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Notes from HGC Ladies Committee Meetings/Match Books/other sources 1903 to 1995 – made by Rosie Gerrard 2016

NB In 1903 original lady members paid one guinea entrance fee (about £115 in today’s money) and one guinea per year subscription. To be classed as an ‘original member’ the ladies had to have their names down by February 6th 1903. Initially, on February 6th 1903, it was decided that the Ladies could play anytime except holidays, competition days and Saturdays after 12pm.

September 16 1903 – Ladies Committee MeetingThe first Ladies’ Committee Meeting was held at Corner Croft. Present were Mrs Ashe, Mrs Cooper, Mrs Goldsmith, Mrs MacCaig, Mrs Payne, Mrs Simons and Mrs Stevenson.It was agreed unanimously that Mrs Ashe be the Lady Captain for the current year. Mrs Ashe accepted the position.A discussion took place as to the best means of arousing and sustaining interest among the lady members of the club and it was decided to send out circulars calling a general meeting of the ladies for September 24th 1903 at the Clubhouse.The furnishing of the Ladies Room was mentioned and it was decided that several small things were needed.

1903 Officers Captain – Mrs AsheSecretary – Mrs StevensonMrs Cooper, Mrs Goldsmith, Mrs MacCaig, Mrs Payne, Mrs Simons.

In 1903 there were 25 Lady members.

September 24th 1903 – Annual General Meeting (20 present)About 20 ladies were present and showed considerable interest in the proceedings. Mrs Ashe spoke of the necessity for all playing members to return cards for handicap and explained the matter thoroughly. Mrs Stevenson announced the time when ladies are permitted to play, mentioning that, for the present, the rule for preventing ladies from playing in the morning of Competition Saturdays, would not be enforced and also saying that ladies were especially welcome at tea-time on Saturdays.Mrs Ashe announced a winter Medal Competition of 9 holes to be played on the second Tuesday in each month. The winner of each round to receive a silver button and to be eligible to play in the final.Mrs Stevenson read a letter from Mr Charlton offering a Challenge Cup to the ladies and saying he would have liked the arrangements similar to the Galloway Cup, but that they would not be suitable and would be glad to receive suggestions. It was carried unanimously that the matter be left to the Ladies’ Committee.

October 1st 1903 – Committee MeetingThe Ladies Bogey was fixed as follows:

Meadow – 5Spinney – 4Bend – 6Orchard – 5Peninsula – 6Farm – 5

Short – 3Punchbowl – 4Home – 5

It was decided that Mr Charlton’s Challenge Cup should be played for early in June 1904 under handicap – 2 rounds of 18 holes each played on 2 different days during one week. The player returning the lowest net score for the 2 rounds to hold the cup for one year.

It was particularly desired that the Ladies’ Room at the Clubhouse should be opened early in the morning always, as several players had been disappointed of a game through being unable to enter to get their clubs.

Arrangements were made for Mrs O’Hanlon’s Prize to be played for during October and November by ladies with a handicap of over 20. Players to take out any number of cards and the three best cards of one player (9 holes each) to take the prize.

It was decided that the following things were needed – a box for the competition cards, a table, curtain rods for the windows, coat hooks for the door. The material kindly promised by Mr O’Hanlon to be sent to Mrs Stevenson, who had offered to make the curtains.

It was particularly desired that the Ladies’ Room at the Clubhouse should be opened early in the mornings always, as several players had been disappointed of a game through being unable to enter to get their clubs.

November 1903 – Committee MeetingIt was decided that for the remainder of the Winter Medal Competition, two days should be available for play each month, 2nd Tuesday and Wednesday owing to the weather but that the first round played should be the competing score.

Mrs Stevenson mentioned that players wishing to commence early and finding the Clubhouse closed could now borrow a key and also get cards – at her house.

The question was raised as to the desirability of admitting ladies to the Club who might not be related to men members, but it was considered inadvisable to suggest any alteration to the present rules.

From the Suggestion Book: November 24th 1903Laura Cooper: That the barbed wire might be cut at the entrance to the links as I have twice caught my dress on it. Endorsed by Beatrice Stevenson 9/2/1904.11/6/1904 – E Hansford: The barbed wire at entrance of links to which attention was drawn 24/11/03 and which was reported attended to February last has twice this week been the cause of damage to dress. It should not be necessary to again call attention to an abominable nuisance.

February 11th 1904 – Committee MeetingThe Ladies’ Committee are decidedly of the opinion that the Clubhouse is not as well kept as formerly. On a Monday at 2 0’clock, a dirty empty grate, a dirty floor and Mrs Black in a clean apron, dusting – no sign of scrubbing. The entire floor ought to be scrubbed clean once a week, on Monday, kept tidy through the week and the dirty places done again on for Saturday. The Clubroom grate should be cleaned and a fire laid before 2 o’clock every day – a dirty grate is an eyesore… A newly lit fire at 3.30 is almost useless and would probably be in good order after members had left. 3 o’clock would be a much more sensible time, with directions not to replenish after a certain hour.

The Ladies do not approve of Mrs Black’ s child being in the Clubroom when members are present. They would not have their little ones there and think it should be stopped before the inevitable unpleasantness occurs.

As soon as funds allow, it would be only fair to Mrs Black to cover the kitchen floor with inlaid linoleum (cheapest in the end, though expensive) for a properly kept boarded floor means heavy work and not much satisfaction at best.

March 8th 1904 – Annual General Meeting Mrs Ashe impressed upon the members the necessity for obtaining handicaps without delay and explained that no practice on the greens was permissible before a competition, also that it was essential that all cards returned should be dated, signed and headed with the name of the competition for which they were intended.Mrs Cooper read a letter from Mr Megson (Hon. Sec) announcing that the Committee of the club intended allowing mixed foursomes after 5 pm on the last Saturday during the six summer months, but explaining that the concession was an experiment and might not be renewed. Mrs Cooper asked for the general opinion on the subject of a Club Garden Party – saying that the Ladies’ Committee considered the Club too new to undertake one and agreed with the men in thinking a Mixed Foursome Competition much better – this was also the general opinion and agreed to.Mrs Cooper announced that Mrs Stevenson (Hon Sec) regretted that she had made various mistakes in writing notices and these were due to ignorance of the game and she would avoid them in future if she could, but was doubtful about doing so.Mrs Ashe in speaking of Medal Rounds for the coming year, asked if members preferred a 9 hole or 18 hole competition. Mrs Cooper proposed that 18 holes should be played and it was discussed and put to the vote and carried by a large majority that only 9 holes should be played.

Officers for 1924Captain – Mrs Ashe

In 1904 there were 59 Lady members.

October 10th 1904 - Committee MeetingMrs Ashe having received a challenge from the ladies of Marple Golf Club, it was decided, after discussion that the challenge should be accepted on condition that the Marple Ladies would consent to coming to Hale and October 20th was fixed for the date. It was decided to give lunch and the subject was carefully thought out.

Jan 26th 1905 - Committee MeetingIt was decided that future Medal Rounds should be played during 8 months in the year, beginning in April and that competitions should be 18 holes, not 9 holes as before.Mrs Glascott having written, urging the Ladies’ Club to join the Golf Union, Mrs Stevenson was requested to write agreeing to join.Mrs Cooper wished to know if anything could be done for the Ladies on Bank Holidays and the whole committee agreed to ask if ladies might play with men during certain hours on those days, when so many people are away from home and there is really plenty of room.The ladies would like to do their own handicapping, thinking that handicaps might be lowered as a regular thing after a win.

March 7th 1905 – Annual General Meeting

Mrs Cooper announced that the Club had joined the Manchester District Ladies Golf Challenge Cup and that any members of Hale, who were disposed to enter for the Challenge Cup in June, could do so without charge of any kind.The Hon. Sec. Mrs Stevenson announced that during the summer Mixed Foursomes would be allowed after 5pm and that possibly three special prize days for mixed foursomes were in view. Medal rounds were only to be played during eight months, beginning in April, and would consist of 18 holes in future instead of 9. Several club matches were contemplated and the team would always be chosen according to handicap, in order to secure the best players available and to avoid hurting anyone’s feelings.The Ladies Committee would do the Ladies’ handicapping in future and intended to give a good deal of attention to it. The Hon. Sec mentioned that no cattle would be on the links, only sheep. This improvement having cost the club considerable expense in extra rent, it was hoped that plenty of support would be given during the season by the taking tea at the Clubhouse.Mrs O’Hanlon announced details of the Captain’s Prize to be played for on the last Thursday in every month, beginning with March – the best 12 cards taken out to play in the final – 18 holes against bogey – entrance fee 6/-, half of which to go to a second prize.Mrs O’Hanlon also gave the 5th and 8th of June as the dates for Mr Charlton’s Challenge Cup Competition, under the usual conditions and announced that Mrs Simons had offered a prize to be played for during May, June and July.

Officers for 1905Captain – Mrs CooperSecretary – Mrs Stevenson

March 27th 1905 - Committee MeetingThe arrangements for handicapping were made as follows: under 15 handicap drop 1 stroke for a win, over 15 and under 25 drop two strokes, over 25 and under 30 drop 3 strokes and over 30 drop 4 strokes, all as a general rule.

September 26th 1905 – Committee MeetingA letter having been received from the Hon Sec. of the Club asking for Ladies not to commence play after 5pm unless playing with a man, Mrs Stevenson was requested to write in reply, asking that in future, the names of offending ladies might be reported to her, so that she could complain to them in writing on behalf of the Ladies’ Committee.

March 10th 1906 – Committee Meeting.It was decided that in consequence of the Council having complained of Ladies playing together and blocking the course after 5 o’clock on summers evening last year, that the Ladies Committee would take the matter up and issue the following circular with the fixture card: ‘The Ladies’ Committee received a letter last summer from the Council of the Club complaining that ladies playing together after 5 o’clock had frequently delayed players following them and had not allowed them to pass, according to the Etiquette of Golf. If similar complaints are made this season, it is feared that restrictions will be placed on Ladies’ play during summer evenings. This refers most particularly to Wednesday evenings. The Ladies Committee request that special attention be given to the notice’.

March 18th 1906 – Annual General MeetingThe Captain related how a letter of complaint has been sent by the Council, because ladies often played together after 5 o’clock and without intending any harm, their slow play hindered all the couples behind them. Consequently the Ladies’ Committee had addresses a circular to every lady in

the club calling attention to the grievance and urging the importance of there being no further cause for complaint.With regard to Ladies’ Days, there was an advantage to report. Play with men being allowed after 4 o’clock on the last Saturday in the 6 summer months, but not necessarily foursomes. Mrs Stevenson also announced that Ladies might play with men during Whit Week and on August Bank Holiday.

Officers for 1906Captain – Mrs SimonsSecretary – Mrs Stevenson April 4th 1906 – Committee MeetingIt was decided to handicap in future according to Golf Union Rules:- take the players best score, double it, add her next best, divide by three then subtract the par of the greens. The handicap limit was altered to 36 from 40.

January 28th 1907 – Committee MeetingIt was decided only to have eleven Medal Rounds this year, so that the Final might be played in March, if possible before the General Meeting. Mrs Stevenson mentioned that one of the Men’s Committee had suggested that the Ladies’ Medal Round might be played any day in the month to suit each player’s convenience, but after discussing the matter, it was decided that no alteration was desirable and that the existing arrangement of 2nd Tuesday should hold good.

February 16th 1907 – Committee Meeting Mrs Stevenson suggested that a more efficient Hon. Sec. than herself might be easily found and offered to retire but the Ladies’ Committee unanimously voted that they wished her to remain.

Officers for 1907Captain – Mrs McConnellSecretary – Mrs Stevenson

May 16th 1907 – COUNCIL MEETING MINUTESThe bye-law be altered as follows: No member except a lady shall be handicapped until he shall have returned three signed cards with his score marked for 18 holes. A lady must return tow signed cards marked with the score for 9 holes.

1907 Match BookWorsley (Away) – Drawn 2 ½ - 2 ½Manchester A Team (Home) – Lost 4 – 2Worsley (Home) – Won 3 ½ - 2 ½Didsbury (Home) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Didsbury (Away) – Lost 2-4Old Manchester (Away) – 2 ½ - 3 ½

March 10th 1908 – Committee MeetingIt was decided to change Medal Day from 2nd Tuesday to 2nd Monday. It was decided that it would be a very good thing to join the Golf Union and ascertain to what extent the men of the club would assist financially the annual subscription being £1.1.0.

March 23rd 1908 – Annual General MeetingPoor attendance.It was decided to have 12 medal rounds and the Final.

Officers for 1908Captain – Mrs O’HanlonSecretary – Mrs Stevenson

May 30th 1908 – Committee MeetingA notice to be put up that men members are not available to mark ladies’ competition cards. Ladies’ Bogey to be 78 and the present cards to be altered accordingly. Dissatisfaction with the new catering arrangements; to be talked over with the House Committee.

November 6th 1908 – Committee MeetingAs a result of a LGU circular, arrangements were made to reduce handicaps over 25 on one score only, until they should get down to 26.In order to encourage winter play, it was decided to hold a competition, by Medal play so that he scores should be available for handicapping. Mrs Millard offered a prize and it was arranged as follows: 3 best cards returned by one player, medal play between November 9 th and April 30th.

1908 Match BookWithington (Home) – Won 4-2Manchester A Team (Trafford Park) – Won 4-3Withington (Away) – Lost 1-5Manchester A Team (Home) – Won 4-2Worsley (Away) – Lost 1-5Bowdon (Home) – Won 4 ½ - 1 ½Bowdon (Away) - Won 4 ½ - 1 ½Old Manchester (Home) – Won 5-1 (Played on November 11th 1908)

January 23rd 1909 – Committee MeetingIt was decided that silver spoons instead of buttons when 8 or more entries on Medal Days – much admired.It was decided to ask Council to make definite arrangements for Ladies’ Play and print them as fixture cards, without power of alteration.

