comment on and share Ayr Ice Rink.  George Hay stated that unanticipated returned ice had caused fiscal tension as the planned budget had been impaired by this unprecedented series of events.  Alistair Henry endorsed what Ronnie Peat and Euan Lawrence had said and gave an example of what had been done and achieved in Livingstone. Euan then gave some background on successes elsewhere in Scotland and the RCCC aim to secure a part time Development Officer in post. The Treasurer asked George Hay why all Clubs were not mandated to pay for their ice bid up front and George replied that application of such pressure had to be carefully measured as it could be counter productive.  Peter Kennedy suggested that 1 Club night be allocated to fun and the introduction of new members.  Jimmy Begg asked for more detail on Juniors sponsorship and the President then provided feedback on such a scheme with Symington CC.  Appreciable debate and views then  ensued on what best to do to cultivate interest in  curling and membership of the Gangrels.  The Secretary was tasked to contact the Juniors Club regarding sponsorship and to consider the introduction of a 1 night development event in the Club’s fixtures for next season.                                                               Action:   Sec

The President concluded this item by saying that curling was not alone in feeling the pinch through a lack of participation. This was becoming endemic throughout all sports and he then provided some statistics on the fall in other arenas.

    

Item 12 - Any other business

No items were raised.

Item 13 - Date of next meeting

Mon 12 Mar 18 at 8.30 pm in Ayr Ice Rink (to be confirmed once events programme finalised and aligned with Silver Salver match date).

MINUTES OF 77TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

CLUB, held at the Ice Rink, 9 Limekiln Road, Ayr, on Monday 14th March 2016 at 8.30 pm.

Honorary members  Roy Penny and Jim Lyburn were present.

The President, Francis McCrossin, occupied the chair.

The following members were present:

Bob Cherry	Ken Ross	Jim Dunlop
Jimmy Niblock	Euan Lawrence	Alistair Henry
David Hope	George Hodge	Jimmy Begg
Bob Grassom	David Gray	Steell McFadzean
Robert Charters	George Hay	Harry Peters
Ronnie Peat	Peter Kennedy	Alan K Brown
Peter Galloway	Colin Naismith	Bert McKay
Robert Boyd	Ronnie Wilson	Austin Thomson
Charlie Jack	Jim Loch	Anne Hay
Richard Morrison	Greer Murray

Item 1 - Apologies

Apologies for absence were received from:

Peter Reynolds, Keith Martin, Donald Cattanach, Bill Inglis, David Kidd and Alan Hastie.

The President requested that all stand in memory of a long serving member and Honorary President, Jim Henry, who passed away last November.

Item 2 - Endorsement of Minutes

The Minutes of the 76th Annual General Meeting dated 16 Mar 15 were unanimously endorsed.

Item 3 - Actions arising

The Secretary reported on the following minuted actions:

a.     Lady members.                                                                                  Action complete.

b.    Reserve membership ice fee (free for 1 year).                        Action complete.

c.     Explore integration with other clubs (Tarbolton).                      Action complete.

d.    Fixture adjustments for season.                                               Action complete.

e.    Slow play.                                                                                 Action complete.

Item 4 - Financial Statement

The Treasurer, Ronnie Wilson, gave his report having circulated the income and expenditure account for the year ending 31 Jan 16 and the balance sheet.  These accounts had been approved by Committee on 8 Feb 16 and signed off by the Auditor, Alan Hastie, on 22 Feb 16.  He addressed points of detail in the accounts and highlighted variations in the income and expenditure.  In conclusion, he said that the Club was in generally satisfactory financial position but that cash flow was tight.  Jimmy Niblock asked why an ice gratuity payment had not been made which was then discussed and closed with the Treasurer stating that it was not accepted policy to make such a donation.  The Treasurer proposed that the accounts be adopted as presented which was seconded by George Hay.

Item 5 - Reviews of past season and presentation of trophies

The President opened this item by making the following observations.  “Our start of season training evening on 5 Oct was reasonably well attended.  Personally, I wonder whether this should be combined with the Points competition which provides a unique solo test of various skills.  This is not a criticism of the Euan Lawrence laser gun which in my case resulted in pilot error trying to guide the stone along the path of the laser!

This season we returned to an 8 rink format as the 7 rink format of the previous session had not been totally successful.  Alas, at the outset we realised that there were likely to be difficulties in fielding 8 full rinks due to the reduced number of reserves.  So the 3 shot penalty for a rink with only 3 players was waived at the beginning of the season; there were mixed views on this but it seemed necessary in our stretched circumstances.

Inter club games produced mixed success; we lost to Ayr and Alloway but reversed last years’s result against Tarbolton to win by 1 shot.  The other inter club game was with Beresford Ladies; both clubs won because on this occasion we mixed the teams with Gangrels at 2 and Skip and the Ladies at Lead and 3.  All agreed it was a very successful and enjoyable evening.

Peter Galloway (Sec) and I have had a meeting with the Beresford President and Vive President to discuss, among other things, next season’s format; we agreed that once the participants of both clubs are known, the Presidents will finalise the teams; our suggestion to reverse roles next season may be partly taken up. And in discussing membership numbers, the Beresford President agreed to tell her members at their AGM of the opportunity for any of their members to join Gangrels on a reserve or playing member basis.  We shall see what transpires.

Yes we are in need of more members - a statement of the obvious!  This is the reason the Secretary issued the questionnaire a few weeks ago so that the Committee could plan early for next season.  Present indications are that we can field at least 6 rinks with a reasonable number of reserves.  This will be discussed further in the Agenda.

We also want to get our ice application in promptly with a view to ensuring we continue to enjoy 5 pm ice on a Monday.  The Committee is of the view that 5 pm is our preference.  This will be discussed further under Agenda Item 9.  We are aware that there is some thought in the mind of Ayr Curling Club to change from 5, 7.15 and 9.30 pm ice times to 6 and 8.30 pm on 1 evening of the week; this can be discussed later in the meeting.  I suspect we would not care for 6 pm ice as it might jeopardise our dining arrangements after our games.  Something to think about.  Approaches have been made to other clubs but 5 pm appears to be a difficult time for those working.

Last year there was discussion of slow play and how to resolve it.  One way is to be ready for play WHEN the bell rings.  This year, we have been encouraging players to go down earlier.  Now one measure of good play is achieving 8 ends in the session.  This seems to be working as Ronnie Peat has done a study of the cards for this season.  He found there were 31 games of 8 ends and 31 of 7 ends but some of the 7 end games had scores which rendered an 8th end meaningless!  We think there has been an improvement; no doubt this subject will be discussed later in the meeting.

At the beginning of this meeting, I welcomed members to the 77th AGM of the club.  Perhaps it would have been more appropriate to have welcomed members to the 77th and 1st AGMs.  77th to recognise the founding of the club in 1939 and the 1st to recognise the change in out Constitution last year to extend the membership to ladies.  You will be aware that, to date, we have 1 lady playing member, Anne Hay, who had the courage to join us and played in husband George’s rink.  She acquitted herself very well and has proved more than an asset but also, I hope, as an ambassadress for our club.

Gentlemen, prepare yourselves for a surprise and possibly even a shock.  Let me quote from Anne Hay’s email to the Secretary when returning her questionnaire to him: “I would like to thank you and all the members for making me so welcome in joining the Gangrels.  I have so enjoyed the season and have loved the atmosphere in the club.  You are all true gentlemen and curl for the love of curling.”  Gentlemen, what a beautiful compliment; we must be doing something right.  Anne, thank you very much for your very kind remarks and we all look forward to your continued playing membership of the club and to more of your gender to join us.

