OPEN FORUM MEETING

Wednesday 11^th November 2009
8.00 pm at Kings Park

Present:       Wynne Munden                Robin James 
                   Dave Pain                        Sian Long
                   Lesley Sloane                   Hazel Bates
                   Ian Graham                      Paul Dowson
                   Martin Long                     Mick Willis
                   Ray Munden                     Ian Graham

1.  Attendance and Introductory Remarks

All those present were welcomed to the Open Forum by the Chairman of the Executive Committee.  It was reported that BAC has now gained Clubmark accreditation.  Robin James was thanked for his hard work in this regard.

2.  Competitions

The following successes were reported:

·        BAL and Southern Womens teams retain their places in the Leagues.  Well done to Team Managers and athletes.

·        NYAL Composite Team gained promotion.  There were many good successes for a united team.  Well done to everyone.

·        NJL team was short of athletes but made a valiant effort.  Hopefully younger athletes will come up from NYAL.

·        Wessex League – good opportunity for younger athletes to have fun.

·        Road Section – Dorset League Championships – many individual and team winners

·        Cross Country – a successful year in the Hampshire League lying 2^nd at present.

3.  Coaches

Gratitude was expressed to the excellent coaches at the Club and for all their hard work.  There is a need for additional coaches and it was felt that all contacts should be explored.  BAC will pay for the relevant courses for those interested in becoming a coach.  Anyone interested can start by assisting existing coaches.  There is no requirement to be an ex-athlete.

4.  Finance

In the absence of the Honorary Treasurer the following was reported:

Balance £30,000 approximately (including some funds for electronic timing).  There is a deficit at present.  The Finance Sub-Committee will be meeting to draw up a budget for 2010.  At present costs exceed income and will therefore be necessary to generate additional income from membership, fund raising, etc.  Any ideas for fund-raising are welcome.

Thanks were recorded to Lorraine Hutton for her efforts in organising the Fun Run which raised approximately £1600 (to be split with Help for Heroes).

5.  Transport

It was reported that the biggest expense for the Club is transport to matches (approx £5000 this season).  A minibus has been donated by Wentworth College which will hopefully be used for some fixtures next season.  The costs for this minibus are being investigated at present to see if it is viable.  Alternative forms of hiring are also being investigated.  The size of the vehicles required will be looked at with a view to making reducing the costs.  Using the donated minibus or hiring vehicles required suitably able drivers.  If it is decided to keep the donated minibus there is an option for the BAC logo to be added to it.

6.  Codes of Conduct

Codes of Conduct have been signed by coaches.  They are set out on the website for perusal.  These need to be publicised to parents, athletes, volunteers, officials and team managers and, if possible, distributed as required. 

7.  Equipment Room

The storage in the Equipment Room will be looked at (Matt Frampton/Mick Willis)

THE NEXT OPEN FORUM WILL BE HELD IN MAY AND ALL ARE WELCOME!!