BALERNO BOWLING CLUB

The Annual General Meeting of the Club on Tuesday, 16th January, attended by 79 members, was largely dominated by discussion of the proposed prohibitive rent increase that the Rosebery Estate are seeking to impose on the Club in the quinquennial rent review. The dispute centres on the method of valuing the land on which the Club stands. The Estate maintains it should be valued as residential and the Club as recreational. In an excellent presentation, retiring President Bill Stark, detailed discussions with the Rosebery Estate representative and also meetings with local MP’s and MSP’s who have promised support for the Club in this matter. Local Planning Councillor, Allan Laing and the CEC Head of Planning, Alan Henderson, have provided letters of support and clarification of planning matters to assist the Club in their pursuit of a fair rent.
However, at this stage, it seems likely that the Club will have to formally contest the Estate proposals by proceeding to independent arbitration.
Earlier, Bill contrasted the areas where the Club had performed well and others where he felt we could improve. He said that tough trading conditions had followed the Anti- Smoking legislation in March but that the full effect on bar turnover might not be seen until the balance sheet for the next financial year. He urged all members to support the Club to the best of their ability during the close season.
The Treasurer, David Henry, gave a detailed explanation of the accounts which were approved unanimously.
It seemed clear that, with costs being monitored monthly, the membership are happy that the Club is managed well financially.
The new President is the previous Vice President, Hugh Watt who has been a member since 1991. Hugh was elected unopposed. We wish him well in his term of Office. As the two Vice Presidents, the Club has elected Charlie Husband, who will also continue as Secretary, and Alison Clark. Both thoroughly deserve the honour. David Henry was re elected unopposed as Treasurer.
Interestingly, the remaining Committee members contain no less than 7 past presidents. Bill Stark, Immediate Past President, Kenny Girdler, Match Secretary, Ron Duguid, Paddy Welch, Helen Girdler, Morag Moffat and Essie Stoddart, Ladies Match Secretary. A wealth of experience just when it may be needed! They are joined by a relatively new member, Mark Stout.
The Green will open on Saturday, 21st April, weather permitting.

F.D.H.King