February 22nd 1909 – General MeetingMrs Lloyd-Jones invited discussion as to the alteration of the Medal Day from a Monday, Mrs Stevenson finding it very unsuitable for the reports to the newspapers, which she now sent regularly. After due consideration it was voted and ultimately agreed that the Medal Day should be the 2nd Thursday, Captain’s Competition last Thursday and every Thursday the LGU scoring days.Mrs Stevenson reported very favourably on the result of joining the LGU with regard to fairness of handicapping and said there was a marked improvement in the play of members with low handicaps. This improvement did no yet extend to players with handicaps of over 25. The LGU are now giving a bronze medal for the best average in each club for players between 25 and 40 handicap, in addition to the silver medal for below 25 handicap, which medal had been won by Mrs Lloyd Jones with an average of 84. (Her handicap in June 1907 was 9).

Officers for 1909Captain – Mrs Lloyd-JonesSecretary – Mrs Stevenson

1909 Match BookWorsley (Home) – Lost 2-4Lymm (Away) – Won 5-1Old Manchester (Away) – Drawn 2 ½ - 2 ½Didsbury (Home) – Drawn 3-3

Manchester A Team (Home) – Won 4-2Didsbury (Away) – Lost 2-4Worsley (Away) = Lost 0-6Manchester A Team (Trafford Park) – Lost 2-4

1910 Match BookBowdon (Away) – Won 4 ½ - 1 ½Manchester A Team (Home) – Drawn 3-3Worsley (Away) – Lost ½ - 4 ½Manchester A Team (Trafford Park) – Lost 2-4Worsley (Home) – Lost 1 ½ - 4 ½

Officers for 1910Captain – Mrs MacCaigSecretary – Lloyd-Jones

March 9th 1911 – Annual General Meeting (10 members present)A letter was read from the Hon. Sec. Mr Megson permitting ladies to engage caddies on competition and match days in advance but stating that if the boys were not made use of they must be paid for just the same.

Officers for 1911Captain – Miss MoirSecretary & Match Captain– Mrs Lloyd-Jones

From the Suggestion Book - March 11th 1911 Marjory Moir, L Goldsmith and A Lloyd Jones: Could the Committee see their way to making Mr Wolff an offer for the useless apple tree in front of the specially made, but useless, Ladies Tee at the 7th hole.

1911 Match BookDidsbury (Away) – Won 4-2Withington (Away) - Drawn 3-3Didsbury (Home) – Won 4-2Withington (Home) – Won 4 ½ - 1 ½Manchester A Team (Trafford Park) – Lost 2-4Manchester A Team (Home) – Drawn 3-3

March 11th 1912 - Annual General Meeting (12 members present)It was decided to hold a Summer Meeting on Friday June 28th with Medal and Bogey Competitions morning and afternoon.

Officers for 1912Captain – Mrs GoldsmithSecretary & Match Captain– Mrs Lloyd-Jones

March 21st 1912 – Committee MeetingThe dates of the Medal and Par Finals were fixed for April 22nd and April 15th respectively.

1912 Match BookBowdon (Home) – Won 5 ½ - ½Ashton-on-Mersey (Away) – Lost 1-4Bramhall (Away) – Lost 2-4Withington (Away) – Drawn 3-3Bowdon (Dunham – Lost 1-4Bell Cup

Disley (Home) – Won 3 ½ - 1 ½Bramhall Park (Home) – Lost 2-3

March 6th 1913 – Annual General Meeting (11 members present)The Summer Meeting was fixed for July 3rd and it was decided to have an All Prize Medal round in the morning and a Bogey Round and an Approach and Putting Competition in the afternoon.

Officers for 1913Captain – Mrs IbbotsonSecretary & Match Captain– Mrs Lloyd-Jones

June 11th 1913 – Committee MeetingFinal arrangements for the Summer Meeting were made. An 18 hole Medal round in the morning. Nine hole bogey in the afternoon… Also an approach and putting competition – 3 balls at one hole.

1913 Match Book Bowdon (Dunham) – Drawn 3-3Bowdon (Home) – Won 5-1Bell CupWorsley (Home) – Won 4-1Bramhall Park (Away) – Lost 1-4

February 12th 1914 – Annual General Meeting (12 members present)It was decided to hold a Summer Meeting similar to last year. Mrs Ashe and Mrs Waterhouse very kindly offered prizes for Ladies’ Foursomes on that day and a prize for an Approach and Putting Competition was kindly promised by Mrs Fortune.It was decided that the club prize of one guinea should be given for the Bogey Final.

Officers for 1914Captain – Mrs BridgfordSecretary – Mrs Lloyd-JonesMatch Captain – Miss Moir

October 2nd 1914 – Committee MeetingIt was also decided that until further notice all entrance fees should be devoted to some branch of the Local Relief Fund and that there should be an entrance fee of 6d to the monthly medal instead of the usual optional 6d sweep. All club matches were cancelled owing to the war.

1914 Match Book Timperley (Away) – Lost 3-4Timperley (Home) – Won 4-3Knutsford (Home) – Won 5 ½ - ½Matches against Knutsford, Wilmslow and Bowdon were abandoned owing to the War.Bell CupFlixton (Away) – Won 3-2Timperley (Away) – Lost 1-4

March 3rd 1915 – Committee MeetingIt was agreed that owing to the War, an Annual General Meeting should not be called this year and that the present officers should be asked to stand for another year.It was decided for the present Competition Cards might be taken out up to any hour as several of the members were interested in ‘Red Cross’ and other work and could only play at certain hours.

It was agreed that the Monthly Medal competitions should be held as usual and that the Annual Club Prize of one guinea should be given for the Finals, also that the Monthly Bogey Competitions should be played for the “Queen’s Work for Women” brooch medals presented by “The Gentlewoman”.

April 15th 1916 – Committee MeetingIt was decided that the Medal and Bogey Competitions should be discontinued for the present as there were so few competitors last year.

February 19th 1920 – Annual General Meeting (11 members present)It was decided that the 1st and 2nd Thursdays in March should be Medal Days and the 3rd and 4th Thursdays Bogey Days.The following fixtures were agreed upon: Medal Final – Friday April 16 th, Bogey Final – Friday April 23rd, Summer Meeting – Friday June 25th, medal round in the morning, 9 holes Bogey in the afternoon. Approach and Putting Competition and Putting Competition.

Officers for 1920Captain – Mrs BaileySecretary – Mrs Lloyd-JonesMatch Captain – Miss Bridgford

In 1920 the Entrance Fee was 2 guineas and the Annual Subscription for Lady Members was 2 guineas.

1920 Match BookRingway (Away) – Lost 1 ½-4 ½Withington (Away) – Won 4-2Mr Megson’s Team (Home) – Lost 1 ½ - 5 ½Timperley (Home) – Lost 2 ½-3 ½Ringway (Home) – Won 4-2Bowdon (Away) – Lost 2-4Timperley (Away) – Won 4-1Fulshaw (Away) – Won 4-2Didsbury (Away) – Won 3-2Fulshaw (Home) – Won 3 ½ - 1 ½Withington (Home) – Won 4-2Didsbury (Home) – Won 6-0Bowdon (Home) – Won 5-1Ringway (Home) – Won 3 ½ -2 ½Timperley (Away) – Drawn 3-3Bell CupBolton (Away) – Lost 2-3

February 16th 1921 – Committee MeetingIt was agreed to hold a competition in aid of the Soldiers’ Distress Fund. Entrance fee 5/-. 18 hole medal round on Friday February 25th. All proceeds to go to the Fund.

March 15th 1921 – Annual General Meeting (small attendance)The following fixtures were agreed upon:Medal Final – May 10th

Bogey Final – May 11th

Summer Meeting - July 7th (12 holes Medal in the morning. 9 holes one Club competition in the afternoon and a Putting and Approach competition).

Officers for 1921Captain – Miss Lloyd

Secretary – Mrs Lloyd-JonesMatch Captain – Miss Bridgford

1921 Match BookRingway (Away) – Won 4 ½ - 1 ½Bowdon (Home) – Won 4 ½ - 1 ½Stockport (Home) – Drawn 3-3Timperley (Home) – Lost 1-5Bramhall (Away) – Won 4 ½ - 1 ½Timperley (Away) – Lost 2-4Stockport (Away) – Lost 1 ½ - 4 ½Ringway (Home) – Won 4 ½ - ½Bramhall (Home) – Drawn 3-3Bell CupWilmslow (Home) – Won 4-1Deane (Away) – Lost ½ - 4 ½

March 9th 1922 – Annual General Meeting (9 members present)

Officers for 1922Captain – Mrs HumphreysSecretary – Mrs Lloyd-JonesMatch Captain – Miss Bridgford

1922 Match BookChorlton (Away) – Won 3-2Timperley (Away) – Lost 2-4Chorlton (Home) – Won 4 ½ - 1 ½Buxton (Away) – Won 3-2Ringway (Home) – Won 5-1Didsbury (Home) – Won 4-2Stockport (Away) – Lost 2-4Chorlton (Away) – Won 3 ½ - 1 ½Bowdon (Away) – Lost 1-4Bramhall (Home) – Won 6-0Bramhall (Away) – Won 3-2Didsbury (Away) – Drawn 3-3Ringway (Away) – Drawn 3-3Timperley (Home) – Drawn 3-3Bowdon (Home) – Won 4-2Stockport (Home) – Drawn 3-3Bell CupFairfield (Home) – Lost 2-3

February 13th 1923 – Committee MeetingIt was suggested that a Visitors’ Day should be held during the season – particulars of the same to be announced later.

March 7th 1923 – Annual General Meeting (11 members present)The Hon Sec. recorded a credit balance of £1-13-2 and the accounts were passed.

Officers for 1923Captain – Miss BridgfordSecretary – Mrs Lloyd-JonesMatch Captain – Miss Bridgford

1923 Match BookDidsbury (Home) – Won 5-1

Prestbury (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Ringway (Home) – Lost 1-5Chorlton (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Bowdon (Home) – Drawn 3-3Timperley (Away) – Lost 0-6Didsbury (Away) – Won 5-1Prestbury (Home) – Won 4-2Chorlton (Home) – Won 5-1Bowdon (Away) – Lost 0-5 on December 5th 1923!Bell CupReddish Vale (Home) – Won 4-1Wilmslow (Away) – Lost 2-3

December 11th 1924 – Annual General Meeting (19 members present)It was proposed that in future the Monthly Medal and Bogey Competitions should begin in January and end in December of the same year, and that the finals should be played in March of the following year.Miss Bridgford drew the attention of the members to the heel marks on the course and asked them to wear broad heels in the future.

Officers for 1925Captain – Mrs O’NeillSecretary – Miss BridgfordMatch Captain – Miss Moir

1924 Match BookTimperley (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Ringway (Home) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Didsbury (Home) – Won 4 ½ -1 ½Hale (Home) – Won 5-1Prestbury (Home) – Won 4 ½ - 1 ½Bowdon (Away) – Drawn 3-3Prestbury (Away) – Lost 2-4Manchester (Hopwood) – Won 3-2Manchester (Home) – Won 4-1Bell CupNorth Manchester (Away) – Lost 2-3

October 28th 1925 – Committee MeetingThere should be no sheltering except during thunder and lightning.Competitors are disqualified if their names are not entered in the book, placed for that purpose, before any competition.

December 10th 1925 – Annual General Meeting (17 members present)Medal and Bogey Finals were fixed for March 19th and 26th.

Officers for 1926Captain – Miss ClanahanSecretary – Miss BridgfordMatch Captain – Miss Moir

1925 Match BookBowdon (Home) – Lost 2-4Bowdon (Away) – Lost 2-4Bell CupRomiley (Home) – Won 4-1Bowdon (Away) – Won 3-2

Wilmslow (Away) – Won 3-2Macclesfield (Wilmslow) – Won 3-2 Semi-FinalTimperley (Chorlton) – Lost 3-4 Final

June 7th 1926 – Committee MeetingIt was decided that no non-handicap member should mark for a competition in any competition, including the Monthly Medal and Bogey Competitions.

December 9th 1926 – Annual General Meeting (20 members present)It was agree to have Winter Knock Out Foursomes.

Officers for 1927Captain – Mrs FortuneSecretary – Miss BridgfordMatch Captain – Miss Moir

1926 Match BookWilmslow (away) – Won 4 ½ - 1 ½Bowdon (Home) – Won 4-2Sale (Away) – Lost 1 ½ - 4 ½Bowdon (Away) – Drawn 3-3Sale (Home) – Won 5-1Didsbury (Home) – 4 ½ - 1 ½Chorlton (Home) – Lost 2-4Prestbury (Away) – Lost 1-5Prestbury (Home) – Drawn 3-3Wilmslow (Home) – Won 4-2Bell CupWerneth (Home) – Won 4-1Macclesfield (Home) – Lost 2-3

April 21st 1927 – Committee MeetingIt was unanimously passed that there were sufficient lady members – accommodation being limited and being nine holes made the competitions liable to be crowded – at the same time we had to allow for the relations of members elected during the next few months and therefore the ladies did not wish to elect any more extra ladies.

December 8th 1927 – Annual General Meeting (26 members present)Attention was drawn to players having caddies – if competitors without caddies were slower and lost their place those with caddies should be asked to go through – no rule could be made, it being golf etiquette.

Officers for 1928Captain – Miss AshworthSecretary – Miss BridgfordMatch Captain – Miss Moir

1927 Match BookBowdon (Home) – Lost 2-4Wilmslow (Away) – Won 4-2Chorlton (Home) – Won 6-0Sale (Home) – Drawn 3-3Wilmslow (Home) – Won 4-1Bowdon (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Sale (Away) - Lost 1-5Chorlton (Away) – Drawn 3-3

Bell CupReddish Vale (Home) – Lost 2-3

August 9th 1928 – Committee MeetingThe windows in the Ladies Cloakroom be covered with white frosted paper.

