Club Mirror August 2017

clubmirror August 2017

AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Premier League 2017-18 Let battle commence

HQ • N E W S • R A C I NG C L U B • L E G A L • AT T H E B A R

Contents

club mirror AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

AUGUST 2017

AWARDS, EVENTS AND CALLS TO ACTION

25

15 Club Awards 2017 Celebrity host John Inverdale looks forward to meeting you.

16 Come and join us The Club Awards and Gala Dinner is a celebration not to be missed. Here’s why.

18 Doncaster racecourse Fancy a flutter? Guests at the 2017 Club Awards can join us for a free days racing.

21 Gala Dinner and free race day tickets Book early to avoid disappointment!

PREMIER LEAGUE SPECIAL NEWS, VIEWS, CLUB LIFE AND LEGISLATION

48

25 Let battle commence!

06 News News, views and latest legislation.

Clubs around the country are gearing up to join in the excitement of the Premier League.

08 News special

26 The clubs

BT Sport and Sky Sports announce their respective price increase and look at the sporting activities coming up.

Welcome to the elite band of Top 20 clubs, all with their eye on the Number 1 spot.

28 The fixtures 09 Half Year Report It’s been a busy year so far at HQ and we hope you’re able to take advantage of what we’re up to.

The story so far for 2017...

12 What’s new?

Latest launches and new brews to consider stocking at the bar.

45 On tour with Sean Kelly Sean Kelly, presenter of popular reality TV show Storage Hunters, takes time out to chat to Club Mirror.

45

The ultimate guide to match fixtures, listed by club.

HQ BUILDING THE BUSINESS

ASK THE EXPERTS

32 Sporting fixtures

48 Industry interview – Toro

Want to cut club spending while increasing efficiencies? Well now you can. Read on...

Insights into buying and maintaining the best possible machines for your club grounds.

36 HQ

50 Industry interview – HEINEKEN UK

Are you ready for the £1 changeover on October 15? Plus: making the most of sports screenings and club security.

Simon Gray, Heineken Smart Dispense Commercial Manager, takes time out to share HEINEKEN UK’s vision for clubs.

38 HQ Building the Business

52 Personnel challenges

Want to cut club spending while increasing efficiencies? Well now you can. Read on...

Look after your staff to look after your members.

55 Building the wine offering 40 HQ Legal Eagle

A grape way to grow sales.

David Lucas fields your club questions.

57 Due diligence 42 HQ – join the Racing Club Fancy discounted race day tickets for your members? Read on...

Defense of litigation claims aided by real-time solution.

58 Web advice

42

Slow running websites, content and conundrums.

59 App design Why apps are becoming one of the hottest properties in 2017.

54 It’s classified!

Showcasing club-supporting suppliers.

CLUB MIRROR 3

REFRESHING

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UNDERSTANDING YOU, FIRST...

Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority

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LEADER

Contributors

Everything to play for With the Premier League now is in its 26th Season, this football favourite is expected to have up to 4.7 billion followers watching the matches as they’re broadcast. There’ll be serious competition for this business, so rising to the top as the viewing venue of choice means shouting even louder about the club’s appeal. Fixtures publicised well in advance, big screens advertised, well-priced meal-deals, strategically placed posters in the club, competitions, promotions – all help to spread the word that the club is the place to be for all-things Premier League.

Mike Braidwood

Chris Colverd

Sean Ferris

Karen Foreman

David Foster

Larry Hardcastle

Jonathan Hardy

David Lucas

Leigh Ann Ogilvie

Justin O’Regan

Victoria Romero-Trigo

Jill Slingsby

On the subject of spreading the word, here at HQ we thought we should share some of what we’ve been up to so far this year – just in case you’re missing out!

This month we’ve launched Club Football, our largest launch of the year to date. Upcoming fixture lists, interesting trivia for those behind the bar plus business-building advice all make this a fascinating read, while embedded videos make this a top-flight digital experience as well. The new title joins sports title Club Cricket, Club Rugby, Clubhouse Europe and Sports Club Management (more launches to be announced soon; turn to page 9 for more details).

