Chairman’s Message
Dear Member
As we now try to acclimatise to Tier 4 restrictions in London, and soon to be around the rest of the UK I fear, the Club’s management team adapts and communicates so quickly to ensure Members can use as much of the Club’s facilities either in person or online. I think we all owe Marc and his team of excellent staff a debt of gratitude on the wonderful job they have done for us this year.
Here is the text of a message that I sent to all staff earlier today:
As we near Christmas, I would like to thank all of you on behalf of the Board and all Members for the outstanding job you have done in this unique year. There has been a real feel of community. You have been cheerful and have created a great sense of safety for us all. I hope you will have the chance over Christmas to enjoy it despite the new restrictions, have a restful time, recharge your batteries and enter the New Year in health and happiness with your families and friends.
In addition, the Club has a staff fund which is budgeted to be paid from Members’ subscriptions each year. All Members contribute indirectly to this fund so we have no tipping or a gratuities fund/tronc. That way staff receive a payment that is taxable and distributed equally in recognition of their hard work. I am confident that all Members will wish to know that the Board asked for the payment to be increased for this Christmas in recognition of the special circumstances and how staff have coped.
Some operational points to note-
Outdoor Pool
We have clarification from Swim England on the Tier 4 operating restrictions in the Outdoor Pool now allowing up to 6 Members to swim in a lane from Boxing Day. This is great news as in tandem we have extended our opening hours from 6am to 9pm on weekdays to maximise the number of swimmers. Click here for the new timetable and operational guidance
Click here for Club Christmas Opening Hours
Tennis Courts
With Tier 4 restrictions looking like they are here to stay for a while the Tennis Committee has decided to take down the Airhall freeing up courts 12-14 for outdoor use. The Board has approved that a new Airhall with internal chandelier LED lighting can be installed for October 2021.
Christmas Day and Boxing Day
Traditionally the Club would be closed for these two days but we have decided to open on Boxing Day (9am to 4pm) so that Members can exercise and escape the house as safely as possible. To ensure that staff have a complete break to be with their families we are closing the Club on Christmas Day.
Finally can I wish all fellow Members a very Happy Christmas and thank all of you for your patience in this very challenging year. Christmas is often a time for reflection and I think we can all look back and thank each other for the patience and fortitude we have showed over the last ten months as the Club has fought hard to keep open and maintain its wonderful sense of camaraderie and friendship. We have adapted well with more challenges to face next year I am certain. Let’s hope 2021 is a much better and happier year for all.
Best wishes,
Alan Jenkins