HTAG Guildford - HTAG Bridge Club Information

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HTAG Bridge Club Information

This year is the thirtieth HTAG Bridge season and a short history is appropriate. The club was started in 1973 in response to one of the groups aims - that of encouraging a sense of community in the area. It started as 'Beginners' Bridge' but over the years the beginners have progressed and we became just the HTAG Bridge Club. The first leader was Mr Bevan. The games were played as today, but we played 24 hands per match instead of the 20 today, otherwise the rules are the same. We had 24 members as compared to 26 today. most live in the HTAG area or are previous residents but some players are from other parts and, as friends of members, have been welcomed. When Mr Bevan was leader there was a rule that only tea and biscuits were allowed to be offered. Since then it has been known for wine and cakes to appear. Mr Bevan acted as leader for several years, then John Tunshurst took over, and afterwards Barry Rockhill was in charge. Colin Callegari has reigned for several years (thank you Colin!) and we still enjoy our bi-annual gatherings, when we change partners - just for the Bridge! Prizes are awarded for the evening's score and, in summer, for the year's total points. How many members have stayed the course from the beginning? Jean and Gordon Bridger, Wendy and Colin Callegari. The Burgesses' joined in the mid seventies (dear Ron - we still miss you). Margaret now plays with June Collis, another long-standing member. The highlight of our 30th season was undoubtedly the winter get-together described above. We all look forward to our battles across the green baize and the HTAG Bridge Circle is well set to continue for the next thirty years.