Services for the club sector are always top of our agenda, so last month we launched our Racing Club, where clubs can book discounted tickets for member days out. This joins the new advisory service, HQ Building the Business, which aims to help you find even better rates and prices than you’re currently paying.

We’re also exceptionally busy planning ahead for Club Mirror’s 50th birthday next year, with a string of events and activities across the year and across the country. Is your club 50 next year? Or do you have records of events were being held back in 1968? Perhaps you have members who’ll be celebrating 50 years with the club in 2018? Then do let us know and join in the celebrations.

Finally, following the celebration theme, don’t forget to book your places at this year’s Club Awards and Gala Dinner. Every attendee will receive a free day’s racing on the following day – on us. Turn to pages 15-21 for details.

Caroline Scoular Editor, Club Mirror

Editor Caroline Scoular Design David Foster Editorial Chris Colverd Events Jill Slingsby, Karen Foreman Display Advertising Margaret Doherty Sales and Marketing Manager Leigh-Ann Ogilvie Circulation Jon Hardy Accounts Andrew Soles Publishing Director Sean Ferris

Club Mirror is published by Alchemy Contract Publishing Ltd, Gainsborough House, 59/60 Thames Street, Windsor SW4 1TX. Tel: 01753 272022. Fax: 01753 272 021 Email: caroline@clubmirror.com; sean@clubmirror.com; leigh-ann@alchemymedia.co.uk; info@clubmirror.com ACP Gainsborough House 59/60 Thames Street Windsor Berkshire SL4 1TX UK t. +44 (0)1753 272022 f. +44 (0)1753 272021 e.info@alchemycontractpublishing.co.uk www.alchemycontractpublishing.co.uk The views expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the publisher. Club Mirror does not verify the claims made by advertisers regarding their products.

CLUB MIRROR 5

CLUB NEWS

ClubFootballlaunches Club Football is the latest launch from Club Mirror’s publisher ACP. “We launched the title to coincide with the start of the Premier League,” said Publisher and Managing Director Sean Ferris. “The title is rammed with club news, which suppliers are

doing what, industry insights and a Behind the Bar section designed to ensure the best – and most fun! – experience for club guests.“ Club Football joins ACP’s portfolio of club titles and events which includes Club Cricket, Club Rugby, Clubhouse Europe, Sports Club

Management, The Club Report, Club Mirror, the Club Awards, the Clubhouse Awards and the pan-industry Hospitality Social Media Awards.

For more information email info@clubmirror.com or to view the issue online visit www.clubfootball.org.uk

CLUBFOOTBALL www.clubfootball.org.uk

ISSUE 1

Premier League Fixtures Preview of all the action Could you be our Football Club of the Year 2017?

Use this QR code to enter.

From the sidelines – the players to watch Groundsmanship – keeping pitches perfect Top revenue generating ideas for football clubs Hospitality Social Media Awards – enter now

Calls for Government measures England’s best hospitality counties revealed to reduce alcohol consumption The Foundation for Liver Research has urged the Government to implement measures which will reduce the incidents of alcohol-related deaths and illnesses following the publication of a new report, Financial case for action on liver disease.

The report estimates that the total cost to the NHS of alcohol-related illness and deaths will hit £17bn between 2017 and 2022.

Measures called for include introducing minimum unit pricing (MUP) and reinstitution of the alcohol duty escalator.

According to the report a 50p MUP in England would result in 1,150 fewer alcoholrelated deaths and savings of £325.7m in healthcare costs within five years.

Professor Roger Williams, Director of the Foundation for Liver Research and Chairman of the Lancet Commission on Liver Disease, said: “Liver disease is a public health crisis that has been steadily unfolding before our eyes for a number of years now and the Government will have to take robust public health action if its main causes (alcohol misuse, obesity and viral

hepatitis) are to be controlled.”