Finally, may I thank my hard working Committee for all their support throughout the season; and hard working is no exaggeration because there have been more meetings than usual.  To immediate past President Ronnie “Webmaster” Peat, many thanks for your work on the website and your succinct and timely reports on our games.  The good news is that Ronnie is happy to continue looking after the website and keeping it up to date.  To Ken Ross, shortly to become President, may I thank you for your work as Match Secretary, no easy task.  The good news is that the Committee were unanimous is asking him to continue to shoulder this burden and provide further witty reports on how Gangrels fared in competitions.  Lastly, may I congratulate Peter Galloway on a splendid first season as Secretary.  Members will not be surprised to learn that Peter has produced Agendas and Minutes with military precision and accuracy!  Thank you, Peter, 1 down and only 9 to go for you to equal Bob Cherry’s tenure of office”.

In concluding his report, the President called on the Match Secretary to give his overview of Open Competitions.

Report on Open Competitions

Ken Ross then presented his views on the 2015-16 season.

“For the second year in a row I have had to delay writing up my report as I anxiously awaited the result of the Day League “D” Knock-out final played at 12 o’clock today.  You can imagine my joy and relief when word came through that the gallant rink of Colin Naismith, Peter Galloway, Richard Morrison and Alan Brown won their final by 9 shots to 3 against Stair, thus avoiding a winless season for the club.  The same rink finished second in their league, winning 5 and losing 2 with 1 peel.  When the history of the club is written, their names will surely be writ large!  Well done and congratulations to you all

I must confess that until today, curling highlights had been few and far between.  In the “close but no cigar” category, the most painful was in the Province Medal.  Our 2 rinks both won their matches.  Bob Cherry, David Gray, Ronnie Wilson and Ken Ross beat Symington by 1 shot; Peter Galloway, Ronnie Peat, Robert Boyd and Richard Morrison beat Beresford by 4 shots but under competition rules on count back, lost by 1 shot 15 to 16 to Dalmellington.

Again we had 2 rinks in the Eglinton Jug.  Rink A lost in the first round to Fairywell however, Rink B of David Gray, Peter Galloway, Steell McFadzean and Richard Morrison beat Ayr and Alloway and then Galston before falling to Stewart Heather.  Congratulations to them.

Interestingly, the Ross Low began on 1st Oct while our season began on the 12th!  Team selection is difficult when many Gangrels were in sunnier climes however, our rink of Ken Ross, Colin Naismith, Ernest Mutter and Jim Loch won through the opening round-robin only to lose to Dundonald in the semi-final.

The Indoor Grand Match between North and South saw our rink of Francis McCrossin, David Gray, Jimmy Begg and Colin Naismith lose at home to Loch Ness.Our other rink of Ronnie Peat, Peter Galloway, Robert Boyd and Peter Kennedy had more success in Forfar by beating Cawder House.  Overall, the South was triumphant.

The Kyle and Carrick Challenge League saw us finish in mid-table, the 9.30 pm starts taking their toll!  We may review our involvement in this competition as no-one seems keen to play at this late hour.

The Province Knock-Out saw a first round loss to Dundonald, a similar result in the Rinks Championship, although a strong Galston rink needed an extra end.  The same Galston ended our involvement in the Parish Trophy.

At the time of writing, our Day League “A” rink of Ronnie Peat, Jimmy Begg, Jim Dunlop and Ken Ross were lying in 3rd place having won 4 and lost 3.  Ronnie was keen to have it recorded that we had defeated Galston and Sorn!  We failed to retain the Knock-Out Trophy, losing in the first round.

The Robertson Trophy is still underway.

Finally, can I thank all those members who made themselves available to play in these matches, especially my ‘go-to’ people who have been willing to step in when we are stretched.  A reduced playing membership does put us under some pressure to compete in all the competitions.  So, to those of you who have indicated a desire to play next season, thank you.  To the others, please give it a thought, irrespective of the results, it’s always good fun!”

                                      

Prize Winners 2015 – 16

The prizes won during the season were awarded to the following:

Fraser Cup                              Colin Naismith

                                                Robert Charters

                                                Steel McFadzean

                                                Charlie Jack

President’s Cup                       Ken Ross

                                                Ernest Mutter

                                                Jimmy Niblock

                                                Ronnie Peat

Kirkbride Rosebowl               High Road                   Low Road

                                                Peter Kennedy            Peter Galloway

                                                Robert Boyd               Peter Reynolds

                                                Bert McKay                 Bob Cherry

                                                Austin Thomson         Jim Loch

                                                                           (Subs A Brown & R Peat in final)

Drew Duncan Quaich Peter Galloway

                                                Peter Reynolds

                                                Bob Cherry

                                                Jim Loch

                                   

Frame Salver               Ken Ross

                                                Robert Charters

                                                David Hope

                                                Jim Loch

                       

Points                                      David Hope (28)

Kennedy Pairs             Ken Ross and Ronnie Peat

Sportsman’s Award                 Alistair Henry

Item 7 - Election of Hon President

Before moving on to the scheduled Item 6 on the Agenda, the President said he wished to take this item first.  He said that with the death last November of Jim Henry, there was now a vacancy for Hon Pres.  The Committee had discussed this at its last meeting and had a proposal which was hoped all members would approve with acclamation.  This proposal was for a member of very long standing who had served the Club with great distinction for very many years, namely Roy Penny.  This nomination was accepted unanimously and Roy Penny elected as Hon Pres.  He thanked the membership for their vote of confidence and accepted the role.

Item 6 - Election of Office Bearers

With President Francis standing down, he handed over the baton of Presidency to Ken Ross who assumed the Chair.  The Secretary stated that Committee members also standing down were Ronnie Peat and Bob Cherry.  Taking their place would be Ernest Mutter (Vice Pres) and Bert McKay.  The Office Bearers and Committee for 2016-17 would therefore be:

Honorary President                Roy Penny

President                                 Ken Ross

Vice President             Ernest Mutter

Secretary                                 Peter Galloway

Treasurer                                Ronnie Wilson

Committee                              Harry Peters (1)

                                                Colin Naismith (1)

                                                David Hope (1)

                                                Bert McKay (3)

Honorary Auditor                  Allan Hastie

Item 8 - Fixing of Subscriptions

The Treasurer at Item 4  had already reported the perceived difficult financial times ahead.  He said that cost savings could be derived from stopping engraving on trophies, reducing the insurance cover on them, cease issuing a fixture card, reduce competition entries and applying stringent controls over administrative expenditure.  Other overheads we could not control were RCCC subs, competition entry fees and ice costs.  He concluded by recommending that trophy engraving be stopped and have a 2 tier subscription rate of mother club members £39 and non-mother club member £20.   RCCC subs would stay the same and only be paid by mother club members.  He added that this would raise about £160/year and give a better working cash surplus over the years.  Robert Boyd questioned how such a new structure would generate a surplus.  This the Treasurer sought to address in detail.  George Hay then asked if RCCC would return double paid subscriptions which the Treasurer said was highly unlikely.  David Gray sought an assurance that the new subscriptions being proposed would include the production of a “proper”fixture card.  Robert Boyd then said that he objected strongly to the proposal that trophy engraving would not be done.  The Secretary gave an assurance that a data base of awards would still be kept electronically and that engraving space on the trophies was, in general, sufficient for some years to come.  Charlie Jack opined that engraving should not be required if  a data base was being maintained.  Given the strength of the debate and varying views, the President sought to summarise the situation and then asked for a vote on trophy engraving to continue.  This resulted in 17 votes in favour and 9 against.  The Secretary was then tasked to have the trophies engraved.                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Action:    Sec

Bob Cherry then suggested that if the engraving and the production of a fixture card was to continue, then an increase in subscriptions would be apposite.  Further debate ensued which the Treasurer sought to control especially with regard to having split subscription levies for mother/non-mother club members and the application of RCCC subs.  A vote was then taken on splitting the subscriptions which was agreed.  The Treasurer then recommended that the subscriptions be set at £42 for Mother club members and £23 for non-mother club members.  This was agreed.  Jimmy Begg then suggested that an annual increase in subscriptions should be the norm.  Richard Morrison questioned the fiscal impact of having new reserves pay so little.  This generated further discussion  on the rationale of having reserves and their use.  Bob Cherry then clarified the reason for the extant agreement that new reserves do not pay to play for their first year as a member.