November 22nd 1928 – Annual General Meeting (25 members present)A letter from the men was read re the marking of golf balls, Robinson having a machine for that purpose; to register your number to enable lost balls to be returned to their owner.

The Hon. Sec. drew the attention to the heel marks on the course and hoped that Ladies would wear low flat heels.

Officers for 1929Captain – Mrs DarlingtonSecretary – Miss BridgfordMatch Captain – Miss Clanahan

1928 Match BookWilmslow (Away) – Drawn 4-4Bowdon (Home) – Drawn 5-5Prestbury (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Ringway (Away) – Lost 2-4Wilmslow (Home) – Drawn 4-4Prestbury (Home) – Won 6-0Sale (Away) – Lost 2-4Ringway (Home) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Bowdon (Away) – Drawn 5-5Macclesfield (Away) – Won 4-1Bramhall (Away) – Lost 2-3

December 6th 1929 – Annual General Meeting (24 members present)Proposed by Miss Bridgford that the Charlton Cup should be played as a knock-out – not the last three months every year – names to be entered on a sheet hanging in the club – open to every handicap member in the club. This was carried by 19 -5.

Officers for 1930Captain – Ruby TurnerSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

It was decided to alter the Summer Meeting that it should be 18 holes and that after lunch 9 holes with 1 club be played.

1929 Match BookWilmslow (Away) – Lost 1 ½ - 5 ½Bowdon (Home) – Won 7 ½ - 2 ½Timperley (Home) – Won 7-3Bowdon (Away) – Lost 4-6Wilmslow (Home) – Won 6 ½ - 1 ½Bell CupManchester (Hopwood) – Won 6-1Macclesfield (Home) – Won 6-1Prestbury (Away) – Lost 2-5Other matchesLadies v Men – Lost 1-4Married v Single – Drawn 4 ½ - 4 ½

Bachelors v Spinsters – Lost 2-5Married v Single – Drawn 2 ½ - 2 1/2

November 20th 1930 – Annual General Meeting (28 members present)Alteration in Medal Day – it was proposed by Mrs Turner that the Monthly Medal should be changed to the 2nd Monday and the Bogey remain on the 4th Thursday as before. This was carried 24 – 4.

Officers for 1931Captain – Mrs C HardingSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

1930 Match BookBowdon (Home) – Won 5-3Ringway (Away) – Lost 1-3Wilmslow (Away) – Lost 1-7Bowdon (Away) – Lost 4-6Ringway (Home) – Drawn 3-3Bell CupNorth Manchester (Away) – Lost 2-5

December 9th 1931 – Annual General Meeting (27 members present)Competition days should be played all day till 3 o’clock.

The Mens’ Council were pleased to extend to Miss Wilson courtesy of the course while she was Lady Open Champion.

Particular attention was drawn to ladies play at the weekends. They were asked very particularly to stand aside and allow the men to go through, the weekends being the only time the men had for golf.

Attention was drawn to the high heels and to the unplaced divots during the winter months. A request was made for lump sugar and slop basins for tea.

Officers for 1932Captain – Aileen FaulknerSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

1931 Match BookSandiway (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Delamere (Home) – Lost 1-6Warrington (Away) – Won 5-3Bowdon (Home) – Won 5 ½ - 4 ½Warrington (Home) – Won 7-1Delamere (Away) – Lost 1 ½ - 5 ½Bowdon (Away) – Lost 1-9Sandiway (Home) – Won 3 ½ - 2 ½Bell CupNorth Manchester (Away) – Won 4-3Wilmslow (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 4 ½

January 25th 1932 – Committee MeetingThe following dates were fixed:Medal Final – March 11th

Bogey Final – March 21st

Summer Meeting – June 27th

Visitors Day – July 4th

October 1st 1932 – Committee MeetingThe draw for the Charlton Cup was made and the dates for each round fixed. The Final to be played December 5th or 6th.

December 8th 1932 – Annual General Meeting (26 members present)

Officers for 1933Captain – Miss C ClanahanSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

1932 Match Book Warrington (Away) – Lost 3-5Wilmslow (Away) – Won 5 ½ - 1 ½Bowdon (Home) – Lost 3 ½ - 4 ½Didsbury (Away) – Drawn 4-4Warrington (Home) – Lost 3-5Didsbury (Home) – Won 5-3Bowdon (Away) – Lost 1 ½ - 7 ½Wilmslow (Home) – Won 4 ½ - 3 ½Bell CupCrompton & Royton (Home) – Won 6-1Didsbury (Home) – Won 5-2Manchester (Away) – Lost 3-4

1933 Match BookDidsbury (Home) – Won 4 ½ - 2 ½Stockport (Away) – Lost 1-5Wilmslow (Home) – Won 7-0Warrington (Home) – Lost 1-6Didsbury (Away) – Lost 1-6Wilmslow (Away) – Won 4-2Warrington (Away) – Lost 2-4Bowdon (Home) – Drawn 3-3Bowdon (Away) – Won 3 ½ - 2 ½Bell CupNorth Manchester (Home) – Won 5-2Wilmslow (Away) – Lost 1-6

Officers for 1934Captain – May AshtonSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

December 7th 1934 – Annual General Meeting (28 members present)Proposed by Miss Bridgford that the Match Teas should be altered to 2/- for each members and her partner. The teas for the visiting team to consist of: bread and butter, jam, egg and potted meat sandwiches, chocolate and plain biscuits.

1934 Match BookBowdon (Home) – Lost 2-4Lymm (Away) – Drawn 3 ½ - 3 ½Bramhall (Away) – Lost 3-4Wilmslow (Home) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Old Manchester (Home) – Won 4-3Didsbury (Away) – Lost 2-5Bramhall (Home) – Lost 1-5Wilmslow (Away) – Won 5-1

Old Manchester (Away) – Lost 2-5Bell CupMacclesfield (Away) – Lost 3-4

Officers for 1935Captain – Miss A GibsonSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

December 4th 1935 – Annual General Meeting (30 members present)It was proposed by Mrs Lloyd Jones that the Medal and Bogey days should both be on a Monday – the Medal 2nd Monday and the Bogey 4th Monday. This was carried almost unanimously.

In 1935 17 Medal Competitions and 12 Bogey Competitions were played throughout the year with an average of 14 players

1935 Competitions Book:January Medal: 4 entrants. Miss Bridgford won - 95/87.January Bogey: 6 entrants. Mrs Barwick won - 11 down.Charlton Challenge Cup, 33 entries – won by Miss Bridgford (Hcp 7) 1 up. In the December 18 hole Medal – 17 played, 5 NR’s, won by Miss Bridgford with 84/77.

1935 Match BookLymm (Home) – Won 6-1Wilmslow (Home) – Won 5-2Bowdon (Home) – Won 6-4Mere (Home) – Won 6 ½ - ½Wilmslow (Away) – Won 5-2Bowdon (Away) – Lost 2-5Mere (Away) – Lost 1 ½ - 5 ½Lymm (Away) – Lost 2-4Bell CupSale (Home) – Won 4-3Bowdon (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 4 ½

Officers for 1936Captain – Miss A FurnvalSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

December 2nd 1936 – Annual General Meeting (31 members present)Proposed by Miss Bridgford that the Medal and Bogey days should be changed from Monday to Tuesday. This was carried 27-3.

1936 Competitions Book:January Medal: 14 entrants. Mrs Mills won – 112/82. 9 NR cards.January Bogey: 6 entrants. Mrs Bourne won with 6 down.Charlton Challenge Cup, 38 entries – won by Mrs Cottam 1 up

1936 Match BookPrestbury (Home) – Won 6-1Bramhall Park (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 4 ½Wilmslow (Home) – Lost 3-4Bowdon (Home) – Won 5-2Old Manchester (Away) – Lost 2-4Prestbury (Away) – Lost 0-7Bramhall Park (Home) – Lost 2-5

Old Manchester (Home) – Won 7-0Wilmslow (Away) – Lost 2-5Bell CupChorlton (Away) – Lost 1 ½ - 5 ½

Officers for 1937Captain – Mirs G PrestwichSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

December 1st 1937 – Annual General Meeting (31 members present)

1937 Competition BookJanuary Medal: 19 entrants. Mrs Cottam won – 95/81. 7 NR cardsJanuary Bogey: 16 entrants. Won by Mrs Lloyd Jones with 11 down.

In 1937 the Ladies Section of Hale Golf Club boasted 5 lady members with single figure handicaps – Miss Bridgford (3), Mrs Bratby (5), Mrs Edwards (7), Mrs Ashton Smalley (8) and Mrs Watson (9).

1937 Match BookPrestbury (Home) – Won 4 ½ - 2 ½Old Manchester (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 4 ½Bowdon (Away) – Lost 2-5Bramhall Park (Home) – Won 4-3Prestbury (Away) – Lost 1 ½ - 5 ½Bramhall Park (Away) – Drawn 3 ½ - 3 ½Bowdon (Home) – Lost 2-5Old Manchester (Home) – Won 6 -1Bell CupWithington (Home) – Won 4 ½ - 2 ½Warrington (Away) – Lost 1-6

Officers for 1938Captain – Marion AshtonSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

January 31st 1938 – Committee MeetingThe following dates were fixed:Bogey Final – March 22nd

Medal Final – April 25th

December 7th 1938 – Annual General Meeting (27 members present)Miss Darlington proposed that the Medal and Bogey days should be changed to Thursdays – this was defeated by 5 votes to 22.

1938 Competition Book:January Bogey: 10 entrants. Mrs Edwards won – 13 downFebruary Medal: 22 entrants. Miss Edmondson won – 110/74.

1938 Match BookBramhall Park (Home) – Drawn 3 ½ - 3 ½Wilmslow (Home) – Lost 2-5Bowdon (Home) – Lost 2 ½ - 3 ½Old Manchester (Away) – Lost 3-4Bramhall Park (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 4 ½Wilmslow (Away) – Lost 1 ½ - 6 ½

Bowdon (Away) – Lost 2 ½ - 4 ½Bell CupBolton (Away) – Lost 1-6Officers for 1939Captain – May EdwardsSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

April 3rd 1939 – COUNCIL MEETING MINUTESUnanimously resolved that the Ladies Committee, in addition to their existing rights are hereby empowered to recommend for election ladies for 5-day membership with full privileges on those days at full entrance fee and subscription. Further, that no lady shall be deemed to be ineligible for consideration as a 5-day member because she has a male relation who is not a member of the Club or because she may be only a novice at the game of golf.

October 11th 1939 – Annual General Meeting (26 members present)The Hon. Sec. read her report for the year, particularly mentioning the enlargement to the Ladies’ Room and also the excellent golf played by the Captain during the year, reducing her handicap to 6. It was proposed that the Officers and Committee remain in office for the duration of the war. This was carried unanimously.It was proposed that members on war service away from the district should be excused their annual subscription. This was carried unanimously, subject to the Men’s Committee.It was passed that at the end of the war the Committee should start the club competitions as soon as possible without calling another General Meeting.

1939 Match BookSandiway (Home) – Won 4 ½ - 2 ½Prestbury (Away) – Drawn 3 ½ - 3 ½Bowdon (Home) – Lost 2-5Bramhall Park (Away) – Lost 1 ½ - 5 ½Bell CupChorlton (Home) – Won 7-0Lymm – (Away) – Lost 3-4

1939 Competition Book:January Bogey: 10 entrants. Mrs Edwards won – 9 down.The last competition of 1939 was played on August 22nd – a Bogey. There were 10 entrants and Miss Wolff won All Square.

Britain and France declare war on Germany September 3rd 1939.

Officers for 1940 to 1945Captain – May EdwardsSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

May 16th 1941 – Committee MeetingIt was decided to have a summer Party on Friday June 13th at 2 o’clock – competitions to be decided at the next meeting. 1/- entrance to be given to the RAF Benevolent Fund. Mrs Robinson was able to supply the tea, except for the tea-cakes and scones.

In 1945 the Annual Subscription for Lady Members was 4 guineas.

March 5th 1945 – COUNCIL MEETING MINUTESThe following arrangements for Ladies will operate until further notice:

Ladies may play at any time except on Men’s Competition Days subject to the following restrictions

a. Play on Saturday afternoons must not commence before 2pm and then only with men in 2 ball matches.

b. No luncheon can be provided for Ladies on Saturdays unless otherwise arranged by the Council but teas will be available.

On Saturdays and Sundays Ladies are not expected to enforce any privilege nor must they play in competitive golf except on Mixed Foursome Competition Days.

May 7th 1945 – Extra-ordinary General Meeting (30 members present)The Tobacco Fund had closed in favour of the Duke of Gloucester’s Fund – the total of £110 odd had been collected and 77 parcels sent out.

Ladies may play together on Saturdays after 3.45 from April to September.

September 26th 1945 – Committee Meeting It was passed unanimously that Miss Wolff’s handicap should be reduced to 12 until the end of 1945.

December 10th 1945 – Annual General Meeting (20 members present)

Officers for 1946Captain – Isabel HarrisSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

October 8th 1946 - Committee Meeting Date of Medal Final to be November 6th and Bogey Final to be November 15th.

November 29th 1946 – Annual General Meeting (36 members present)Proposed by Miss Bridgford that the monthly competition days should be changed from a Monday to the 1st and 3rd Thursday was passed.It was decided to start in 1947 the 1/- entrance for all Medals and Bogeys (£1.50 in today’s money)It was proposed that in future Country Members would be allowed to play in the Summer Meeting but not in the other prize days – this was carried unanimously.

1946 Competition BookMay Medal (first competition since 1939). 19 entrants, Miss Edmondson won 112/80.

1946 Match BookDidsbury (Away) – Lost 3-4Wilmslow (Home) – Won 6 ½ - ½Bowdon (Home) – Won 5-2Wilmslow (Away) – Lost 3-4Bowdon (Away) – Lost 1-6

Officers for 1947Captain – Mrs H CrastonSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

December 2nd 1946 – COUNCIL MEETING MINUTESThe Hon Sec was instructed to write to Miss Bridgford confirming that Ladies may not take out and mark cards on Saturdays and Sundays.