Responding to the report, the Alcohol Information Partnership (AIP) noted that in 2014 the anti-alcohol campaigner and liver specialist Professor Ian Gilmore said: “If we could get back to where we were in the UK, say, 30 to 40 years ago in our per capita consumption we would see a huge benefit in health.” This level of consumption has already been achieved, according to the AIP, ‘yet anti-alcohol campaigners are now calling for ever more regulations’.

“According to Government data, alcohol consumption per capita across the UK has been falling year on year for over a decade and is now at a similar level to 40 years ago,” said Dave Roberts, AIP Director General. “The most recent Government data again shows that the vast majority of people drink within the Chief Medical Officers guidelines, young adults are drinking less year on year, underage drinking is in decline and alcohol-related crime and disorder is falling.”

Calling all Man City fans Theatre company Contact is bringing the experiences of City football fans to the stage, and they need your help.

Contact is looking to recruit Man City fans of all ages to be part of a unique theatre performance called ‘We’re Not Really Here: A Football Opera’ – although there’s no singing required other than the chants and songs associated with the club.

“What we need are people happy to do what you do week in, week out, on the terraces, at the games: the songs, the banter, the chants. The audience gets to experience what only a footballer normally 6 CLUB MIRROR

sees and hears: you lot, going for it,” says Contact’s Kyle Walker.

No acting experience is needed. Rehearsal times will be arranged according to to participants’ daytime or evening availability.

All rehearsals and performances will take place at Contact, Oxford Road, Manchester.

•Rehearsals: Saturday 9 SeptemberWednesday 20 September •Performances: Wednesday 20 SeptemberSaturday 23 September (4 days, 5 performances) • For more information contact KyleWalker@contactmcr.com

New data from the AA and Visit England has been combined to reveal the most highly rated destinations in England across 47 regions with Berkshire storming ahead of the field.

Over 80% is regarded as outstanding, over 70% excellent and over 60% very good, according to the AA. The rankings are: 1 Berkshire - 84% 2 Surrey and Staffordshire - both 73% 3 Bedfordshire - 72% 4 Northamptonshire - 70%

5 Nottinghamshire and Shropshire - both 69% 6 Buckinghamshire and Cheshire - both 68% 7 West Sussex - 66% 8 County Durham and North Yorkshire both 66% 9 Herefordshire - 64% 10 Greater London and Hertfordshire - both 63% The findings were based on restaurant, hotel, B&B and campsite rankings.

Drinkaware unveils five-year strategy Alcohol education charity Drinkaware’s new five year strategy reflects key changes in UK alcohol consumption. The declining total alcohol sales and growing levels of abstinence amongst the young sees the charity shift its focus from underage to older drinkers.

Campaigns focusing on older drinkers are already underway with the ‘Have a Little Less, Feel a Lot Better' campaign

targeting men aged 45-65 who drink frequently, primarily at home.

The ‘You wouldn't sober, You shouldn't drunk' campaign and the Drinkaware Crews, now operational in 13 local areas and set to expand between now and 2022, are targeting people who are more likely to be binge drinking and the charity will continue supporting people who are using alcohol to cope with stress and anxiety.

2017 Club Awards update As we go to press Club Awards judges are being kept busy with the flood of entries to this year’s Club Awards.

“The ingenuity, initiative and commitment of clubs around the country is as impressive as ever,” said Head of Judges and Club Mirror Editor Caroline Scoular.

“They continue to be a hub for their communities and we very much look forward to congratulating entrants, finalists and the entire club community at this year’s Awards.”

The Club Awards and Gala Dinner takes place on 30 November at Doncaster Racecourse, hosted by sports presenter John Inverdale.

The action doesn’t stop there though.

“We’ll keep the celebrations going the following day, inviting all of our guests to a free day of racing on us,” said Caroline.

• For more details on the event and how to book turn to pages 15-21.