Item 9 - Rink numbers and selection of Skips

The Secretary briefed the meeting on the basis of planning being made for 6 Rinks.  Discussed then followed on scheduled playing times and the possible changes that might be imposed by Ayr Curlers/ACC in terms of ice allocations.  The consensus view was that club games scheduled for 5 or 6 pm would be acceptable.

The following Skips were elected for the season:

Ken Ross, Ernest Mutter, Peter Galloway, Richard Morrison, Peter Reynolds       and Robert Boyd.       

Item 10 - Election of RCCC/Eglinton Jug/Ayrshire Province Reps

The Secretary proposed that there be no change and that the extant representatives Robert Boyd (RCCC) and  Jim Lyburn (EJ/AP) be re-elected.  This was unanimously agreed.

Item 11 - Any other business 

a.   Jimmy Niblock requested that the list of Past Presidents on the back of the fixture card be amended such that the 1978-79 entry read “S Y McKechnie”     Action:  Sec

b.  Robert Boyd asked why the Committee had not done enough to generate new members.  The President replied that they had tried.  Charlie Jack proffered that individuals had also tried and that some success had been achieved.  Peter Kennedy said that it was not just the Committee but all members who had a responsibility to induct new members.  Ronnie Peat reported that his wife had asked to be a reserve.  The President drew the discussion to a close by saying that as much as possible was and would continue to be done to generate new members.

c.   Alastair Henry voiced his delight in receiving the Sportsman Award and thanked the membership for selecting him.

d.   Roy Penny, now Hon Pres, thanked all members for their support during what had been a difficult year for him.

Item 12 - Date of next meeting

Mon 13 Mar 17 at 2030 in Ayr Ice Rink.

                                                         MINUTES OF MEETING OF 76TH ANNUAL

                                                         GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

                                                         CLUB, held at the Ice Rink, 9 Limekiln Road, Ayr, on

                                                         Monday 16th March 2015 at 8.15 pm.

Honorary members Jim Henry, Roy Penny and Jim Lyburn were present.

The President, Ronnie Peat, occupied the chair.

The following members were present:

Bob Cherry	Ken Ross	Jim Dunlop
Jimmy Niblock	Euan Lawrence	Allan Hastie
David Hope	George Hodge	Jimmy Begg
Bob Grassom	David Gray	Steell McFadzean
Robert Charters	George Hay	Harry Peters
Jim Henry	Ernest Mutter	Alan K Brown
Peter Galloway	Colin Naismith	Bert McKay
Gerry Watson	Ronnie Wilson	Francis McCrossin
Charlie Jack

Apologies for absence were received from:

• Robert Boyd               David Kidd                  Forbes Watson

• One member died:  Jim Watson (Honorary President)

The Minutes of the 75th Annual General Meeting were approved.  There were no matters arising and the Minutes were accepted as a true record.  Proposed by Charlie Jack, seconded by George Hay. 

Financial Statement

Ronnie Wilson went through the Financial Statement.  Apart from the 75^th Bonspiel expenditure, the Club would have seen a surplus. RCCC subscriptions are sharply reduced owing to removal of a number of former members. There is provision in accounts for the stones engraving/sponsorship. The position is fairly healthy.

The accounts were approved. Proposed by Ronnie Wilson and seconded by Jim Dunlop.

Review of the Past Season

Even before we had our Opening Day, our season got off to a great start with a very successful 75^th Charter Bonspiel and meal. 

We invited clubs with whom we shared many of the highlights of those 75 years - Ayr & Alloway, Tarbolton, Beresford Ladies, Ayr Curling Club,  DAFS and, in an effort to remind us that we pride ourselves on being a Training Club, The Disnae Club.

As I said at the time, the Gangrels took their motto “The Game First, The Result Second” very much to heart, and we made sure that none of our visitors departed on the losing side.  I was genuinely pleased that Ronnie Wilson’s team somehow managed a draw against Ayr Curling Club, so we could find a home for the prize to the Highest Up Gangrels Rink.

Thereafter, we had an excellent meal followed by a toast to the club from the RCCC Vice President Billy Howat, a reply  and toast to Our Guests from me, which was responded to by Alistair Henry   and a final flourish from our newly appointed Honorary President,  Jim Henry.

The comments were all very positive and I think everyone enjoyed themselves.  I’ll be thanking my committee later, but special thanks go to Bob, Ronnie and Francis who did a great job organising the event. Francis also did the vote of thanks.

So after all that, we started curling. 

We had a well-received Training night in October and the leagues were very competitive but because we were only 7 teams, a bit different.  We will be talking about options for running the club later this evening, but I‘d like to thank everyone for their forbearance in sometimes difficult circumstances.  I have certainly enjoyed my curling. I hope you have too. I’m conscious that round about Feb and March, people go on holiday and they have many different strands of their lives to fit in.  I personally think we could help ourselves if we try where possible to have Gangrels on a Monday evening.

In our matches against other clubs, we had an excellent game against Beresford Ladies, followed by some good chat at the meal.

The game against Tarbolton was exceedingly close, but our opposition won by a single shot over the two games.  However, we managed to win both games in our win over Ayr & Alloway.  Thanks to everyone who took part in these matches.

In November, Jimmy Begg and I had the honour of representing the Gangrels at Tarbolton’s Bicentenary  Bonspiel and Dinner.  Jimmy’s recitation of “Oor Skip” having been aired at our own dinner was very well received at the Tarbolton event.

Another great honour was that Gangrels was one of 4 clubs chosen to represent Ayr in the match against the Swiss Touring Team. Our team was myself, Robert Boyd, Jimmy Begg and Bob Cherry, and we had a handsome victory by 16 shots to 4. The dinner that followed was one of the most entertaining that I’ve been to, with a truly remarkable performance by one of the world’s foremost champion yodelers, accompanied by a trio on organ, accordion and saw!   The evening was of course most memorable for a rendition of “Oor Skip” by “Oor Jimmy”, in broad Ayrshire and his own brand of broad English, which I think was understood by the Swiss.

Gentlemen, throughout this year I have had great support from your committee. You have already heard from Ronnie, and I’m sure you’ll agree that he looks after our finances extremely well.  He also took charge of the arrangements for helping purchase the new curling stones.

You will very soon hear from Ken Ross, with his Report on the Open Competitions including some spectacular news from today. Ken has performed his duties very diligently. We have been well supported by Peter Galloway, Peter Reynolds and Ken Ross who are the other members of committee.  David Moulds unfortunately was not able to be here during the season.  Thanks to all for their hard work throughout the year.

Which leaves Bob Cherry.

Bob has been our Secretary for 10 years and he has decided that after these 10 years it’s time to go. He has done a fantastic job.  I don’t want to go in to all the things he does in detail, because obviously we need to find someone to fill his boots – don’t panic, we have someone!   Bob has worked tirelessly. He has also, during these years, been our President, taken trips to the far East and America, and God knows where else, done a full time job – there are not many of us who still understand what that means – and kept the Gangrels running smoothly.  Bob, thank you for all your efforts.  Gentlemen would you please join with me in thanking Bob.

That concludes my report.

Report on Open Competitions

(Match Secretary’s Report 2014/2015)

Today, Monday 16^th March 2015, will surely go down as one of the club’s finest. At lunchtime today, after winning nothing all season, we won two titles. In the finals of the Day League Knock-out Competition the Gangrels Rinks in the ‘A’ and ‘D’ sections were victorious over stiff opposition.

