As the sun beats down on Benwell Hill and the temperature soars above freezing it is great to see life re-emerging from lock down and our Club coming back to (almost) normal.
The bar reopened on April 12th and the usual suspects have done their duty leading from the front – hats off to Ramsey, John, Jimmy, Martin and co who selflessly volunteered to test the new arrangements for accessing drinks in our lovely bespoke beer garden. Please be patient and adhere to the Covid protocols that have been put in place for the greater good.
Squash is underway as of April 12 whilst when you are allowed in the Club House please take the time to take in the new photographs that Martin Avery has compiled in the area beyond the bar. They show the Club in all its glory.
Cricket broke out this weekend with First Team and Third Team friendlies whilst the Second Team have already won a trophy at South Northumberland. The Banks Bowl Final was carried over from 2020 and it would have been great to see them emerge victorious – unfortunately I got evicted from the Bullring along with Matthew Reeves and Marley the dog. My best wishes go to all our teams as we get the League Programme underway on Saturday.
BHCC held their first ever on line AGM on April 6th and I must thank all those who found the time to attend and to contribute. The best thing about the evening for me was that the old stagers were happy to continue in their roles and that a number of newcomers have volunteered to get involved in the organisation of the Club. Strength in numbers is key to moving forward through these unprecedented times. It was also fitting that the Club recognised three exceptional figures in Tom McVinnie, Barry Evans and Gordon Haxon by offering Life Membership. All three have provided Benwell Hill with countless hours of voluntary service over many years. I should also add our esteemed President T.S.Williamson was duly re-elected.
Financially the Club is in reasonable shape but it is not a moment too soon that we are starting to generate some income. Matchball Sponsorship is available via Philip Nicholson and we hope to get some events off the ground as soon as we move into the next stages of the Great Escape. All hands to the pump!
Enough for now – as ever any issues you would wish to raise please contact me on 07791-683827 or email me on simon.lunn@live.co.uk
Best wishes to all
Simon Lunn
Chairman BHCC