Businesses urged to get ready for £1 coin changeover The Royal Mint and HM Treasury are encouraging businesses to ensure that they are prepared for the new 12-sided one pound coin. The old £1 coin leaves

circulation on October 15.

Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, Andrew Jones MP, said: “We are now reaching the point where there are more new 12-sided pound coins in circulation than round pounds.

The clock is ticking. We are urging businesses who are yet to do so, to update their systems and inform their customers ahead of the October 15 deadline.”

• For more information turn to this month’s HQ, pages 36-37.

All for charity

New Joint Chair for APPG

The AGM of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Non-Profit Making Members’ Clubs took place on Tuesday, June 27 at the Houses of Parliament.

During the AGM, Lord Smith of Hindhead CBE, the Chief Executive of the Association of Conservative Clubs (ACC), was elected as the new Joint Chair of the Group to serve alongside existing Joint Chair StephenHepburn MP, the Labour MP for Jarrow.

Ian Mearns MP, the Labour MP for Gateshead and Andrew Griffiths MP, the Conservative MP for Burton, were confirmed as the two Vice-Chairs of the Group. Sir David Crausby MP, the Labour MP for Bolton North East will continue as Secretary of the Group.

Suppor ted

NEWS IN BRIEF CMAE President’s Cup The Club Managers Association of Europe (CMAE) is inviting all members to participate in the CMAE President’s Cup. Played in a Fourball Team Format at the prestigious Royal Porthcawl Golf Club on Thursday, 19 October 2017, the day will be scored by Golf Genius and feature their Ryder Cup format which will identify the CMAE's winning team.

“Competition is bound to be fierce - bragging rights the prize - but most of all it will be a fun day of golf on one of the UK's best golf courses and an opportunity to discuss organising great golf events with Golf Genius,” said President Marc Newey CCM. • Details at www.cmaeurope.org Bidfood launches festive range Bidfood has unveiled its 2017 Christmas range, comprising 120 new products in an overall range of 750.

Traditional items with a twist include the turkey ‘cushion’ with pork & orange stuffing), individual turkey & duck ‘cushions’ with Morrello cherry stuffing and ‘Christmas on a stick’ skewers with pork chipolatas, turkey cubes and stuffing balls. .

The range includes over 40 glutenfree products including Northcoast Seafoods’ smoked salmon & dill naked fishcakes and Everyday Favourites baked winter cheesecake.

by

PROSTATE CANCER UK By 2030, prostate cancer is set to become the most common cancer overall in the UK. Time to act, says Prostate Cancer UK. Prostate cancer is currently the most common cancer in men, accounting for 25% of all cancer diagnoses; 44,000 men will be diagnosed over the next 12 months.

To date Prostate Cancer UK has invested over £37m into ground breaking research. There are four priority areas being focused on: better diagnosis, better treatment, better prevention and better support.

The charity works to create a tool to

assess every man’s individual risk of prostate cancer and aims to increase the proportion of men whose aggressive prostate cancer is detected before it spreads outside the prostate. “We want to only diagnose prostate cancers that need to be treated, and leave nonaggressive prostate cancers alone. To do this we will commit £2 million to crack the problem of inaccurate diagnosis, which is blamed for many of the UK’s prostate cancer deaths.”

•To sign up and fundraise visit prostatecanceruk.org/menunitedarms or visit them at the Great British Beer Festival, London Olympia, August 8-12 (Stand ST04).

Also: a range of alcohol-infused cheesecakes, popping peach bellini, gin fizz & elderflower, Kara snowball sparkle cakes (pictured), individual truffle torte with a gold shimmering profiterole and Premium Selection individual gold bars.

• www.bidfood.co.uk CLUB MIRROR 7

NEWS SPECIAL

Broadcasters announce price increases BT Sport and Sky Sports announce their respective price increase. Here the broadcasters explain the reasoning behind the new pricing and highlight the sporting activities coming up.

BT Sport – club subscription rises by 3.5% BT Sport has announced that its club subscription prices will increase by 3.5% from September 1 with the broadcaster continuing to use the 2010 business rates to calculate the amount paid by venues.