In the ‘A’ group, our rink of Ronnie Peat, Ernest Mutter (subbing for Jimmy Begg), Jim Dunlop and Ken Ross defeated Tarbolton in a tight match by two shots, having lost Jim to injury in the first end. We wish you a speedy recover Jim.

In the ‘D’ group our rink of Allan Brown, Colin Naismith (subbing for Jim Henry), Richard Morrison and Peter Galloway overcame Troon Portland in a match in which they were always in control.

I think Jimmy Begg should be inspired to write a poem in the Ayrshire dialect about our gallant members or at least Bob Dylan should write a song. Congratulations to all.

Until today our season had not exactly set the heather on fire.

Mention must be made of our rink in the Parish Trophy who made the final, falling to a strong Galston rink having defeated Dundonald and Troon Portland on the way. They comprised, Steell McFadzean, David Gray, Robert Boyd, Ernest Mutter with Peter Galloway subbing. Well done everyone.

In the Eglinton Jug our involvement was curtailed by defeat by Tarbolton in round 1 by one rink and in the 2^nd round, our second rink lost to Doonfoot, having beaten Troon Portland.

The Province Knockout lasted for one round.

In the Ross Low we won 1 and lost 2.

In the Robertson we won 1 and lost 2.

A Gangrels rink of Ronnie Peat, Ernest Mutter, Richard Morrison and Jimmy Begg represented Ayrshire in the Waldie Griffith and won their tie although Ayrshire came up short overall.

In the Day League ‘A’, our rink, members mentioned above maintained their position in the league winning 2 and losing 5.

In the ‘D’ section, finished in a mid-table position with 3 wins, 3 losses and 2 peels.

I would conclude by sincerely thanking all those members who put their names forward for selection in open competition. A reduced playing membership has of course an impact on those numbers. We put up a rink, sometimes 2 in all the competitions. I have noticed that most other clubs appear to be represented by the same group of players. It is I think credit to Gangrels in our outlook and enthusiastic members that we are able to call upon a larger proportion of our membership to represent us. I will endeavor to ensure that all are accommodated in one or more matches. Once again I thank you on behalf of all the members.

                                       

Prize Winners 2014 – 15

The prizes won during the season were awarded to the following:

Fraser Cup                              Colin Naismith

                                                Peter Reynolds

                                                Robert Boyd

                                                Jimmy Begg

                                   

President’s Cup                       David Gray  (Skip)

                                                Jim Dunlop

                                                Allan Thomson

                                                Harry Peters

Kirkbride Rosebowl               High Road                   Low Road

                                                Peter Kennedy            Jim Dunlop

                                                Ronnie Wilson           David Gray

                                                Ernest Mutter              Steell McFadzean

                                                Bob Cherry                 Harry Peters

Drew Duncan Quaich             George Hay   

                                                Peter Galloway

                                                Jim Henry

                                                Bob McKay

                                   

Frame Salver                           Euan Lawrence

                                                Ken Ross

                                                George Hodge

                                                David Hope

                       

Points                                      Peter Galloway (39)

 Pairs                                       High Road

Peter Galloway and George Hodge

Sportsman’s Award                 Ronnie Wilson

Election of Office Bearers

Honorary President                Jim Henry

President                                 Francis McCrossin

At this stage in proceedings, Ronnie Peat handed over to Francis McCrossin who was duly installed as President.

Vice President                         Ken Ross

Secretary                                 Peter Galloway

Treasurer                                Ronnie Wilson

Committee                              Harry Peters (2)

                                                Colin Naismith (2)

                                                David Hope (2)

                                                Bob Cherry (1)

                                               

           

Honorary Auditor                  Allan Hastie

Subscriptions

Subscriptions remain at £30 for the ninth year.  The subscription includes RCCC Membership. Members whose mother club is not the Gangrels should pay £11 only.

Election of Skips

The following skips were elected for the Season:

Peter Galloway           Francis McCrossin                  George Hay   

Peter Kennedy            Jim Dunlop                              Colin Naismith

Ken Ross

Representatives to the RCCC, Ayrshire Province and Eglinton Jug

Robert Boyd agreed to continue to act as representative to the RCCC.  Jim Lyburn is continuing as representative to the Ayrshire Province and Eglinton Jug.

1.	Reserve membership free for one year to new members
	There was some discussion about an alternative arrangement of charging reserves £4 when they play. However in view of the admin hassle, the membership agreed that the Club should proceed with the initial proposal above.
2.	Lady Members
	The Clubs desperate need for new members drove the debate amongst the membership. The constitution is silent, the legal position is not relevant. Admitting lady members will have an effect on the atmosphere and culture of the club, and there was a degree of reluctance amongst some members because of this. However a majority of the members agreed to take this step in the interests of the Club’s survival.
3.	It was agreed to explore possible inter-league arrangements with other clubs.
4.	Fixture Adjustments
	a)    It was agreed to look at reorganising the Pairs Competition b)    It was agreed to try to play all games on a Monday night (and preferably at 5 pm) c)    It was agreed to trial mixing the rinks in the Beresford Ladies Match for one year.
5.	Slow Play
	There was a general discussion and agreement to improve this. There is no reason why 8 ends should not be played in every game and it is the Skip’s responsibility to ensure this happens.

Any Other Competent Business

1.	There was agreement to continue to print the Fixture Card.
2.	Jim Henry said he was honoured to be made Honorary President.
3.	Euan Lawrence applauded the Gangrels for its RCCC affiliation.
4.	A training night will be organised for the start of next season.
5.	George Hay explained the formation of a new limited company Ayrshire Ice Sports Ltd. which is seeking charitable status, and will be instrumental in obtaining further grant aid from Sport Scotland for equipment.
6.	David Hope asked the membership to thank the excellent caterers, Hazel and her team.

                                                         MINUTES OF MEETING OF 75TH ANNUAL

                                                         GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

                                                         CLUB, held at the Ice Rink, 9 Limekiln Road, Ayr, on

                                                         Monday 17th March 2014 at 8.15 pm.

Honorary members, Jim Henry and Jim Watson were present.

The President, Bob Cherry, occupied the chair.

The following members were present:

Allan Hastie	Jim Watson	Alan K Brown
Austin Thomson	Bert McKay	Euan Lawrence
Robert Boyd	Bob Grassom	Francis McCrossin
Scott Thomson	Harry Peters	Ken Ross
Jimmy Niblock	David Gray	Jim Henry
Colin Naismith	Charlie Jack
Peter Galloway	Peter Reynolds	Jimmy Begg
George Hay	Jim Dunlop	Steell McFadzean
George Hodge	Peter Kennedy	Ronnie Wilson
Gerry Watson	Robert Charters	Ronnie Peat
Alistair Henry	Donald Cattanach
David Hope	Richard Morrison

Apologies for absence were received from:

• Roy Penny                   David Kidd                  Russell Boyd

• One member died:  John Sharp

One new member was welcomed:-

• Pete Graham

The Minutes of the 74th Annual General Meeting were approved.  There were no matters arising and the Minutes were accepted as a true record.  Proposed by Robert Boyd, seconded by George Hay.  F. McCrossin omitted from list of prize winners (low round Kirkbride Rosebowl).

Financial Statement

Ronnie Wilson went through the Financial Statement. Subscriptions down as members reduced from 64 to 59.  There was an Ice money surplus owing to uncertainty over number of reserves. There have been cost savings through increased use of email. With reserves of £1360 the Club is in a comfortable position. No gratuity was paid to icemen this year – not considered by other clubs to be good practice.

The accounts were approved. Proposed by Jim Dunlop and seconded by Francis McCrossin.

Review of the Past Season

The President reviewed the Season. 