October 7th 1947 – Committee Meeting

It was decided to give vouchers as prizes for the Charlton Cup. £2-2-0 for 1 st and £1-1-0 for the runner up. Vouchers to be bought from Harrods.

November 12th 1947 – Annual General Meeting (60 members present)Before the Meeting commenced Mrs Craston expressed the gratitude of the club to Miss Bridgford for her 23 years as Secretary and asked her to accept a small token of their appreciation in a personal gift, also a silver salver to be known as the ‘Bridgford Trophy’ to be played for annually with a memento given annually by the men’s Council - at the same time authorising her to say the Hale Council were pleased to make her and Honorary Life Member of the Club.This was presented with applause – Miss Bridgford in thanking said she had had many happy years, enjoyed the work, and thought everyone far too kind and generous and said she would have to work harder in the coming year to earn her beautiful tokens.

In 1947 14 Medal Competitions and 13 Bogey competitions were played with an average of 16 players.

Officers for 1948Captain – Mary BratbySecretary – Cissie Bridgford

January 28th 1948 – Committee MeetingDates for the Bridgford Trophy to be June 8th and 10th. The secretary was asked to write to the Council for a silver spoon for the Bogey Final, a spoon in hand for the Medal Final and a ball for second prize in both events.

October 22nd 1948 – Committee MeetingA Captain’s v Secretary’s Match was fixed for Thursday November 11th at 1 o’clock. Fourball for 12 holes. Tea after the match.

November 29th 1948 – Annual General Meeting (43 members present)The Hon Sec. reported that a new professional had been appointed in September.The captain mentioned that Miss Bridgford had been made vice-president of the County. She also impressed the members that better match results were essential and hoped all the team members would practice hard for next year.

Officers for 1949Captain – Mrs E ThompsonSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

1948 Competition Book:March 11th Medal Final: Miss Wolff won 82/73.March 22nd Bogey Final: Miss Wolff won 4 down.

In 1949 Ladies Membership was: Full = 116, Country = 9, Honorary = 11.

Suggestion Book – July 3rd 1949A Maddocks: It is suggested that a suitable person be employed on Sunday afternoons to keep the crowds of trippers off the course particularly at the 3rd and 5th holes.

Suggestion Book - November 24th 1949Mrs C MacCaig, Miss C Bridgford and Mrs M Maddocks etc: Could a white step be provided in the dark passage between the Ladies Locker Rooms – ladies are falling daily!

November 24th 1949 – Annual General Meeting (47 members present)It was proposed by Mrs Thompson that Thursdays should be the fixed day for the Ladies. It was defeated.It was suggested that the Professional should be in attendance on Competition Days and left to the Committee to make arrangements with the Men’s Council on the matter.

Officers for 1950Captain – Gladys Chester HowarthSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

April 3rd 1950 – COUNCIL MEETING MINUTESMiss Penny Meredith was elected a Junior Member.Lady Membership: Full = 118, Country = 9, Juniors = 7. 19th June 1950 – Committee MeetingProposed by Miss Bridgford that the Captain each year should be chosen by previous Captains – passed.Proposed by Mrs Bratby that the last 5 Captains should select the new Captain – carried unanimously.

November 30th 1950 – Annual General Meeting (37 members present)

Officers for 1951Captain – Kathleen BerrySecretary – Cissie Bridgford

Officers for 1952Captain – Gladys MacCaigSecretary – Cissie Bridgford

Officers for 1953Captain – Marjorie WolffSecretary – Elsie Morton

Officers for 1954Captain – Eileen HewittSecretary – Bunty Booth

PLEASE NOTE - Ladies‘ Committee minutes from 1951 to 1961 are lost

November 2nd 1953 – COUNCIL MEETING MINUTESIt was agreed unofficially that the number of full members be limited to 180, lady members to 136.

March 27th 1957 - MAIN CLUB Annual General Meeting

Miss Wolff had won the Ladies’ Cheshire Championship and the Captain congratulated her on a very fine performance. The Club had presented Miss Wolff with a travelling clock as a memento of the occasion.

In 1961 Lady Membership was:

Playing = 117

Non-Playing = 9Country = 6 Juniors = 14Honorary = 10

September 11th 1961 - COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES

The Secretary read a letter from the Hon. Sec Ladies’ Section recommending that the list for Playing Lady Members should be raised from 120 to 130. This suggestion was adopted.

Officers for 1961:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – Ella HadfieldSecretary – Rita Anderson

0ctober 17th 1961 - Committee Meeting

An apology received from Miss Bridgford who is expecting to enter hospital. The Captain suggested that the Committee should send flowers to welcome her to hospital.

A letter from Mr Cardwell suggested that the ladies membership should be closed at its present number of 120, except for wives of members. Miss Booth replied giving the effective playing members as 90. Council agreed that a further ten should be elected, but suggested that the Ladies Committee should vet any names before they are submitted to Council. The Ladies Committee had accepted this, providing this function was limited to seeing whether or not there was any objection, and that the decision was taken and conveyed by Council. It was further suggested that Miss Booth should write to Council proposing that an unattached lady should have two lady members as her sponsors and in the case of a couple, one sponsor should be a lady member.

Mrs Timpson proposed that the Card Clerks should play golf in the morning and make an early start with their afternoon duties.

November 23rd 1961 – Annual General Meeting (60 members present)

An innovation was a Prize given by Miss Booth for a Bogey Competition on a Thursday evening to include the business girls followed by a cold supper. This was enjoyed by all.

The American Tournament is being repeated to include the business girls, who are giving their full support.

The Bridgford Trophy was won by Mrs Timpson and the Captain likened her to a greyhound released from its trap when she vacated the chair, since when she had not been seen for dust.

The Secretary drew up a questionnaire on some of the Rules of Golf. No correct answer was submitted in spite of reference to ‘The Rules of Golf’ being allowed.

It was proposed by Mrs Barker that ‘Competitors with handicaps of over 30 shall play off 30 in the Captain’s and Lady Captain’s Day’. Mrs Barker explained that we now seem to have so many prizes between March and September that the two Captain’s days were losing importance. In order to raise them as a status symbol we are proposing what is only standard practice up and down the country. It is not directed against the higher handicaps. The proposition lost by a large majority.

Proposed by Mrs Hope ‘Markers in monthly medal and Bogey Competitions must be Lady Members of the Club’. Carried unanimously.

In 1961 17 Medal Competitions and 14 Bogey Competitions were played with an average of 11 players.

Officers for 1962:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – Doris GradonSecretary – Rita Anderson

February 6th 1962 – Committee Meeting

An apology was received from Miss Bridgford, who is still waiting for admission to hospital.

The Bell Cup now limits strokes given and received to 9.

Letter from the Men’s Committee complaining that Byelaw 7(ii) was not being observed. Notice to be displayed informing Ladies that play on a Saturday afternoon must not commence before 4.30.


During the year 12 Medals and 11 Bogeys had been played with an average entry of 25.

Officers for 1963:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – Janet VineSecretary – Rita Anderson


The Council had reduced the number of lady playing members to 125 and as the waiting list was long, new applications should be discouraged. The entrance fee was increased to £8-8-0. 13 new members had been elected, 11 resignations and two new honorary members.

Officers for 1964:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – Betty YatesSecretary – Rita Anderson


The committee had discussed the question of whether the business girls should play in the winter competitions but decided that as there was a rule forbidding competition play on Sundays, this would not be possible.

The total playing members are 125 - of these 72 have handicaps. The handicap regulations have changed for 1965. There will no longer be handicap Managers but each club will have a handicap Secretary.

Officers for 1965:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – Betty TetlowSecretary – Miss Griffiths

January 12th 1965 - Committee Meeting

The Captain (Betty Tetlow) reported that there was a balance in hand of £47-17-9. It was decided by vote that this should be spent on redecorating the Ladies Lounge (if Council would agree to this). Mrs Tetlow would get several estimates and accept one provided that it was £30 or under. The colour chosen was magnolia. The remainder of the money was to be spent on a battery clock, mirror and stool.


There are 125 playing members of which 65 have handicaps.

Officers for 1966:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – JoanTurnerSecretary – Rae Woodhouse

May 3rd 1966 – Committee Meeting

Five new members had been elected increasing the playing membership from 125 to 130. The Council had said that this was only a temporary increase and if there were any resignations new members would not necessarily be elected.

Proposed by Mrs Komrower and carried that The Council should be asked if the ladies could have a shower.

The Council had raised the entrance fee from £8-8-0 to £12-12-0. The men’s from £15-15-0 to £21-0-0.

Proposed by Mrs Murray that the value of ordinary club prizes should not exceed £3-10-0. (A quarter of the yearly subscription!!


The shower – The Council said that owing to the high cost involved they could not agree to this at present.

Mrs Grimshaw said there had been several complaints about dogs on the course. It was decided that this should be mentioned at the AGM.

November 24th 1966 - Annual General Meeting (58 members present)

During the year 12 bogeys and 12 medals have been played with an average of entry of 23.

It has been reported to the Committee that members were bringing dogs onto the course and the secretary asked that this should be stopped. The boys of St Ambrose School had been running over

the course and a letter had been sent from the Ladies Committee asking Council to write to the Headmaster.

It has been decided that the maximum amount spent on prizes, other than Captain’s prizes and Bridgford Trophy, should be £3-10-0.

Mrs Turner said that she wanted to say a word about Hale’s success this year in Matches. We are the only nine hole course in the Manchester and District who run a Scratch and Handicap Team. Our Scratch Team is not very strong yet but our Handicap Team is very good indeed. We were only beaten in our division by Prestbury – the winners and this only by 4-3. This standard could be kept up if the Captains and Match Captains received the support that they had done last year. It is an honour to play for the Club and outside matches should take precedence over club engagements.

Officers for 1967:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – Diana KomrowerSecretary – Rae WoodhouseMay 2nd 1967 - Committee Meeting

Mrs Moore said that a pram was often seen being wheeled over the practice ground. It was suggested that a letter be sent to Council…but after discussion it was decided that the Committee should first find out who was doing this.

November 23rd 1967 - Annual General Meeting (64 members present)

Mrs Murray reported that this had been the best year for the Scratch Team since the Shield Matches started. We had played Mere, Prestbury and Ringway. Won all the first three playing at home and lost the next three playing away. Of the 21 teams in the East Cheshire Shield only 7 run a Scratch Team and Hale is one of these.

During the year 12 bogeys and 12 medals have been played with an average of entry of 23. On prize days there have never been less than 24 players and on two occasions there were 40. Out of a total of 77 members with handicaps, 39 had reductions.

Officers for 1968:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain –Mary MurphySecretary – Eden Grimshaw

May 8th 1968 - Committee Meeting

The Secretary had again written to the Headmaster of St Ambrose complaining of the boys running across the greens and bunkers and the Headmaster had replied apologising and saying that he would investigate the matter.

Mrs Murray said that she had been asked if we could make some new flags and several members agreed to do this.

October 8th 1968 - Committee Meeting

Miss Wolff had kindly made all the flags for which Mrs Murray expressed thanks. Miss Wolff said the material had faded very quickly and that she was willing to make further flags, but not in that material.


Matches: Miss Wolff reported a disappointing record for the Scratch Team as we had been defeated in the first round of the Bell Cup against Hazel Grove and had not won any matches. There had, however, been some splendid individual victories and Mrs Woodhouse had succeeded in taking Miss Chadwick (the reigning Open British Champion) to the 18th green at Hale before losing. Miss Wolff had attended a meeting of the East Cheshire Shield Committee and it had been decided that in future there would be no more Scratch Matches. There would now be ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams played on handicap.

Bridgford Trophy: for the second time since this event started, the Trophy was played for over 18 holes instead of the customary 36 holes as the first day was a complete wash-out.

Doris Chambers Cup: Held at Delamere Forest in September. Mrs Komrower and Mrs Hope had a magnificent victory and brought the cup to Hale for the first time. In the quarter final they beat the ex-Cheshire Champion Mrs Briggs and Mrs August. In the semi-finals they had a spectacular win over the reigning Cheshire Champion Mrs Comboy and her partner Mrs Kershaw, both of Delamere by 4-3 and in the afternoon final they fought their way to victory over Mrs Trespass and Mrs Moore of Warrington with a win of 3-2.

We had been fortunate this year to have had at Hale a visitor of note – Miss Heather Booth, the New Zealand International. On May 21st she shot a gross 71 – the best gross score by a lady golfer on our course.

Since the last meeting the waiting list has been reopened and there were 17 on it. Our playing membership is still kept at 125 and of these 66 have handicaps. Average entry in competitions is 35, the highest being 46.

In March the Council bought in a new rule for Non-Playing Members. Previously they were not allowed to play at all but may now play 6 times a year on payment of a Green Fee. The qualification for transfer to Non-Playing Membership is 10 years continuous membership or physical disability, arising during membership preventing playing golf.

Officers for 1969:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – Pam BronnertSecretary – Eden Grimshaw

May 5th 1969 – Committee Meeting

A contribution of £66-0-0 from the Ladies’ Section had been sent to the House Committee, covering the cost of 6 sets of stainless steel tableware.


The waiting list for Ladies had reached 29. Our playing membership remains at the top limit of 125, of this number 79 have handicaps. During the past year 11 monthly Medals and 11 Bogey Competitions had been played with an average entry of 26.

In view of rising expenses the Entry Fees for Monthly Medal and Bogey Competitions be raised to 2/-

Officers for 1970:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain - Barbara HopeSecretary – Eden Grimshaw

February 4th 1970 - Committee Meeting

Mrs Bronnert said that there had been several complaints from members about dogs being taken on the course by members who were playing. The Secretary said these members had been asked repeatedly (from October 1966) not to do this, but it still continued. Mrs Bronnert proposed that a letter be sent from the Ladies’ Committee to Mr Conroy requesting his support in this connection and asking him to write to the people concerned.