New for the 17/18 season, BT Sport will be giving clubs the chance to tailor promotional posters to appeal to their members’ key interests by selecting specific fixture posters across a range of sports including football, rugby and boxing.

The broadcaster will also be making social media assets available for clubs to download and use on their Twitter and Facebook pages in order to publicise the live sport they have on offer.

Bruce Cuthbert, Director commercial customers, BT Sport, said: “As we enter our fifth season we are incredibly proud to be offering customers our strongest line-up of exclusively live sport ever.

“And what a season it will be.

Together with the Premier League and the FA Cup, we are the exclusive home of all the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League, and with five English teams in the UEFA Champions League for the first time, including the return of previous European winners Chelsea,

Manchester United and Liverpool, the season will be our strongest yet.

“In addition to our exclusive domestic and European football, we also have Aviva Premiership Rugby plus for the first time Ashes cricket this Christmas and all new BT Sport Fight Nights featuring world-class boxing.

“We think BT Sport continues to offer our customers incredible value for money.

"We will also be launching a free tailored point-of-sale service, giving clubs the opportunity to choose from a number of different poster packs or alternatively they can opt to compile their own by selecting specific fixture posters from a range of sports that work best for them and their members.

“Together with a comprehensive range of quality social media assets to help promote fixtures and sports through social media, our customers will always get the support they need to get the most from their subscription.”

BT Sport’s Premier League coverage starts on Saturday, August 12 with Brighton & Hove Albion v Manchester City, while the season's traditional curtain raiser – the Community Shield between Arsenal and Chelsea at Wembley Stadium – will take place on Sunday, August 6 at 2pm.

Sky Sports – club subscription capped at 5%

Sky has announced that it will be increasing its subscription costs to clubs from August 1 but has guaranteed that no club will see an increase of more than 5%.

The company has committed to helping clubs by using the lowest Rateable Value (RV) from either 2010 or 2017.

It means that the price of many clubs’ subscriptions will drop while those which are facing an increase will be restricted to 5% or less.

“We know licensed premises are facing cost uncertainties and we want to help them manage that as well as ensure their return on investment,” said David Rey, Managing Director of Sky Business.

“The Government’s changes in RVs from 2010 to 2017 were no small part of this and we want to put customers first so that they can depend on their investment in Sky. “As we invest more and sports rights costs to Sky rise too, we must also review our pricing like all businesses do. But we absorb what we can.

This year, no club’s bill will rise by more than 5%, and many bills will go down as we commit to using the

For details of the Premiership League fixtures turn to page 25.

8 CLUB MIRROR

lower of the two RVs when calculating bill for the next 12 months.”

Sky Sports will be showing 126 live Premier League games during the 2017/18 season as well as 127 live games from the Football League, in addition to live rugby, Formula 1, golf and cricket, including the upcoming four-Test series between England and South Africa.

The new Premier League season kicks off on the weekend of August 12/13 and the Football League season gets underway on Friday, August 4, as Sunderland host Derby County at the Stadium of Light, live on Sky. In total, Sky will be showing three fixtures from the Championship on the opening weekend with Aston Villa v Hull City and Bolton Wanderers v Leeds United also being broadcast.

Rey added: “Clubs can look forward to kicking off the new football season with some fantastic matches to entertain their members. Over the course of the 2017/18 season our customers can look forward to showing 126 exclusively live Premier League matches, 127 Sky Bet EFL games, SPFL Premiership action and much more.”

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2017 – THE STORY SO FAR

Half year report – 2017 At the beginning of the year in our annual Club Report we outlined what we as club publishers and club events organisers will be up to. Well we’ve been busy – and we hope you’re able to take advantage of what we’re up to on your behalf! The story so far for 2017...

T

his year we’ve been exceptionally busy with new club launches and new events in advance of celebrating Club Mirror’s 50th birthday. Why write this report? Because our titles, Awards and events are all geared up to providing all of the support to clubs that we possibly can, helping our thriving industry continue to grow.