1.    Following  John Sharp’s sad death, Ronnie Wilson stepped in as Treasurer and has done a tremendous job picking this up. Many thanks to Ronnie for this.

2.    The Management of the website – under Ronnie Peat’s direction – has gone from strength to strength. It is hoped that all look at it. It was suggested that the printed fixture card could now be unnecessary. However the members wish to continue with it.

3.    Training sessions moved from beginning of the season to mid-October. This has proven successful. The points competition attendance was poor again this year. It is proposed to take 2 sheets for 1 session only next year.

There is congestion at end of season with Kirkbride Rosebowl finals and Points in the same week which the committee can look at.

4.    With regard to the decline in membership numbers

(i)	Disnae Club – a good way to recruit new members from the Disnae Club is for Gangrels to be involved in running the club. Volunteers are required to assist with the classes. They will get to know potential members and feed them in to Gangrels.
(ii)	Joint League Competitions - this may be worth looking at for season after next. A joint league with another small club would bring more games and is possibly a way forward whilst maintaining club identity. There are lots of members of other clubs here – and we are interested to talk to other clubs about this.

5.    Thanks very much to this year’s committee for providing support and advice. Thanks in particular to Ken Ross for arranging works for the various open competitions. He will report shortly.

6.    Finally I have to report losses to both Tarbolton and Ayr and Alloway in our annual games, although we did win against Beresford Ladies.

Report on Open Competitions

This season showed a marked fall in the number of members making themselves available for Open Competitions, 21 as opposed to 32 last season. This, I think, is in part due to the fall in the number of playing members as reflected in the reduced number of rinks in Club Competitions.

We were, however, represented in all competitions except the Challenge League where the 9.30 starts were proving increasingly unpopular resulting in our withdrawal from this particular competition.

As the season unfolded, Gangrels Rinks provided the usual mixed bag of results. In preparing this report, I was running out of ways to say ‘lost in the first round’ until as recently as last Wednesday, my spirits were lifted on hearing that, in the final Competition of the season, the Robertson Trophy, the Gangrels Rink skipped by Russell Boyd with David Hope, Alan Hastie and Peter Galloway overcame a succession of skilled opponents to win.

In the Day Leagues, the Rink of Ronnie Peat, Jimmy Begg, Jim Dunlop and Ken Ross playing in the ‘A’ League for only the 2^nd year finished in a very creditable 3^rd place with 3 wins, 2 losses and 2 peels.

In League ‘D’, again, our Rink of Allan Brown, Richard Morrison, Peter Galloway and Jim Henry finished in 4^th place with 4 wins 3 losses and 1 peel.

Congratulations to all the members involved.

We entered two Rinks in this years Eglinton Jug.

Rink A, skipped by Bob Cherry with Steell McFadzean,David Gray and Jim Dunlop went out in the 2^nd round to Galston 3, scurrilous rumour had it that Galston3 were represented by a Ladies Team. Like all here, I find the notion that our boys would be soundly beaten by a team of wee girls utterly preposterous and lend it no credence.

Rink B, skipped by Euan Lawrence with Robert Charters, Richard Morrison and Ken Ross lost in the 3^rd round Quarter Final to defeated finalists, Stewarton.

Thanks to all these members for making themselves available and in representing the club so well.

High points of the season include our Ross Low rink of Allan Brown, Ernest Mutter, Allan Hastie and Ken Ross who reached the semi-final of this competition, losing to Troon Portland.

In the Province Medal, Gangrels Rink ‘B’ skipped by Ronnie Peat with Colin Naismith, Ernest Mutter Peter Galloway reached the semi-final, with Rink ‘A’ of Allan Hastie, Jimmy Niblock, Ronnie Wilson and Ken Ross losing in the first round.

This last phrase brings us neatly to the results in the remaining competitions, the Province Knock-out, Rinks Challenge and the Parish Trophy, though in mitigation, it must be pointed out that on two occasions we were drawn against formidable opposition in the form of Sorn

In conclusion Mr. President I would like to thank on behalf of the Club, all those members who took part in this seasons competitions and would urge all members to consider putting their names forward next year for what are always a most enjoyable series of matches.

                                       

Prize Winners 2013 – 14

The prizes won during the season were awarded to the following:

Fraser Cup                              Bob Cherry (Skip)

                                                George Hodge

                                                Richard Morrison

                                                Robert Charters

President’s Cup                       Jim Dunlop (Skip)

                                                Jim Henry

                                                Peter Reynolds

                                                Ronnie Peat

Kirkbride Rosebowl               High Road                   Low Road

                                                Jimmy  Begg (Skip)      Ronnie Peat (Skip)

                                                Gerry Watson            Jim Dunlop

                                                David Gray                  Jim Henry

                                                Jimmy Niblock                        Robert Boyd

Drew Duncan Quaich             Steell  McFadzean (Skip)        

                                                George Hay

                                                Colin Naismith

                                                Peter Galloway

                                   

Frame Salver                           Charlie Jack

                                                Jim Dunlop

                                                R. Morrison

                                                R. Charters

                       

Points                                      Robert Boyd and Ronnie Peat (40 points)

Kennedy Pairs                         High Road                                           Low Road

                                                Gerry Watson                                    David Hope

                                                Euan Lawrence                                   George Hodge

Sportsman’s Award                 Ken Ross

Election of Office Bearers

Honorary President                Jim Watson

President                                 Ronnie Peat

At this stage in proceedings, Bob Cherry handed over to Ronnie Peat who was duly installed as President.

Vice President                         Francis McCrossin

Secretary                                 Bob Cherry

Treasurer                                Ronnie Wilson

Committee                              It was unanimously resolved by the meeting to

                                                reduce the members of ordinary committee

                                                members from 6 to 4.            

Peter Galloway (2)

David Moulds (2)

Peter Reynolds (1)

Ken Ross (1)

Honorary Auditor                  Allan Hastie

Subscriptions

Subscriptions remain at £30 for the ninth year.  The subscription includes RCCC Membership. Members whose mother club is not the Gangrels should pay £11 only.

Election of Skips

The following skips were elected for the Season:

Ronnie Peat    Francis McCrossin      Charlie Jack     Euan Lawrence

George Hay    Peter Kennedy            Jim Dunlop      Colin Naismith

Representatives to the RCCC, Ayrshire Province and Eglinton Jug

Robert Boyd agreed to continue to act as representative to the RCCC.  Jim Lyburn is continuing as representative to the Ayrshire Province and Eglinton Jug.

Any Other Competent Business

The following was discussed:

1.	Members will be asked if they wish to order a new jumper.
2.	Jim Henry asked about declining membership. There are many reasons and the Gangrels is in a similar position to other clubs. These include age,  members reducing the number of Club Memberships, various working members unable to play at 5 pm.  The importance of a close association with the Disnae Club was stressed.
3.	Euan Lawrence  mentioned the importance of etiquette on the ice and highlighted in particular that the lead and second should stand between the hoglines during play and not behind the end.
4.	75th Anniversary Bonspiel and Dinner To be held on Sunday 5th October. Ronnie Peat produced details of preparation to date. Jim Henry asked about the possibility of sponsorship and this was taken on board.

                                                         MINUTES OF MEETING OF 74TH ANNUAL

                                                         GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

                                                         CLUB, held at the Ice Rink, 9 Limekiln Road, Ayr, on

                                                         Monday 17th March 2013 at 8.00 pm.

Honorary members, Jim Henry, Jim Lyburn,  Jim Watson and Roy Penny were present.

The President, David Hope, occupied the chair.