June 9th 1970 - Committee Meeting

The Lady Captain reported that the Captain had informed her by phone that the following ladies applications for membership had been submitted by the Membership Committee to Council and had been put up on the board. All the names were not submitted by the Ladies Committee. Their list had been returned as unsuitable and after long consideration another list was drawn up.

There was some discussion and the general feeling of the Committee was disappointment that the recommendations it had made had been largely disregarded. A great deal of time and thought had been given to the selection of names on the latter list and earlier one which had also been rejected. This, in spite of the fact that the names were selected with due regard to Council’s instructions. There was no point in holding these discussions if the Ladies’ Committee have no influence in the choice of new lady members. It was decided that a letter be sent for Council’s consideration to the effect that if selection is to be made entirely by the Membership Committee, would it be possible for the Ladies to be represented when new Lady Members are being considered.

October 13th 1970 - Committee Meeting

Annual Dinner: The Lady Captain reported that after discussion at the Sub-Committee Meeting it was decided to hold a Dinner Dance at the Royal George Hotel, Knutsford. The suggested date was Friday 26th Feb 1971. Menus were submitted for consideration and it was decided to select one which would bring the overall charge to £6 per double ticket. It had subsequently been decided to change the date to April 1971.

In his reply to the Lady Captain’s letter the Captain regretted the feelings of the Ladies’ Committee. It was felt that the best interests of the Club, which has such a strong family atmosphere, were best served by giving special consideration to members’ wives on the waiting list. It would seem advisable that the Ladies’ Committee when putting forward nominees for vacancies should in future write a short written statement giving reasons for recommendations, particularly in the case of non-wives. The Membership Committee did not feel it would be necessary for the ladies to be represented but where there were any doubts or future information required they would consult a

representative of the Ladies’ Committee. In this way it was hoped that any further misunderstanding would be avoided and that new lady members would be elected in accordance with the wishes of all concerned.


During the past year 12 Monthly Medals and 11 Bogeys had been played with an average entry over the year of 22. Playing membership remained at 125, of this number 71 have handicaps. Council had recently approved the election to Playing Membership of 5 wives of members and Mrs Peter Veitch had been transferred back to Playing Membership. There were 14 completed applications awaiting consideration and many more still requiring the requisite number of sponsor’s letters.

It had been decided in Committee that it would relieve some of the pressure of work on the Secretary if a Treasurer was appointed, and as Mrs Hope would be serving on Committee next year she had agreed to be nominated as Treasurer.

Last year at the Summer Meeting we had an 18 hole bogey Foursome in the morning and a 9 hole medal foursome in the afternoon, followed by putting. As this had proved rather tiring for some people it was suggested that the afternoon comp be run as an alternative to putting. This might be 9 hole with one club and a putter eightsome.

Officers for 1971:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – Ruth FlintSecretary – Eden Grimshaw


Arrangements for the Annual Dinner Dance had been finalised. The Dinner would be held at the Royal George Hotel, Knutsford at 7.45 for 8.30pm and dancing would continue until 1am. It was decided to limit the number to 150, each member being allowed to bring one guest. Cost of the tickets would be £3.10.00 each including wine and the higher priced menu was regarded as most suitable.


On the whole the Annual Dinner Dance had been a great success but there had been minor criticisms. There was a late start at dinner and service was slow and dancing had only started at 11.30. Mrs Hope suggested that perhaps it wold be better to hold the occasion at a smaller hotel and to limit the tickets which had not been easy to dispose of.

Complaint had been made about the ladies playing competitive golf on Sundays and the Hon. Sec had put a notice reminding ladies of the Club Rule 8(11) governing Ladies’ play.

Complaints had been voiced about young children being brought to the main lounge on Competition Days and also at times actually playing on the course, and the Secretary was asked to mention this to the members concerned.


There had been more complaints about the congestion on the 1st tee and the Committee were fully aware of the problem. It was decided that competitors may drive from the 1st tee when the preceding couple had passed the corner of the Practice Ground and the hedge. It was also

suggested that the clock in the Ladies’ Locker Room be checked as correct, so that competitors were out on time. To avoid further congestion on the course it was proposed closing the morning time sheet at 10.20 and starting the afternoon one at 12.20.


Mrs Komrower reported a disappointing result for the Scratch Team, seven matches being lost out of eight played. After discussion by the Lady Captain and her committee it was regretfully decided to withdraw the Scratch Team for 1972 and the Handicap Team only would be entering the E.C. Shield. 21 clubs would take part in the Handicap Division and Hale would meet Ashton-on-Mersey, Warrington, Bramall Park and Dunham Forest. Mrs Komrower expressed deep appreciation of the Hale Teams for the excellent teas provided by Mrs Cunningham. Mrs Rocca also regretted having to report a disappointing record for the Handicap Team – two matches were won out of eight.

The Junior Comp was run by Mrs Bronnert and Mrs Fisher during the Easter holiday. 12 Juniors entering – all boys – the winner of the senior group being Stephen Gold.

The Secretary reported that during the past year 12 Monthly Medals had been played with an average of 28 (4 up on last year) and 12 Monthly Bogeys with an averaged entry of 27 (7 up on last year). Playing membership remains at 125, of this number 81 have handicaps. Twelve new members have joined and there were 16 applications on the waiting list.

The Lady Captain presented the Charlton Challenge Cup to Mrs Judith Wainwright who said she would greatly treasure the prize of two Dresden-type china figures.

In 1971 18 medals Competitions and 12 Bogey Competitions were held with an average of 30 players.

Officers for 1972:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – Bea ShawSecretary – Joyce Fisher


There had been 20 entries at 35p per couple for the Coronation Foursomes, some members thought this was a high entry fee and the desirability of running this event next year would be brought up at the AGM.

June 2nd 1972 – Extra Committee Meeting with Chairman of Greens ( Mr C Mawson)

It was agreed that while the overall number of Ladies’ Matches had not increased from the previous year, in future to avoid match congestion, the Ladies would submit to the Green Committee the prospective dates of all their matches and these dates would be altered as little as possible.

The Chairman requested that to avoid unnecessary complications on Wednesday afternoons, the Ladies, wherever possible, were to refrain from playing knock-outs and other forms of competitive golf. The Chairman would ascertain what period of time the first tee should be reserved for retired members wishing to play golf on such a day.

After discussion the Ladies’ Committee decided that if the present tacit understanding that Ladies did not play from say 1.30 to 2.15 had not worked satisfactorily, and if Council so desired, a notice would be put up reserving the tee from 1.30 to 2.30 on Wednesdays. As Ladies did not play on

Sunday mornings or on the morning of public holidays, it was hoped there would be no further limitation placed on Ladies’ play.


12 monthly medals have been played with an average entry of 31 (3 up on last year). In the monthly bogeys the average entry was also 31 (4 up on last year). Our playing membership remains at 125, and of this number 77 have handicaps. There are 18 completed applications for membership on the waiting list.

The Summer Meeting was a very successful day – 48 players entered for the 18 hole Bogey Fours in the morning. The same partnerships played afternoon Medal Fours. Two Visitors days were held as an experiment to avoid overcrowding of course and clubhouse and it was evident that the experiment was a success.

The Treasurer reported a balance of £140.75

The Secretary announced that in the past year 12 monthly Medals had been played with an average entry of 31. In the monthly Bogeys the average entry was also 31. Both these competitions show a rise in entries over 1970 namely 7 respectively. Our playing membership remains at 125, and of this number 77 have handicaps (fewer than last year). There are 18 completed applications for membership on the waiting list.

Lady members in 1972/3 Season:

Honorary Life Members - 2Honorary Members – 7Country Members – 11Junior Members – 6Full Playing Members - 122Non-Playing members - 10

Officers for 1973:

Lady President – Miss Cissie BridgfordCaptain – Rae WoodhouseSecretary –Joyce Fisher

January 31st 1973 – Committee Meeting

Miss Meredith asked if something could be done about the difficulties facing business ladies who wanted to play in the Ladies’ Medal and Bogey competitions in the summer. Being unable to play until early evening, they often found the course so busy that they were unable to complete the 18 holes. The Hon Sec agree to write to the Secretary of the club to see what could be done.

May 2nd 1973 – Committee Meeting

The Hon. Sec. had written to Council re the difficulties facing our business ladies playing in monthly medals and bogeys in the summer as the course was crowded. No reply had been received and the Hon. Sec. said that all she could do was draw attention to the club rule 4) which states that competitors have the right to pass non-competitors.

The Lady Captain reported that she had been invited to take part in the discussions on alterations to the Clubhouse and that another member should join her. Mrs Drummond accepted her invitation. Plans include at new kitchen, the re-siting of the bar, the demolition of the ladies and men’s quarters and rebuilding of the same, the new ladies’ lounge would have access to the bar and the main lounge would still be for mixed use.

November 22nd 1973 – Annual General Meeting (61 members present)

The deaths of Miss Bridgford and Miss Moir was announced – Miss Bridgford was the first and only President, an honour given to her when she retired as Hon. Sec.. The Bridgford Trophy was given to her when she had been Secretary of the club for 25 years and she gave it back to the club to be played for each year. She was a Vice-President, Captain and Champion of the county and always took a great deal of interest in the club even when she was no longer able to play.

Miss Moir was Captain in 1912 and was an honorary member. Her niece has given the club a cup which she (Miss Moir) won at a county meeting. Miss Woolff suggested it be played for as a scratch cup combined with the Bridgford Trophy and has very kindly offered to give us an Honours Board for this.

12 monthly Medals and Bogeys had been played. Average Medal entries were 29 and Bogeys 25. Our membership stands at 125 and of these 77 have handicaps.

Officers for 1974:

Captain – Daphne DrummondSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Sec – Barbara Hope

April 30th 1974 – Committee Meeting

Lady Captain announced that the Captain, accompanied by Mr Timpson, would be coming to talk to us about the Council’s decisions regarding the alterations to the clubhouse. She expressed her appreciation of the fact that the Ladies were being kept in touch and encouraged to express their opinions as to the plans.

The Hon Sec. pointed out that selection of wives for selection of membership was by no means automatic when husbands were elected. It was agreed to reconsider the waiting list of 10 at the meeting in October.

July 15th 1974 – Extraordinary Committee Meeting

The purpose of the meeting was to make arrangements for catering in the clubhouse during the alterations to the kitchen. As Mrs Cunningham would be without catering facilities until the alterations were completed, the Ladies’ Committee would have to make what arrangements they could and to this end a list was drawn up covering each fixture, what type of food could be provided and who would volunteer to bake cakes and make sandwiches. Tea making equipment has already been installed in the Ladies’ lounge.


12 monthly Medals and Bogeys had been played with an average of 25 and 24 respectively, both down on last year. 12 new members had been elected in 1974, there are now 2 vacancies. Playing membership was now 140 of whom 77 have handicaps.

In future clubs will be allowed to play 12 monthly medals during the eight months spring and summer. The word ‘monthly’ will be dropped.

Mrs Wood expressed her views on the building scheme and its effect on the lady members. She had resigned as Hon. Treas because she felt helpless to protect the interests of the ladies of the club in relation to the building scheme. She felt that, though this was no reflection upon the Ladies’ Committee or the Lady Captain, there had been a lack of representation and a lack of communication. She said that when we were asked for our opinions it was either too early or too late.

Mrs Wainwright pointed out that we were not voting members of the club and though we had a right to disagree we would not have any say in these matters.

Miss Anderson was in agreement with Mrs Wood and said there ought to be more liaison and she did not think we needed such elaborate decoration, the number of lights in the main lounge being an example.

Officers for 1975:

Captain – Freda LaverSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Sec – Barbara HopeTreasurer – Madge Nicholls

April 30th 1975 – Committee Meeting

The Hon. Sec. reported that we had 109 playing members and a further 5 applications before Council at present. The remaining membership was made up of 31 non-playing members, 7 Honorary, 13 Country and 4 Juniors making a total membership of 164. There is only 1 application on the list.


It was hoped that members would be happy with the final result of the building programme, and, in fact, if anyone felt that things might have been designed in a different way they would perhaps approach the Lady Captain or the Hon. Sec. who would explain the difficulties.

Lady Captain showed the meeting the lovely silver cup which had been presented by Mrs Shaw, and which would be played for next year by ladies defeated in the first round of the Charlton Cup. The cup had belonged to Mrs Shaw’s father and would be known as the ‘Bech Cup’.

During the year we had played 12 monthly Medals and Bogeys with an average of 28 in the former and 25 in the latter.

Lady Captain gave a resume of the building progress to date. Unfortunately the long window in the new lounge was the wrong size, the window would be boarded up in the meantime. Lady Captain invited discussion on the disposal of £483.00 accumulated for the benefit of the re-development. Various opinions were voiced and it was decided to pay the bulk of this fund to the men.

Officers for 1976

Lady Captain – Joyce WainwrightSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Secretary – Barbara HopeTreasurer – Madge Nicholls


During the year 12 monthly Medals and Bogeys had been played in which the average was 34 and 28 respectively .

Total membership is 165, of whom 107 are playing members, 37 non-playing, 6 country, 7 honorary and 8 juniors.

Lady Captain said that there had been requests for a shower in the Locker Room, particularly after the past two heatwave seasons. Details of costs were being obtained. Such a proposal had to be approved by Council.

Officers for 1977

Lady Captain – Eden GrimshawSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Secretary – Barbara HopeTreasurer – Madge Nicholls

January 24th 1977 – Committee Meeting

The estimate for the new shower had been received and had been approved by Council, who had offered to provide £100 towards the cost. The estimate was £226.00, including an element of £20 for curtains. It was agreed that rubber matting should be laid to prevent water penetrating the floor. In addition, users of the shower should provide their own towels.