CLUBCRICKET

CLUBFOOTBALL

The ICC Champions Trophy

Premier League Fixtures

AT THE HEART OF THE CRICKET COMMUNITY

ISSUE 1

www.clubfootball.org.uk

ISSUE 1

AT THE HEART OF THE RUGBY COMMUNITY

ISSUE 8

SPORTSCLUB MANAGEMENT ISSUE 2

Mission impossible?

The British & Irish Lions head to New Zealand

50th celebrations We’re busy planning events for the whole of next year across the country, joined by club-supporting suppliers, by readers and by club associations.

Events will embrace the many different club sectors and importantly the majority of these activities will be hosted in clubs.

Exclusive interview with England’s Stuart Broad Better Buying – HQ Building the Business Attracting and keeping junior members Hospitality Social Media Awards - enter now

Could you be our Football Club of the Year 2017?

Use this QR code to enter.

Club Awards host annouced John Inverdale looks forward to meeting you

Preview of all the action

Insights, interviews and the ones to watch Could you be our Cricket Club of the Year 2017?

Summer Tour Preview: England to Argentina Sporting fixtures – who’s showing what and when

Entries now open for ‘Rugby Club of the Year’

Groundsmanship – keeping pitches perfect Top revenue generating ideas for football clubs

www.sports4bars.com

The top new products to boost your club’s bottom line

From the sidelines – the players to watch

Hospitality Social Media Awards – enter now

We talk to Sky Sports commentators Stuart Barnes and Miles Harrison

Could you be our Manager of the Year 2017?

Enter the Club Awards to find out.

Better business – free service for sports clubs Personnel matters – motivating your staff Education – gaining with training Social Media Awards – calling all sports clubs

clubmirror AT T HE HE A R T O F T HE C O M M U N I T Y

A ug us t 2 017

Planned activities Sportsman lunches, golf days, two conferences, three new sets of Awards, comedy nights, a boxing night, club racing days, wine tastings, cookery demonstrations and celebrity get togethers are all on the drawing board. We also have a National Campaign designed to turn up the volume on the club sector, helping to highlight the value of clubs up and down the country. Underwraps for now, more details will be revealed later in the year.

Premier League 2017-18 New launches We’ve launched a number of new magazines targeting specific sports clubs and – importantly for you the readers – all of the new magazines are free to you.

Club Football is the latest and largest launch of the year to date. In it you’ll find expert advice on everything from club management to the launch of a new advisory service.

With football as its heart, the magazine includes upcoming fixture lists, interesting trivia for those behind the bar, a glimpse behind the scenes of televising a game and the latest on UEFA Woman’s Euro 2017. There are Awards to get involved with and, as if that isn’t enough, you can take a look at the exclusive Club Brands Report to see which brands are remaining at the top of the club tree.

And you’ll be able to watch video clips which will be embedded throughout the issue. Catch all the action at www.clubfootball.org.uk Club Cricket has also been launched this year with Club Tennis and Club Bowls soon to follow, sitting alongside existing sports titles Club Rugby, Clubhouse Europe and Sports Club Management. A Formula 1 title will join the portfolio, designed to run alongside club screenings for enthusiastic members.

Let battle commence

CLUBHOUSE

HQ • N E W S • R A C ING C L UB • LE G A L • AT T H E B A R

CLUB REPORT

pan-industry Hospitality Social Media Awards this year. From the back of these we are busy planning webinars, training sessions and expert advice on building the business through the power of social media.

Watch this space for the latest launches – there are more to come!

HQ Building the Business Another major activity we’ve been accelerating this year is the new HQ Building the Business advisory service, free to clubs. This is a quick way to ensure you’re getting the best possible purchasing power for your club with no fees, no contracts and no obligations, just the opportunity to save your club money and improve efficiencies – ideal for time-strapped committees and clubs who feel they could be getting better value. We’re very proud to have launched this for clubs, so take a look at page 38 for details.