The following members were present:

David Hope	Bob Cherry	Scott Thomson
Colin Naismith	Gerry Watson	Ronnie Peat
Jimmy Begg	Ken Ross	Austin Thomson
Robert Boyd	Jim Dunlop	David Gray
Ernest Mutter	Forbes Watson	Peter Reynolds
Francis McCrossan	Euan Lawrence	Bert McKay
Robert Charters	Bob Grassom	Peter Galloway
Jim Henry	Jim Watson	Jimmy Niblock
George Hodge	Russell Boyd	Ronnie Wilson
Allan Hastie	Jim Lyburn	Roy Penny
Steell McFadzean	George Hay	Alan K Brown
Charlie Jack

Apologies for absence were received from:

• David Moulds                        Willie Scott                David Kidd

Peter Kennedy           John Sharp                Bob Henderson

Euan Frew                             

One new member was welcomed:-

• Peter Galloway

The Minutes of the 73rd Annual General Meeting were approved.  There were no matters arising and the Minutes were accepted as a true record.  Proposed by Charlie Jack and seconded by Ronnie Peat.

Financial Statement

Allan Hastie went through the Financial Statement in John Sharp’s absence.  Subscriptions are lower because there are fewer members.  100 badges were ordered with this cost written off. Because of this there had been a deficit for the year of £439 with the club’s capital reducing from £1484 to £1045. There is £748 in the bank.

The accounts were approved. Proposed by Jim Dunlop and seconded by Ronnie Wilson.

Review of the Past Season

The President reviewed the Season. 

At the beginning of the season we discovered that we had an issue with the number of reserves we had within the club. A committee meeting was hastily arranged and the decision was taken to reduce the number of rinks from 10 to 8. At this stage I have to give a thank you to Bob for all his hard efforts in sending out emails to the membership and for arranging all the rinks for the season 2012 – 2013.

The season got under way with the rearranged rinks and the inter club games came to the fore. We had comfortable wins against Beresford Ladies, Ayr and Alloway but a loss to Tarbolton not helped by someone not turning up.

The Club has had a mixed season in the Open Competitions due in no small part to the efforts that out Match Secretary Ken Ross has put into the selection of the rinks. We had one major success this year when The Rink Skipped by David Gray won the Parish Trophy. Ken will review the various matches in more detail shortly.

With the reduction of 2 rinks I hope that this has resulted in us all being able to find  reserves but as always we could do with more, so please  think about this and should you have anybody in mind please let Bob know.

The President stated that there had been some enjoyable social banter after many games with members having a meal together. The service provided by Hazel and Steven from Passion Caterers has been much appreciated and Hazel, Steven and staff were thanked for that.

The President also stated that a big thank you went to the Ayr Curling Club as well as Adam for the bar and general facilities provided for the use of Gangrels and other Clubs.

The Ayrshire Curlers PLC is responsible for the provision of the ice without which we would not have the facility. As a Club we are grateful to the Board of the PLC for the provision of these services realizing that they have interests of skaters and ice hockey players to look after as well as curlers.

The President sincerely thanked the Committee of Past President Ronnie Wilson, Ronnie Peat, Willie Scott, Ken Ross, Peter Reynolds, Richard Morrison and Francis McCrossin for their support and attendance to club matters over the past year; also the Treasurer, John, who has carried out his role in his own inimitable style for another year, despite his health concerns.

A special big thanks goes to the Secretary, Bob Cherry, without whom the task of running the club and arranging ice, communications with members etc. would be much more difficult.

Ken, the Match Secretary, has once again done a wonderful job arranging the rinks for a huge number of games with such skill and thought to each rink to provide a balance of skill, experience and variety for all those playing members.  A big thank you to Ken for the great contribution to the workings of the Club in his first year as Match Secretary.

The president also thanked Ronnie Peat and Richard Morrison for their contribution to the website, notice board and collection of score cards at the end of each game.

Report on Open Competitions

A total of 35 members made themselves available to represent Gangrels in this seasons Open Competitions.  I followed the principle of ensuring that everyone played in at least one competition and also tried to field our strongest line-up in the main competitions.     Our season was not entirely a successful one. Our carefully nurtured tendency to lose in the first round of competition was diligently maintained, with a couple of notable exceptions, one might also say aberrations !!

An ‘early bath’ in the AYRSHIRE PROVINCE KNOCK-OUT, was followed by a similar result by Rink ‘A’ in the EGLINTON JUG, however, Rink ‘B’  of :

                                              Robert Boyd (Skip)

                                                   David Gray

                                              Steell McFadzean

                                               Robert Charters

had two excellent victories over Ardrossan and Symington before losing to Sorn, thereby maintaining the club’s fine recent performances in this tournament.

Sadly, normal service was resumed in the subsequent ROSS LOW,RINKS CHAMPIONSHIP and PROVINCE MEDAL. For the sake of brevity I will not list the participants, but you know who you are !!

February saw an upturn in our fortunes.

In the PARISH TROPHY, David Gray skipped his side of:

Peter Galloway

George Hodge

Robert Boyd

to victory, beating on the way Crosshill,Galston and Tarbolton

This was followed by the Gangrels Rink of:

Skip Ronnie Peat

Robert Boyd

Jimmy Begg

Francis McCrossin

along with Stewarton,Crosshill and Ayr and Alloway representing a victorious Ayrshire Province against Dunbartonshire Province in the WALDIE GRIFFITH at Braehead. In beating Bearsden Ski Club, 10-3, Gangrels were the most successful rink

For the record, in the ROBERTSON, Gangrels played 2, lost2

In the CHALLENGE LEAGUE, Russell Boyd’s rink had 3 wins and 1 peel, finishing in the lower end of mid-table

In the DAY LEAGUES, Gangrels were represented in the ‘A’ LEAGUE for the first time, by

Skip   Ronnie Peat

Jimmy Begg

Jim Dunlop

Ken Ross

where they consolidated their position for next year by finishing in 6^th place.

In league ‘D’, we had a similar result for our rink of:

Francis McCrossin

Alan Brown

Richard Morrison

Peter Kennedy

We can take comfort gentlemen, in the secure knowledge that our non-victories were accepted in a humble and gracious manner as befits this honourable and ancient sport. I hope to report in future on our attitude to victory when we have established a winning pattern.

I thank all members who put their names forward for these competitions and would urge everyone to follow their example.

      

                                      

Presentation of Prizes

The prizes won during the season were awarded to the following:

Fraser Cup                             Ronnie Wilson (Skip)

                                                Robert  Boyd

                                                Peter Reynolds

                                                Ronnie  Peat

President’s Cup                     Ronnie Peat (Skip)

                                                Peter Reynolds

                                                Robert Boyd

                                                Ronnie Wilson

Kirkbride Rosebowl              High Road                  Low Road

                                                R. Wilson (Skip)         J. Niblock (Skip)

                                                R. Boyd                       C. Naismith

                                                P. Reynolds                R. Charters

                                                R. Peat                                   

Drew Duncan Quaich                       Steell  McFadzean (Skip)     

                                                Peter  Kennedy

                                                Forbes Watson

                                                Harry Peters

                                   

Frame Salver                         D. Gray

                                                J. Dunlop

                                                R. Morrison

                                                P. Reynolds

                       

Points                                     Robert Boyd (45)

Kennedy Pairs                                    High Road                                          Low Road

                                                B. McKay                                            D. Gray

                                                R. Charters                                         P. Kennedy

Sportsman’s Award              David Hope

Election of Office Bearers

Honorary President              Jim Watson

President                                David Hope

After presenting the Sportsman Award, Jim Henry said a few words about the changing face of club curling over the years. He questioned what was happening about the 75^th Anniversary celebration.

At this stage in the proceedings David Hope handed over to Bob Cherry who was duly installed as President.  David Hope thanked his committee for their work.  Bob Cherry thanked David Hope for his work as President during the year.

Vice President                                    Ronnie Peat

Secretary                                Bob Cherry

Treasurer                                John Sharp

Committee                             Peter Galloway (3)

David Moulds (3)

Peter Reynolds (2)

Ken Ross (2)

Francis McCrossin (1)

Richard Morrison (1)

Honorary Auditor                  Allan Hastie

Subscriptions

The subscription has been fixed at £30 for the last eight years and will be fixed at £30 for a further year.