November 24th 1977 – Annual General Meeting

Lady Captain announced that Mrs May Ashton had been made an Honorary Life Member.

12 Medals and Bogeys had been played with 31 and 27 players respectively. Total membership was now 175 of whom 111 are playing, 8 Honorary, 43 non-playing, 7 country and 6 juniors. During the year there were 11 new members, and at the present time we have 5 names before Council.

Council had given permission for certain members to play the Monthly Medals on the Sunday previous to the competition. Letters informing them of this would be sent out. The members named are M/s Meredith, Gourlay, Veitch, Shenton, Allen and Mawson.

Officers for 1978:

Lady Captain – Elaine RoccaSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Secretary – Barbara HopeTreasurer – Madge Nicholls


Following a number of requests from members, it was decided to seek permission to have a dinner party for ladies only. The Secretary was asked to get in touch with the Chairman of the House Committee.


Lady Captain announced that Miss M H Woolf would be the Lady President of Hale Golf Club Ladies’ Section.

During the year 12 Medals and 11 Bogeys were held with 35 and 35 players respectively. There are now 175 members of whom 115 are playing, 8 Honorary, 8 Country, 6 Juniors and 38 non-playing. 84 members have handicaps.

Officers for 1979

Lady Captain – Gwen KirknessSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Secretary – Barbara HopeTreasurer – Madge Nicholls


We had played 11 Medals and 12 Bogeys during the year. Entries in all Competitions was down, the average in Medals being 26 and Bogeys 19. Membership is now 184, of whom 120 are playing, 8 Honorary, 37 non-playing, 12 Country and 7 Juniors. During the year we have acquired 8 new members and there are 7 applications pending.

Wide wheels for trolleys would become obligatory from next October. It was against the rules for members to take their dogs onto the course, and in future identifying labels would have to be displayed on members’ golf bags to show membership and anyone not showing a label should be challenged.

The Lady Captain announced that we had commissioned a chair to be made by Messrs Thomsons for the use of Lady Captain. Mrs M Moore, the Lady Captain Elect, had generously offered to meet the cost.

Officers for 1980

Lady Captain – Mary MooreSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Secretary – Pamela OgdenTreasurer – Madge Nicholls


During the year we had played 12 Medals and 11 Bogeys. Average entries were 34 and 30 respectively. Our membership is now 187 of whom 119 are playing members, 44 non-playing, 8 Honorary, 10 Country and 6 Juniors. The Hon. Sec. had been informed that the subscriptions had to rise in 1981 – this amounted to a rise of £5 a year for playing members.

Officers for 1981

Lady Captain – Sylvia FishSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Secretary – Pat BrownTreasurer – Freda Laver


After much discussion the Committee decided to abandon the idea of having a photograph of Lady Captain displayed in the Clubhouse.

November 26th 1981 – Annual General Meeting – (92 members present)

We have played 12 Medals and 11 Bogeys, average entries were 35 and 27 respectively. We had 6 new members bringing membership to 188, of whom 2 are Life Members, 6 Honorary, 117 Playing, 47 non-playing, 11 Country and 5 Juniors. Of the playing members 88 have handicaps.

Officers for 1982

Lady Captain – Sheila GoldSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Secretary – Pat BrownTreasurer – Freda Laver


It was agreed to apply to Council to ask for the future Lady Captains to be excused their subscriptions in view of rising costs.


During the year we had played 12 Medals and 12 Bogeys. The average entries were 39 and 33 respectively. Total membership was 186 with 119 playing members, 2 Honorary Life, 6 Honorary members, 44 non-playing, 11 Country and 4 Juniors.

Many complaints had been received during the season regarding the condition of the course and these had been conveyed to the Green Committee.

Officers for 1983

Lady Captain –Anne HellawellSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Secretary – Pat BrownTreasurer – Freda Laver


During the year we have played 12 Medals and 12 Bogeys – average entries were 36 and 28 respectively. Our membership now stands at 189, of whom 2 are Hon. Life Members, 121 playing, 45 non-playing, 10 Country and 5 Juniors. 92 of these members have handicaps. During the year we have welcomed 4 new members and there are several applications in the pipeline. Notable activities during the year include the building of the causeway to replace the old bridge and the advent of the road which is hoped will save the course from the ravages of the tractors.

Officers for 1984

Lady Captain – Anne VeitchSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Secretary – Pat BrownTreasurer – Anne Hopwood


We had played 12 Medals and 12 Bogeys during the year with an average of 38 and 34 players respectively. This year we had 7 new members bringing our playing membership to 115, of whom 95 have handicaps. In other categories we have 2 Hon Life members, 6 Hon members, 44 non-playing, 15 Country and 3 Juniors.

Beginners must be able to play to 45 or better above SSS before they may play in LGU Medals.

Officers for 1985

Lady Captain –Pat BrownSecretary – Joyce FisherHandicap Secretary – Anne HellawellTreasurer – Jean Wallwork


The Committee agreed that during her term of office as Hon Secretary Mrs Hellawell could appoint a Competition Secretary from the Committee or outside at the discretion of the Lady Captain.

August 12th 1985 – Committee Meeting

It was suggested that the Bech Cup be discontinued and the cup awarded to the winner of the Bogey Final. The Lady Captain pointed out that the Bech competition was beset with walk-overs and did not seem to be over-popular. It was decided to bring up the suggestion at the AGM.


Despite our poor summer we had played our usual competitions. Average entry was 36 in the Medals and 33 in the Bogeys. Our membership now totals 184, composed of 117 playing members, 45 non-playing, 13 Country, 6 Honorary and 3 Juniors. We welcomed 2 new members. Many enquiries were received but the cost of joining deterred them. The Captain had indicated in his letter that the fees were to rise again in our section by £13 pa.

It was suggested that as, until this year, the Bech Cup had not been very satisfactory with too many walk-overs, it should be transferred to the Bogey Final. During discussions it was pointed out that this year it had been a success and all those who took part had enjoyed it. The motion was defeated.

The Lady Captain advised the meeting that in her will Mrs Ashton had bequeathed two miniature replica Charlton Cups, a pewter coronation bowl and 6 silver spoons. The committee had decided that the replica cups should be presented to the winners of the foursomes knock-out , the pewter bowl should be presented to the winner of the Evening L.G.U.. The evening LGU had been chosen as it was engraved with a date in May and also that competition gave the working girls a chance to compete.

The Lady Captain presented the retiring Hon. Secretary Mrs Fisher with a gold and steel watch and a gift token subscribed to by members of the Ladies Section. She had fulfilled the role of Hon. Sec. for 15 years with humour and efficiency. The job was demanding and Mrs Fisher had given her time and energy unstintingly.

Officers for 1986

Lady Captain – Elizabeth GourlaySecretary – Anne HellawellHandicap Secretary – Philippa NicholsTreasurer – Anne HorwoodOctober 1st 1986 – Committee Meeting

Mrs Lambert proposed that Match Secretaries should be paid £10 each to cover expenses and the Hon. Sec. be paid £100.


The Hon. Sec mentioned the increase in the numbers of people playing in competitions and the problems this was posing. The playing membership has increased during the year and the playing section was now nearly full.

Officers for 1987:

Lady Captain – Margaret HydeSecretary – Anne HellawellHandicap Secretary – Philippa NicholsTreasurer – Joyce Guest


Entries to competitions were averaging 40. There were 114 playing members, 42 non-playing, 10 Country, 5 Honorary and 2 Juniors. 87 have handicaps.

Mrs Bronnert asked that the Bogey Competitions be changed to Stableford. There was some discussion and mention was made of other clubs alternating the two. The motion was defeated 22 – 28.

Officers for 1988

Lady Captain – Joyce FisherSecretary – Anne HellawellHandicap Secretary – Philippa NicholsTreasurer – Joyce Guest


Before the start of the meeting the Captain informed the Council’s plan for a professional to be appointed. He was John Jackson from Bramall Park an assistant pro. He would give lessons and run a pro shop stocking balls, gloves, tees etc also sweets, crisps and possibly some clothing and clubs. He would be available most days. It was expected he would stay for about two years. He was on a month’s probation to see whether or not the system worked. The ladies were encouraged to support him.

The Lady Captain explained that Tony Timpson had generously offered a prize of a salver to recognise Hilda’s 50 year membership of Hale. A decision had been made to have a qualification for the competition. Everyone who returned a score of 75 nett or less over the 16 LGU medals each year would be entitled to play in the final.


Mrs Hellawell advised that we had lost 6 days to rain this year. Entrants for competitions averaged 43 and the lists were often full. The membership is 115 playing, 45 non-playing, 5 Honorary, 11 Country and 2 Juniors. 84 have handicaps.

Win Heath had brought off a unique treble in winning the Mixed Foursomes, Ladies Foursomes and the Charlton Knock out.

It was proposed by Mrs A Horwood that unused wedding hats should be worn on one occasion next summer – possibly Captain’s Day. After strong views were expressed on both sides a vote was taken and with 29 against and 28 for it was decided to pass it back to the committee.

Officers for 1989:

Lady Captain – Joan PendletonSecretary – Anne HellawellHandicap Secretary – Penny HughesTreasurer – Joyce Guest


Entries for competitions his year averaged 45. The playing membership is now full. 115 playing, 38 non-playing, 4 Honorary, 12 Country and 3 Juniors. The allocation is 120 playing but there is no room on the course for so many. We only want younger members and the system of application was reiterated. Proposers must take full responsibility for their nominees.

Officers for 1990:

Lady Captain – Maureen HarrisSecretary – Anne HellawellHandicap Secretary – Penny HughesTreasurer – Jennifer Bradley


The suggestion on playing in threes was discussed. It was decided that we ought to give it a try. The May Bogey was chosen for the experiment and we would see what happened. A gap of 8 minutes would be tried, with morning times from 9.00 to 10.15 (coming in at 12.30 to 1.45) and afternoon times from 12.10 to 1.15 or 1.30 (coming in at 3.40 to 4.45 to 5.00). This would allow 30 people out in the morning and either 24 or 30 in the afternoon.


Playing in three’s had been tried, and although it did enable more players to be fitted in, it was very slow and not popular. Education might be necessary to ensure that players were not taking too long over their play in this different format.


The Lady Secretary reported that much effort had been devoted to coping with large fields and various ploys had been examined. She noted that, in the summer, if players were to go out in threes over the period 8.30 – 10.00 with the afternoon group going out from 11.50 – 1.35 we could accommodate 72 people. She mentioned another option, viz. one of the limiting the field by

handicap, which arrangement seems more accessible to us that hitherto, as we are now required (under LGU rules) to play only 4 Medal competitions a year. This option will be examined further in 1991.

The Ladies Section now has its largest number ever of members with handicaps, viz 15 in Silver and 70 in Bronze divisions.

Officers for 1991

Lady Captain – Judith SutherlandSecretary – Joyce GuestHandicap Secretary – Penny HughesTreasurer – Jennifer Bradley

November 28th 1990 – Committee Meeting

The Secretary stressed the problems consequent on the large entries which are now the norm on Thursdays. The discussion led to some queries about the obligatory minimum number of Medals which an LGU-affiliated club is required to hold. Mrs Hellawell had been told that only 4 Medals p.a were obligatory. Previously the belief had been that 16 Medals must be held and our club had met this criterion. Clearly a requirement of only 4 Medals would be much easier to meet. The view of the Secretary was that we must have written confirmation of this.


The Secretary had written to Miss Lyall – handicap advisor for Cheshire – for clarification, Miss Lyall’s reply stated categorically that there is no LGU based obligation to run any Medal competitions whatsoever. However, in order to qualify for the Silver and Bronze LGU medals, four Medal competitions would have to be run. The matter was discussed and it was agreed that our club will continue to run Medal Competitions much as before – except for the winter months when we may opt for 14-hole and other variants.

Since the last meeting some Bye-Law changes had been adopted by Council - playing times for Ladies at Weekends: Some extended times for Ladies’ play had been agreed. On Saturdays they may start from 3.30, on Sundays from noon.

The point was made that ladies playing at the weekends must ensure that they avoid interfering with the men’s competitions. On men’s competition days it would be expected that the ladies would not start play until the last competitors had cleared the 10th green.


In 1991 14 Medal Competitions and 6 Bogey Competitions were played with an average of 44 players.

The Secretary had been contacted recently by the Men’s Secretary on the need for the Ladies Section to increase its membership and warned that there could be changes in our Thursday patterns of play if the number of Lady Members had to be increased.

There was a long and lively discussion re our policy relating to Thursday Medal play in winter. Many points of view were expressed, the discussion at first centring around the proposition that Thursday Medal play in December and January should be replaced by 9-hole competitions of the Stableford or

Bogey type. However, after some discussion it became clear that a significant number of people (28 v 21) preferred to continue to play 18 hole Medals in those months.

Officers for 1992

Lady Captain – Philippa NicholsLady Secretary – Joyce GuestHandicap Secretary – Penny HughesTreasurer – Jennifer Bradley


A letter was read from the Captain in which he pointed out the men’s concerns re our low number of Lady Playing Members. This stands at 108 including the 3 new members who have just been appointed. The letter pointed out that current budgeting by the Treasurer is based on a ceiling figure of 125 Lady Playing Members, and that we are well below that ceiling. His letter suggested that if we wished to keep our membership significantly below 125 we could well face an excess over- inflation subscription increase. This matter was discussed at some length. Members understood the dilemma which was that our Thursday fields are now larger than ever – thus presenting certain problems – but that if more money was needed it would seem that this can only be provided by an increased membership, increased subscriptions, or both. There was some resistance in the Committee to the idea of increased subscriptions although some members felt that an increase of say, £15 per annum was quite trivial.

Miss Booth has kindly offered two prizes – one for silver and one for Bronze for the 4 best Medal Competition cards, two of which must be returned before, and two after, June 30th. These prizes will be presented at the AGM.


Officers for 1993

Lady Captain – Patricia MossLady Secretary – Joyce GuestHandicap Secretary – Margaret GilmanTreasurer – Jean Barton

February 3rd 1993 – Committee Meeting

After consultation with the Lady Captain the Secretary had posted a notice stating that entry for either of 1993 Captain Days would require that 2 Hale Medal or Par cards must have been submitted in 1993 before the relevant Captain’s Day. Reference was made to the Hilda Timpson Trophy for which 4 x 1992 Medal cards were needed along with a maximum permitted score – yet to be announced.

The indications from Lady Members are that, when Mr and Mrs Hill are away for 3 weeks in September, we cannot ask our ladies to cover the catering. Lady Captain and Lady Secretary both felt that a discussion with the House Committee chairman was necessary and should be arranged well before September.

This led to a broad discussion re communications between the Men’s and Ladies’ Sections revealing a general feeling that our communications are haphazard and poor. One real answer to all this

seemed to be that we need a lady on the House Committee. It was therefore agreed that after the Men’s AGM has taken place we should put a suggestion in the Suggestion Book.


Since our last meeting we have been told by Mr Captain that there is now a place on the House Committee for a Lady member. He had requested that Vanessa Veitch be asked to serve. Vanessa has kindly agreed.

As to the future, the Committee agreed unanimously that House Committee Representative would be an appropriate choice for Lady Captain Elect on the grounds that:

1. The men could not, in any way, see the selection as inappropriate or unhelpful, and

2. Lady Captain Elect would probably find the appointment interesting and the experience useful.

Considerable dissatisfaction was expressed re the lack of provision of catering cover for the Stewards holidays – some of which are imminent and of which we have had no official notice. Arrangements were made to cover the two immediate Thursdays and to provide a Match Tea on the Monday between these two Thursdays. There followed a discussion as to how to address the problem in the longer term. Committee members felt very strongly indeed about these matters and after some discussion, the Secretary was asked to write to the Captain, setting out the case, as we see it and copying her letter to Mr Secretary and Chairman of House.

Margaret Gilman mentioned a recent incident at Mere involving a couple who failed to sign the Competition Book but who had paid the entrance fee. It had been thought that this would result in disqualification but an appeal to the LGU had resulted in their entry being accepted, the LGU said that any one of the three ways of registering intention to compete viz. signing the book, paying the fee or appearing on a list was acceptable. Thus, in an LGU competition the Club was not entitled to choose one of the three methods. This ruling had come as a complete surprise and seemed to constitute a complete departure from the instructions in the Handbook. The Secretary asked Margaret to get hold of a copy of the LGU letter. Meanwhile we shall abide by this new ruling, though, of course, we are entitled to insist on the use of the Competition Book for our own competitions.

May 13th 1993 – Extraordinary Committee Meeting

The Secretary reported that as requested she had written to Mr Captain etc. Mr Secretary had been first to collect and read his letter and though he was impressed with – and well understood – its content he thought that, at the present time, the receipt of such a letter might be an embarrassment to the Captain. After discussion the Lady Secretary had, somewhat reluctantly, agreed to withdraw the letter.

Meantime Mr Secretary promised her that the points made in the letter would be taken seriously by himself and, thereafter, by the Captain. At a House Committee meeting Vanessa would be able to raise all the issues.

The Ladies Committee were both dismayed and amazed to hear of this turn of events. However, they agreed that the Lady Secretary had no option other than to withdraw the letter, in the light of the assurances given by Mr Secretary.

Thus we await developments.

July 28th 1993 – Committee Meeting

Vanessa Veitch reported that, during the three months that she had been a member of the House Committee there have been no meetings and as far as she is aware, none are planned for the immediate future. Members agreed that is an unsatisfactory position. Everyone is aware that Vanessa has done her best – she has contacted the Chairman of House on a number of occasions – but, clearly, she is not in a position to call a meeting. Once again we await developments.


Barbara Grant said there had been a complaint from Ashton-on-Mersey concerning unacceptably slow play in a Friendly match by one of our players. This was discussed and it was agreed that Lady Captain should speak to the member and that she should not be selected to play in any future matches until the team captain felt confident that her slow play had been eradicated.

Lady Secretary had written to Mr Secretary making the points that were agreed at the last meeting, our understanding of the catering arrangements for the Stewards’ holidays and our wish to appoint Lady Captain Elect to the House Committee in her particular year. John Hughes had replied co-operatively. It was noted, appreciatively, that a meeting of the House Committee had now been held, that the catering arrangements for the Stewards’ holidays were satisfactory and that our proposal to have Lady Captain Elect as our House Committee representative had been accepted.


The Secretary explained that a seat on House, allocated initially by the men to Vanessa Veitch, is now available and that in the future it will be allocated to Lady Captain Elect as part of her duties. Thus, after a period of 83 years we now have in place a channel to the Men’s section.

Margaret Gilman emphasised that the Bridgford Trophy is an important competition and as such, she believed that it should be run according to LGU requirements to 36 hole competitions. The matter was discussed at some length and a consensus emerged: Members would prefer that the Bridgford should be played on consecutive days, thus enabling us to stay within LGU stipulation and, at the same time, to play both parts of the competition off the same handicap.

Officers for 1994

Lady Captain – Mrs M HarrisLady Secretary – Mrs DJ GuestHandicap Secretary – Dr M GilmanTreasurer – Mrs J Barton

December 8th 1993 – Committee Meeting

Jennifer Bradley said that she had been in touch with the House Committee Chairman to enquire about arrangements for future meetings. The Chairman is still very reluctant to arrange meetings, saying that he prefers to do House Committee business by telephone. Jennifer sees this situation as unsatisfactory and has stressed to John that meetings are necessary for ideas to be put forward. In particular, we need to discuss our request for a coffee machine and make arrangements for the Dinner Dance.


Jennifer Bradley reported that, in her first three months as our representative on House, there has not been a full meeting of the Committee.

Members expressed some dissatisfaction of the way in which the Ladies Lounge seems gradually to have been ‘taken over’ by the men. Firstly, there is the Spike Bar, now a fait accompli – and practically so when we first heard of it some months ago. However we understand this feature is now in its trial year and thus it is for us to monitor it and, should there prove to be any difficult features, we should note them and report back. Secondly, the Committee disapproved quite strongly of the present location of the new TV set (under a cover in the alcove of the lounge). Thirdly, our ladies have lately sometimes found themselves inconvenienced by groups of men playing bridge on several afternoons per week in our lounge, thereby interfering with access to the desk and sometimes somewhat inconveniencing people arranging flowers. The Secretary was asked to take up these various points in a letter.


The Secretary reported that she had discussed various aspects of the matter with Mr Secretary. He said that the group concerned with the bridge had readily agreed to move nearer the window, thus no longer obstructing use of our desk or the work of flower arrangers. The House Committee now propose to install a shelf in the alcove for the coffee machine under which the TV will be kept.

July 22nd 1994 – Committee Meeting

It was noted that the new computer and printer have been purchased (total cost £1100.00) and that the Ladies Section contributed £500. An appreciative letter from the Club Secretary was read out. However, there are difficulties with the new printer. At the moment the old printer is being used but the Committee saw this as most unsatisfactory and, in view of our vested interest and urgent need for the matter to be put right it was considered that we should seek direct access to the supplier.

Lady Captain reported on the Cheshire Bronze Division Open Day held on our course on July 8th. She had received an appreciative letter from the Lady Captain of Cheshire thanking us for our warm welcome and the provision of efficient organisation and staffing of the course.

It was noted that Cheshire had originally booked the day with the men and the ladies had been given no voice as to whether, or not, to accept the booking. Members of the Committee deplored this fact seeing it as further evidence that, as matters stand at present, the Ladies Section has little or no status in regard to the policy of Hale Golf Club. It was pointed out that it had been the Ladies Section which was required to do the work and we were gratified that the Lady Captain of Cheshire had recognised this fact.

The above discussion led fairly naturally into a broader discussion of the ladies’ position opposite to the Men’s Section. Lady Captain and Lady Secretary were already planning occasional informal discussions with Mr Captain and Mr Secretary at which they wanted to raise a number of issues. Subjects appropriate for discussion were: the management of the computer, the initial arrangements for the Cheshire Day, selection by the men of several ladies to serve on the Committee relating to the Clubhouse improvement. In connection with the latter the Ladies Committee has received no official notification. There was a strong feeling that this represented a highly unsatisfactory state of affairs.

After some discussion a sub-committee (STROL) consisting of Lady Secretary, Margaret Gilman, Jennifer Bradley and Pat Shenton was appointed to look into the whole question of the standing of the Ladies Section in the Golf Club and, in particular, to consider our objectives relating to change.


STROL – Status and Role of the Ladies Section. The Secretary said that STROL is well aware of the sensitivity of the whole matter. Not all our ladies will necessarily be in full agreement with the fundamental objective either for reasons of tradition or from a financial point of view. Therefore STROL must proceed carefully in the knowledge of all this.

At the first meeting a list of short-term objectives had been agreed. These are listed in the Minutes of the STROL meeting. Members of Committee were given the opportunity to read the list which was generally approved.

STROL members have, so far, defined the short term as being from now and for the next five years. The long term is thought likely to be of the order of 5-15 years.

On October 3rd Lady Captain and Lady Secretary had met Mr Captain and Mr Secretary for an informal discussion. The topics discussed were:

1. Communication. Accepted in principle.

2. Ladies play on Saturdays: the need to avoid clashing with men’s competitions. For the moment the only solution seemed to be that ladies must examine the board carefully and make very certain that the competition of the day has finished.

3. Some House matters which, it was stressed, are in hand.

4. The computer. Our stake in it and some current difficulties with the printer.

5. The choice by the men of ladies to serve on the fund-raising committee (for Development of the Clubhouse). Ladies Section Committee had known nothing about this and very much deplored the way this had been done.

6. Some criticism by ourselves of the Pro’s shop.

Overall this meeting had been much appreciated by the ladies and another would be arranged at a later date.

Pat Shenton is most anxious to see some improvements in competitive golf for our ladies. After much discussion it was agreed that the Charlton should be seeded and there should be a maximum stroke allowance of 30 or the Charlton to be a knock out competition for 26 and lower handicappers with the Bech for 27 and higher. These suggestions would be put to the AGM along with a ‘no change’ option.


Lady Secretary referred to the necessity to observe the rule relating to Saturday play for ladies, ie that ladies’ play must not start before 3.30 or on match days until the last group of competitors has left the 10th green – whichever is the later.

The Secretary outlined the progress to date with the computer, explaining that our section had recently contributed £500 towards the purchase of a new computer and printer. After some teething troubles these are now working well and their use this year has facilitated the running of

the Eclectic Competition. Our dependence on the computer has caused us to appoint a Computer manager – Pat Shenton – as one of the Officers of our Committee. The Secretary asked members who possess some degree of computer expertise to volunteer to stand in on Thursdays when our regular computer boffins are on holiday.

Pat Shenton proposed that in 1995 the Charlton is seeded and, additionally, a maximum stroke allowance of 30 is introduced. There followed a discussion in which sharply divided opinions were expressed. Some members deplored the disadvantage which would result in for our 30+ handicap players – asking whether they would bother to enter at all – and some supporting the proposed change. A vote was taken and the Proposition was defeated by a very large majority.

Officers for 1995

Lady Captain – Mrs J BradleyLady Secretary – Mrs DJ GuestHandicap Secretary – Dr M GilmanTreasurer – Mrs J Barton

December 2nd 1994 – Committee Meeting

Lady Captain and Lady Secretary had been concerned that, following the AGM, some of our members who may feel critical of various arrangements and forward plans made by the Committee make no attempt to air their view informally to Committee Members. Hence, it seemed, at the AGM, that some items could easily have been dealt with by discussion – possibly outside the meeting. The Committee approved a suggestion that Lady Captain would appeal at tea on Thursday for members with ideas, suggestions or complaints to discuss them informally with Committee Members so that such matters can be dealt with expeditiously.


The Secretary confirmed that meetings are taking place re Club Development and hoped that ladies would bring their points of view to her on aspects relating to ‘development’. She wished to ensure, if at all possible, that at the proposed Member’s Meeting, currently fixed for March, ladies’ views would be both heard and registered in some numerical form. The Secretary had been told by a member of Council that ‘of course, the ladies won’t have a vote’. The reason given was that the Ladies are not ‘members’.

A discussion followed. The distinction between ‘members’ and ‘lady members’ was accepted as representing the status quo – though it is widely regarded by at least some of the ladies as being highly unsatisfactory.

Margaret Gilman reported that, in a recent issue of Women and Golf she had read that, when an organisation has a licence for the sale of alcoholic drinks it may be illegal for that organisation to exclude a significant proportion of its members from its voting procedures. Lyn Lever undertook to look into the validity of this assertion.

May 25th 1995 - Committee Meeting

Lady Captain reported that she and the Secretary had recently discussed with Mr Captain and Mr Secretary the voting system which would be adopted at the forthcoming meeting to discuss progress on the Clubhouse Development Scheme. It was already agreed that a vote must be taken which would include all present, ie the gentlemen and the ladies. However, the Club’s existing rules are

such that the decision as to whether or not to go ahead with a particular development scheme, must be made by ‘Members’ only, ie Lady Members do not have this right. The Ladies Committee regard this as totally unsatisfactory and a source of considerable discontent. But clearly nothing can be done to amend matters before this particular decision needs to be taken. After discussion, it was decided:

a) The STROL (Status and Role of the Ladies Section) Committee must now meet to develop a strategy for progress in respect of a real need to change the Club’s voting rights. It was noted that, apropos this, there is a statement in ‘Women and Golf’ April 1995 to the effect that the licencing laws apparently do not allow private Clubs which exclude significant numbers of their members from voting to be licensed.

b) The men would be informed that under the status quo the ladies would (reluctantly) consider it to be preferable for the Men’s vote to taken on the occasion of the Club Meeting immediately the ladies had left.