Election of Skips

The following skips were elected for the Season:

Bob Cherry     Ronnie Peat               David Hope               Euan Lawrence

Charlie Jack    Jimmy Begg               Steell McFadzean      Bert McKay                

It was agreed that skips would serve two years rather than 3 and the past president would not be an automatic skip.

Representatives to the RCCC, Ayrshire Province and Eglinton Jug

Robert Boyd agreed to continue to act as representative to the RCCC.  Jim Lyburn is continuing as representative to the Ayrshire Province and Eglinton Jug.

Any Other Competent Business

The following was discussed:

1.	It was agreed that it is the Skips responsibility to ensure that they have a full rink playing. Members should find reserves and always notify their skip. There are more reserves following the reduction in rinks and generally no excuse for playing with 3.
2.	Skips should also take responsibility for coaching/helping/coordinating their rinks.
3.	It was suggested that the training session could take place later in the season after a few games.
4.	The committee was asked to look at the Pairs Competition as there were a lot of substitutions this year.
5.	It was requested that later club competition dates be put on the website as quickly as possible.

AGM Minutes 2012

Ken Ross's Match Secretary's Report for 2013 can be found here

                                                         MINUTES OF MEETING OF 73rd ANNUAL

                                                         GENERAL MEETING OF GANGRELS CURLING

                                                         CLUB, held at the Ice Rink, 9 Limekiln Road, Ayr, on

                                                         Monday 19th March 2012 at 8.00 pm.

Honorary members, Jim Henry, Jim Lyburn,  Jim Watson and Roy Penny were present.

The President, Ronnie Wilson, occupied the chair.

The following members were present:

Ronnie Wilson                       Robert Boyd               Bob Cherry

John D Sharp                         Ronnie Peat               Scott Thomson

Allan Hastie                            George Hodge           Euan Lawrence

Bob Henderson                     Jimmy Begg               Francis McCrossan

Jim Dunlop                            Robert Charters         David Hope

David Gray                             Jim Henry                   Jim Lyburn

David Moulds                                    Willie Scott                 George Hay

Steell McFadzean                  Austin Thomson        Bert McKay    

Ken Ross                                Peter Kennedy           Jimmy Niblock

Bob Grassom                         Ernest Mutter             Alan K Brown

Gerry Watson                                    Jim Watson                Richard Morrison

David Scott                            Russell Boyd              Peter Reynolds

Malcolm Bowden                  Roy Penny                  Charlie Jack

Alastair Pickles

Apologies for absence were received from:

• Bill Inglis                     David Kidd                

Two members died during the year:

• Bill Beaton and David Murphy.

Two new members were welcomed:-

• Harry Peters and Donald Cattanach

The Minutes of the 72nd Annual General Meeting were approved.  There were no matters arising and the Minutes were accepted as a true record.  Proposed by David Gray and seconded by George Hay.

Financial Statement

The Treasurer John Sharp went through the Financial Statement.  The main points were that the club had subsidised ice money this season by approximately £20 a head. There had been a deficit for the year of £621. This is because membership numbers were down and we had also taken more ice.  This does not create any great difficulty because the club remains in a healthy position with net assets of £1,484.  The Committee will give consideration to increasing the subscription this year as it has not been increased for a number of years and costs are increasing.

Alan Hastie was thanked for auditing accounts and the accounts were approved. Proposed by Jim Henry and seconded by Peter Kennedy.

Review of the Past Season

The President reviewed the Season. 

The various internal competitions this season seem to have all taken place without major incidents. The one unanticipated adversity was at the start of the season with the untimely death of David Murphy, one of David Gray’s rink. David managed to pull together reserves to fill the place and went on to come second in the Fraser Cup and winner of the Vice President’s Rinks in the President’s Cup.

The President encouraged all members to continue to volunteer for these competitions.

The inter club games went remarkably well with very acceptable outcomes with wins against Beresford Ladies, Ayr & Alloway, but a loss on points against Tarbolton.  Cellar unfortunately cancelled their game against us – it is believed that they were unable to raise a team on the arranged date.

A new event this year was a competition at the invitation of our own Alistair Henry who lives near Edinburgh and curls with a club known as the DAFS Club formed from fellow curlers – most of whom work with the Government body with the new acronym of DAFRC (Directorate for Agriculture, Food & Rural Communities) in Edinburgh.

Francis McCrossin, David Hope – Alistair’s father Jim as skip – and I travelled through to the Murrayfield rink on a Friday afternoon. It was a competition between four rinks – two from DAFS one from Dalgety Bay and ourselves.  I am pleased to report we were the winners and an enjoyable meal was shared with the other competitors after the game.  Alistair has emailed us thanking us for the support of their competition and indicating a willingness to have a return match of some sort next season. Something perhaps for the new Committee to arrange.

The Club has done very well this year in the Open Competitions due in no small way to the efforts put in to the selection of rinks by our excellent Match Secretary – David. Our rinks seem to have progressed further than before in many of the competitions – particularly the Eglinton Jug and Ross Low ones.  David will review the various match results in more detail shortly but I think Ronnie Peat and his rink of Jimmy egg, Jim Dunlop and Jim Smith deserve a special mention at this time for coming top of the B League thereby achieving promotion to the A League for next season.

Reserves have been in regular demand this past season confirming the fairly urgent need to find more new members as soon as possible to save having to consider a possible reduction in the number of rinks from the current 10.  I don’t think it will be possible to consider this matter in too much detail until return of the forms detailing members’ intentions in June.

The President reported there seemed to be a worrying trend in attracting new members in this particular geographic area where the ability to attract young or even mature people to start curling seemed to be failing.  The curling population is not getting any younger and Gangrels Club needs to assist more with attracting new members

The President stated it was a pity we could not secure the ice for last Thursday to have a “come and try it” session for any interested friends/potential members.  Bob and David hope to try and arrange for this at the start of next season, but by that time the rink numbers and expected reserves will already have been effectively determined. Please try and let David or Bob know of any possible new members as soon s possible.

The President mentioned that he has heard comments from some Ayr curlers that the quality of the ice is not as good or consistent as it might be. This seems regrettable given the investment last year in new plant, equipment and floor which it was thought would cost efficiencies but also improve the quality of the ice for curling. However the ice seemed to be very good when the incoming US tour played at Ayr.  The President stated the floor would be open later under AOCB to hear the views of members on this matter and what action, if any, is felt might be considered by the Committee.

The President stated that there had been some enjoyable social banter after many games with members having a meal together. The service provided by Mo has been much appreciated and he and his staff were thanked for that.

The President also stated that a big thank you went to the Ayr Curling Club as well as Adam for the bar and general facilities provided for the use of Gangrels and other Clubs.

The Ayrshire Curlers plc is responsible for the provision of the ice without which we would not have the facility. As a Club we are grateful to the Board of the PLC for the provision of these services realizing that they have interests of skaters and ice hockey players to look after as well as curlers.

The President felt a word of appreciation was appropriate to the 21 non playing members who still support the Club financially and their interest in its well being. He stated that perhaps we should make more contact with those we know who still curl with a view to trying to bring them back in as playing members for the next season.

The President sincerely thanked the Committee of David, Ronnie, Forbes, Peter, Richard and Francis for their support and attendance to club matters over the past year; also the Treasurer, John, who has carried out his role in his own inimitable style for another year, despite his health concerns.

A special big thanks was conveyed to the Secretary, Bob Cherry, without whom the task of running the club and arranging ice, communications with members etc would be much more difficult.