It seemed that there had been reference in Council to the application, for Lady membership, of Mrs Nelstrop and Mrs Harrison whose husbands have recently been appointed to Council. Lady Captain had explained to Mr Captain that these ladies had applied very recently, that two other names preceded them on the list (by several months). Mr Captain assured Lady Captain that our arrangements re the admission of new members are perfectly satisfactory and that no special privilege needs to be given to these ladies. Mrs Lever said that in the past priority had always been given to the wives of Council Members. However, this did not seem to be the general view.

After a prolonged period of difficulty with the computer, John Hughes had taken it back to the suppliers who would appear to have corrected the fault. This represents considerable progress! However, Margaret Gilman is still unhappy about the lack of back up available to our section. She will take this up again with Bernard Elliot.

July 21st 1995 - Committee Meeting

Increased hours for ladies’ play (including Sunday mornings and 1 extra hour from 2.30 to 3.30 on Saturdays) have been announced in the last few days. It was noted that the increased time on Saturdays will only apply on non-competition days. Nevertheless, these changes are most welcome.

Since the last Committee Meeting the STROL Committee has held its second meeting. The principal objective at this meeting was to formulate an appropriate response to a number of changes which are taking place in women’s status in Golf Clubs.

After discussion the STROL Committee had agreed to produce a comprehensive document exploring routes towards greater equality of opportunity for men and women members of Golf Clubs. In the first place STROL will produce a summary of the current scene, leading to recommendations for movement within our club. However, before progress can be made, STROL (which is a sub-committee of the Ladies Committee) will submit its report and recommendations to the Ladies Committee for ratification/amendment. It is hoped to circulate the report to our Committee members very shortly.

August 3rd 1995 - Extraordinary Committee Meeting

Document on the Status and Role of Ladies in Hale Golf Club. A first draft of this document had been circulated to the Committee prior to the meeting and comments are now needed.

The matter was thrown open to the meeting for discussion with the following outcome: Everyone present supported the document in principle. Everyone feels that the relationship with the men’s section is good and should not be disrupted or spoiled in any way. Everyone is conscious of a move generally towards more equality and opportunity for women. Enthusiasms for this movement were felt at different levels by those present but no-one wished to see that change reversed in respect of Hale Golf Club. The Secretary then took note of several fairly minor amendments which members requested, she agreed to build them into the document. After this had been done Lady Captain and the Secretary would hand the document to Mr Captain and Mr Secretary.

Lady Captain had been asked to serve on the Furnishing Committee and had accepted. However she was well aware of the need to take advice from other lady members and had therefore proposed, with the Committee’s agreement, to set up a small working party to discuss furnishing schemes. The Committee were happy to endorse her suggestion. Anne Veitch, Cynthia Sunderland, and Sue Holden were announced as members of this party.


Margaret Gilman reported that following yet more difficulties in accessing the computer, the hardware had been sent back to the suppliers who, after a series of investigations, concluded that the recurrent fault was a function of the siting of the instrument at Hale. Finally some faulty connections had been identified and, at last, the machine seems to be working well. However, Margaret is still pressing for our own back-up system – as required by the LGU – and Bernard Elliot, who has been in contact with Club Systems has not yet been able to solve the problem. Work is continuing.

Lady Captain explained that, following the Extraordinary Committee Meeting of 3rd August, she and Lady Secretary met Mr Captain and Mr Secretary to discuss our document (The Role and Status of Women in Hale Golf Club) in some detail. In the discussion Mr Captain and Mr Secretary accepted the general thrust of the document but re the recommendation that the document, as it stood, should be presented to Council, Mr Captain felt that such a discussion would not be useful at the moment. Rather he would prefer that we went at once to Recommendation 2 viz the formation of a Working Party (consisting of men and women). He would expedite this at the next Council Meeting. Lady Captain and Lady Secretary had found this suggestion acceptable. Thus, at this point, the matter had been left in the hands of the men.

Lady Secretary had sent a letter to all Committee Members that the representation of ladies on the Working Party should be as on the STROL viz the Lady Captain and Secretary, Margaret Gilman and Pat Shenton.

Lady Captain said she understands that Council now needs a little more time to ratify its arrangements. We shall therefore have to await developments.

STROL document

The Role and Status of women in Hale Golf Club – a case for change – August 1995

INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND

As Hale Golf Club approaches its Centenary (in 2003) it is hardly surprising that its history and development so far have recently received a good deal of scrutiny from the membership. Equally this forthcoming event has prompted questions about the future of the Club such as ‘where do we go from here?’, ‘What will our club be like 100 years hence?’ and, related to the previous questions, ‘what should we be doing about it now?’ Another question of equal importance to many members is ‘How do we preserve our heritage so that the good things about Hale will not be destroyed?’

In 1993 a start was made in planning the Centenary by sending a questionnaire to all members asking for views and opinions on a wide range of aspects of Club life. This questionnaire was the brain child of the men; the ladies took no part in its organisation though lady members were asked to complete the same forms as the men and thus, in respect of the questions asked, the ladies’ opinions were obtained. With hindsight it is arguable that this questionnaire started a process which could, eventually, lead to the establishment of a Golf Club in which there could be equal opportunity for men and women. It is emphasised however, that we do not believe that this particular objective was at the time in the minds of the members who designed the questionnaire!

Outside our Golf Club – in the world of golf in particular and of sport in general – the 1990’s are developing as a decade in which both men and women are more prepared than formerly to try and remove some of the inequalities.

Thus it is with these processes of change in mind that, in 1995, the Ladies’ Committee publishes this document. It contains a summary of the current situation regarding the role of men and women in the Club and it also looks outwards to the world of Women’s Golf in Britain (as we see it). It concludes with a number of recommendations which we wish to put to Council for urgent and serious consideration.

THE STATUS OF WOMEN IN ENGLISH GOLF CLUBS

When our investigation into this matter was started, it seemed likely that we would uncover a fairly patchy scene along with changing attitudes to women’s roles in a least some of the Golf Clubs. Our enquiries and reading soon showed that we had been right in that assessment. Many women golfers with whom we spoke deplored the fact that at present their Clubs give only limited responsibility and status to their lady members – sometimes designated ‘Lady Members’ which means that women ‘enjoy’ a different status from the men. (It is only fair to add that in such cases the women pay lower subscriptions than the men). However, as well as meeting some of these rather dispirited women we also met some who were pleased to report that changes (for the better in their view) as actually taking place, sometimes at a more rapid rate than they had expected.

The case of Northwood – a Golf Club in the London area – is worth a special mention here in respect of a BBC TV production (screened in 1994) revealing the status of lady members of this Club. The

broadcast produced waves which reverberated widely in the country. Sometime later the ladies of the Club were granted voting rights.

In local Golf Clubs we found a variety of situations exists. It may not be helpful (or fair to members of other Clubs who have spoken to us unofficially but frankly) to mention any of these Clubs here by name. Some have not moved at all and some are still totally male-dominated in matters of policy and management. Others now have a shared AGM (men and women together) and play a lot of mixed golf. Some have awarded voting rights and Committee membership to their women members while still playing largely ‘segregated’ golf, ie holding men’s and women’s competitions days (as we do at Hale). Some have been stirred into action as a direct consequence of recent changes in the Licencing Laws.

THE POSITION OF LADY MEMBERS OF HALE GOLF CLUB

Hale Golf Club, now approaching its Centenary, was founded in 1903 as a Golf Club for men. Slowly over the years ladies have been admitted (as ‘Lady Members’) to play during restricted hours. The slow progress to give ladies increased facilities need not be catalogued here. It is, of course recorded in the minutes of the governing body, viz Council. Now, in 1995, ladies may play at any time of the day during Monday to Friday, also at any time on Sunday (the latter constitutes a very recent concession) provided, of course, that they avoid Men’s Competitions, visiting societies and various special events. Ladies’ Day is Thursday during the principal hours of which the course is not available to men. On Saturdays ladies may not play before 2.30 or, on Competition Days, before 3.30 or after the competitors have left the 10th green, whichever is the later.

The current members’ handbook shows 179 members (men) and 110 Lady Playing members. Lady Members’’ subscriptions stand at approx 2/3rds of the men’s subscriptions. This ratio is maintained in the Entrance Fees charged.

Our ladies have no representatives on Council and thus no executive power. However, we have our own AGM and the men have theirs. Our golf is strictly conducted under LGU rules and of course we run a variety of Club competitions. Each year there are a few mixed events and a Mixed Foursomes Knock-out Competition runs throughout the summer.

It should be emphasised that the relationships between the men and the women in the Club are excellent in personal terms. But it does seem that a change of attitudes towards the development of a more equal society is in the air. Some of the likely causes of this are discussed below.

The Approach of the Club Centenary

As part of the Centenary celebrations an improved Clubhouse is being planned and, inevitably, some ad hoc Committees were set up to look into various aspects of the matter. At the outset of the planning three ladies were invited to join the Fund Raising Committee (fund raising being an almost inevitable component of any rebuilding scheme!) The men also allocated one place on the non-executive arm of the Development Committee to a Lady member. The Ladies’ Committee appointed their Secretary to serve. Thus, in the heart of the re-building scheme ladies had a place.

It was of course clear at the outset of the project that the ladies would be welcome subscribers – and a number of us have contributed. However before any real progress could be made a preferred scheme had to be adopted formally and, as the ladies have no executive power under the existing constitution, the Men’s section pointed out that the ladies could take no part in the decision-making process. A compromise, with which we had no option to concur, was that there would be a meeting of Members and Lady Members in which a show of hands would act as an expression of opinion.

This would be immediately followed by a Special General Meeting of the Members (men), the ladies having left the meeting room.

This state of affairs was (very reluctantly) accepted by the ladies, there was no alternative. We sensed a certain amount of embarrassment and even unhappiness amongst some of our male colleagues who, like ourselves, had to accept that this was the only route to take under the present constitution. It should be added here that the Captain was most gracious about the whole thing and he did his best to show this by offering the ladies an apology at the outset of the meeting.

In all we sensed a growing feeling in the Club that some change may be appropriate.

The current Licencing Laws

Recently the rules regarding the issue of a licence to Clubs selling intoxicating liquor have changed and the situation now is that a licence will not be granted to Clubs in which ‘a significant number of members in proportion to the total membership’ are admitted ‘otherwise than as ordinary members’. At Hale about 38% of the playing members are ladies and, as we have already pointed out, they are designated as Lady Members without voting rights or executive power. One would suppose that 38% represents a ‘significant number in proportion to the total membership’. We understand, however, that our Club’s licence has recently been renewed for a further period of 3 years. Whether the matter of the ‘Lady Membership’ has been discussed with the Licencing authority we do not know. But in any case we expect that the matter will have to be considered when the next application takes place.

We understand that other similarly placed Golf Clubs have struggled to reconcile their traditional attitudes to their women members with their fondness for the nineteenth hole! One local Club has, we understand, been granted a 3 month period in which to make up its mind.

The Lady Captain and the Lady Secretary have already put the ladies’ dissatisfaction to Mr Captain and Mr Secretary and it is hoped that, in the fullness of time (whenever that might be) there will be a decision to opt for the bar, along with membership status for the ladies. The existence of this particular dilemma seems also to point in the direction of change.

Ladies on the Management Committees

Two years ago the men decided to include a Lady Member on the House Committee. Currently this position is filled each year by the Lady Captain Elect. The other management committees are staffed entirely by men.

HANDLING CHANGE: SOME SUGGESTIONS

The preceding section may suggest that, at the worst, all that the ladies have to do to achieve greater equality in Hale Golf Club (or at least to acquire voting rights) is to sit around and wait for something to happen. Attitudes, as we have indicated, seem to be changing and, additionally, a considerable push in the direction of equality is in process of being provided by the changes in the Licencing Laws. Would that it were quite as simple as this. But it is not!

One complicating factor here is likely to be the attitude (not yet tested) of some of our ladies who, when they start to consider the likely consequences of the introduction of a more equal society in the Club, may feel that the game is scarcely worth the candle. One can imagine some measure of protest based on remarks such as, ‘we are quite comfortable as we are and we certainly don’t wish to pay more money for so-called privileges that we don’t particularly want’. Worse still, some of our older ladies may feel that increased subscriptions would be beyond their means and that, in

consequence, their Club membership could not be continued. This document would be lacking in sincerity and veracity if this point were not made.

One way round the difficulty could be to explore possibilities of a two-tier membership (both for men and women). The instant reaction from the men could well be that this has been considered before – and turned down. But clearly, a new situation is developing and new arguments leading to solutions must be examined. Surely there is a case for this possibility to be investigated.

We would also stress that we need to take the temperature of the water by consulting our ladies whom we, their Committee, represent. In this area of consultation two possibilities come to mind. One is to hold an Extraordinary General Meeting at which several alternatives could be put to the ladies and they would then be invited to express their opinions. The other obvious alternative would be a referendum.

However, prior to the adoption of either of these investigative procedures it is clearly desirable to set up a more comprehensive consultation procedure to which the men and the women will have an opportunity to contribute and in which, it is hoped, there would be enthusiastic, well informed and understanding participation of both sides.

We emphasise that relationships at Hale are good. Perhaps therefore this is a useful point to stress as we close this particular review of the current situation at Hale.

There follow a number of Recommendations which we would like Council to consider as a matter of urgency with the objective of providing a constructive way forward.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. That Council be asked to study and respond to this document.2. That Council be asked to set up a Working Party, consisting of men and women (the women

to be appointed by the Ladies’ Committee), to consider changes leading to more equality of status and responsibility for men and women members that exists at present.

3. That our membership (men and women) be consulted as to their views on ‘equality’ in the Golf Club.

4. That a forward plan, taking account of all the above (and the various matters put forward in this document) be established as / when appropriate.

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