David, the Match Secretary, has once again done a wonderful job arranging the rinks for a huge number of games with such skill and thought to each rink to provide a balance of skill, experience and variety for all those playing members.  A big thank you to David for the great contribution to the workings of the Club.

The President also thanked Ronnie peat and Richard Morrison for their contribnution to the website and notice board.

On a last note about the website the President stated he understood some clubs have tried and others might try to introduce a system whereby the website can be used to indicate reserves availability by the use of a number rather than quoting names that might not be desirable in the public domain. Perhaps Ronnie might wish to comment/take the matter forward as an idea to be investigated.  Ronnie was congratulated for his editorial input to the website and links to the other sites/TV coverage of major curling events etc. The site has been well received by members and commented on favourably by other interested curlers.

Report on Open Competitions

Everyone who put their names forward to be selected to play in the open competition was thanked, and encouraged to do the same for the coming season.

The numbers of volunteers took a slight decrease this year, with 25 members making themselves available to be selected, 4 less than last year.  Each volunteer was included in at least one competition.

This year we came up against Sorn in the parish Trophy. Our team of Skip Ernest Mutter, Allan Hastie, Richard Morrison and Ken Ross winning, but then meeting Galston who beat us.  In the Province K/O this year things got off to a good start for the rink of Steell McFadzean, David Gray, George Hodge and Ken Ross winning their first game.  They then proceeded to make it all the way to the final whereupon they came up against another Gangrel Jim Dunlop, who was playing for the opposition of Crosshill who went on to beat us.

This year in the Eglinton Jug the Gangrels 1 Skipped by Ronnie Wilson, David Gray, Jimmy Begg and Allan Hastie were knocked out on the 1^st round. However our hopes were raised by Gangrels 2 as they excelled themselves by making it all the way to the semi finals where they met Stewarton Heather.  The Rink was skipped by Euan Lawrence, Jim Henry, Bob Cherry and Ken Ross. A big thank you to all of those who played in this competition.  Early league results were mixed. This year the rink Skipped by Alan Brown, Steell McFadzean, Francis McCrossin and Ken Ross had a good run in the Ross Low competition, losing out to Troon Portland in the final. Well done gentlemen.

We were not required to play in the Waldie Griffiths competition this year, but will be guaranteed a playing slot next season.

In the Province Medal normal service resumed with us losing both of our first round matches. However, the Rink Skipped by Robert Boyd, Ronnie Wilson, Willie Scott and David Moulds managed to beat a strong rink from Beresford Ladies. Unfortunately their winning margin was not good enough to allow them to proceed to the next round. The Rink Skipped by Bob Cherry, Russell Boyd, Ken Ross and Allan Hastie were well beaten. The Robertson Trophy was not a successful competition with us losing all our games.

This year in the Rink Championship Skipped by Robert Boyd, Ronnie Wilson, Ernest

Mutter and Peter Kennedy had a very successful run in this competition getting all the

way to the final where they came up against a rink from Galston. Unfortunately it was

not to be our afternoon and we lost this game!

The day leagues this year had mixed fortunes. The newly promoted Rink skipped by

Ronnie Peat, Jimmy Begg, James Dunlop and Jim Smith had another exceptional season

with them having only been promoted to the “B” League this year they clinched the “B”

League title.  They only had 1 defeat all season and won the league with a total points

score of 13 over the session.  Well done Ronnie and rink.  The “D” League skipped by

Steell McFadzean, Charlie Jack, Alan Brown and peter Kennedy finished in7th place with

a score of 5 points.  I would like to thank Steell and his rink for their efforts over the

season.

This year we entered a team into the Kyle & Carrick Challenge Cup.  The Team

Skipped by Russell Boyd, Bob Cherry, Allan Hastie and Willie Scott finished in mid table.

Well done to Russell and the Rink for their efforts during the season.

This year Alistair Henry invited a rink from the Gangrels to Edinburgh to play in a mini Bonspiel. The Rink was skipped by Jim Henry, David Hope, Francis McCrossin and Ronnie Wilson. We played two four end games with our first game against Alistair’s rink from DAFS (known as Directorate for Agriculture Food and Rural Communities). This game finished in peels ad did the other two rinks’ score.  We then met another rink from DAFS who we managed to win against and finished 5 shots up with the other 3 rinks finished all the 5 shots. I would just like to thank Alistair and DAFS for their invitation and will try and reciprocate this for the coming season.

A big thanks went to all the members who stood in to play in David Murphy’s place, as well as for Jim Smith during his recent illness.

All members are encouraged to continue to volunteer for these competitions.

Presentation of Prizes

The prizes won during the season were awarded to the following:

Fraser Cup                             Jim Henry

                                                Jimmy Begg

                                                Alan Brown

                                                Peter Reynolds

President’s Cup                     David Gray

                                                Euan Lawrence

                                                Willie Scott

                       

Kirkbride Rosebowl              High Road                                          Low Road

                                                Bob Cherry                                         Ernest Mutter

                                                Richard Morrision                             Steell McFadzean

                                                Colin Naismith                                  Roy Penny

                                                Jimmy Begg/Alan Hastie                  Gerry Watson

Drew Duncan Quaich                       Bob Cherry    

                                                David Kidd

                                                Richard Morrison

                                                Colin Naismith

                                   

Frame Salver                         Francis McCrossin

                                                Charlie Jack

                                                Richard Morrison

                                                Austin Thomson

                       

Points                                     Ronnie Peat (50)

Kennedy Pairs                                    High Road                                          Low Road

                                                Charlie Jack                                                    Bob Charters

                                                Robert McKay                                                Alan Hastie

Sportsman’s Award              Ronnie Peat

Election of Office Bearers

Honorary President              Jim Watson

President                                David Hope

At this stage in the proceedings Ronnie Wilson handed over to David Hope who was duly installed as President.  Ronnie Wilson thanked his committee for their work.  Ronnie Wilson thanked Robert Boyd for his work as President he had been inspirational during the year and in particular very helpful on the ice. 

Vice President                                    Bob Cherry

Secretary                                Bob Cherry

Treasurer                                John Sharp

Committee                             Richard Morrison,  Ronnie Peat,  Francis McCrossin,

Willie Scott, Ken Ross,  Peter  Reynolds

Honorary Auditor                  Allan Hastie

Subscriptions

The subscription has been fixed at £30 for the last seven years. The decision on increasing the subscription was deferred until the summer Committee Meeting when it will be evident what the increase in ice money is and how many members we have.

Election of Skips

The following skips were elected for the Season:

David Hope                Ronnie Wilson           David Gray                 Jimmy Niblock

Scott Thomson          Steell McFadzean      Jimmy Begg               Bert McKay

Charlie Jack               

Possibility of a reduction to the rinks may mean that one of these skips may not be appointed.

There are 8 new members in reserves.  A requirement to find new members and reserves was  expressed by the Committee and on the floor.  There were a number of possible new members in the pipeline.

There was some discussion about an upcoming event in September. There was also a suggestion that photographs of any new members should be put on the website so that they can be recognised by the whole membership.

Representatives to the RCCC, Ayrshire Province and Eglinton Jug

Robert Boyd agreed to continue to act as representative to the RCCC.  Jim Lyburn is continuing as representative to the Ayrshire Province and Eglinton Jug.

Any Other Competent Business

The membership confirmed there was an appetite for coaching at the beginning of the season and it was agreed to investigate the possibility of involving Kirsty Letton

There was discussion about curling etiquette and information is available from Robert Boyd.

A particular point was that lead and number 2 should stand before the hog line on the ice and should not be positioned behind the rink.

It was agreed that the Committee would write to Ayrshire Curlers plc to advise that they were not satisfied that the ice was up to standard.

George Hay on behalf of Ayrshire Curlers plc said that he considered the icemen did their best, but there were a lot of difficult problems including using the ice for skaters and the increase in the cost of gas and electricity.