Let’s get digital In the digital world, 2017 sees our Sports4Bars.com going from strength to strength. This is the definitive online guide to all the live sport screenings available to all types of licensed premises in the UK. On the pan-sector theme, clubs and licensed premises of all types can also get involved with the

Racing Club launch Last month we launched our Racing Club, offering all readers the opportunity to enjoy a day at the races with as many members as they care to take, all at specially negotiated rates. This is a completely free service (of course) and we expect it to be enjoyed by thousands of club members across the land.

Can’t picture it all? Then turn the page...

Sound business advice for club professionals

2017

Positive perspectives for 2017 Club Mirror’s annual guide with expert advice for the year ahead

EUROPE

HQ Building the Business – Page 18

ISSUE 11

CMAE Sports Day – join the fun CMAE European Conference – register now!

Club Awards 2017– calling all clubs HQ Building the Business – improving the bottom line

CLUB MIRROR 9

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2017 – THE STORY SO FAR

Clubs? We’ve got you covered It’s been a busy year to date, publishing all of the magazines you’ll see on these pages. Next year?

Club Mirror celebrates its 50th birthday. Since launching in 1968 it has championed the Club Sector and continues to do so, with sister titles Club Cricket, Club Football, Club Rugby, Clubhouse Europe, the Club Report and Sports Club Management joining in the torch-bearing. We’re also proud to contract publish Club Journal – 105 years young – on behalf of the CIU. Clubs, we salute you!

clubmirror

clubmirror

Licensing Act 2003

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clubmirror

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Time to shine

Election special

Join us at the races!

Call for entries

Plus – Awards deadline looms

Last call for entries

H Q B U IL D ING TH E B U S INES S • L EG A L EA G L E • AT THE B AR • NE W S

HQ BUI LDI NG THE BUS I NE S S • LE G AL E A GLE • AT THE B AR • NE W S

HQ BUI LDI NG THE BUS I NE S S • NE W S • AT T H E B A R • C OC K TA IL S

Ma y 2017

AT T HE HE ART O F T HE CO MMUNITY

Select Committee announces findings

AT TH E H EART OF TH E C OM M UN I T Y

June 2017

AT T HE HEAR T OF T HE C OM M UN I T Y

AT T HE HEA R T O F T H E C O M M U NI T Y

July 2017

Working together – Club Association Special Club Awards – now open for entries H Q • A SK THE EXPER T S • BT SPO R T SPECIA L • L EG A L EA G L E

CLUB REPORT Sound business advice for club professionals

clubmirror August 2017

AT T H E H E A R T O F T H E C O M M U N I T Y

2017

Premier League 2017-18 Let battle commence

Positive perspectives for 2017 Club Mirror’s annual guide with expert advice for the year ahead

Racing Club

HQ • NE W S • R A CI NG CL UB • L EG A L • AT T H E B A R

CIU Events

DRANSFIELDS CIU GREYHOUNDS RACENIGHT, SHEFFIELD

Dransfields CIU Charity Raceday Saturday, November 18, 2017

10 CLUB MIRROR

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

CLUBCRICKET AT THE HEART OF THE CRICKET COMMUNITY

ISSUE 1

CLUBFOOTBALL www.clubfootball.org.uk

ISSUE 1

AT THE HEART OF THE RUGBY COMMUNITY

ISSUE 7

AT THE HEART OF THE RUGBY COMMUNITY

ISSUE 8

Mission impossible?

The British & Irish Lions head to New Zealand

The ICC Champions Trophy

Premier League Fixtures

Insights, interviews and the ones to watch

Preview of all the action

Could you be our Cricket Club of the Year 2017?

Exclusive interview with England’s Stuart Broad Better Buying – HQ Building the Business

CLUBHOUSE Attracting and keeping junior members

Hospitality Social Media Awards - enter now

ISSUE 9

EUROPE

Could you be our Football Club of the Year 2017?

The 2017 Six Nations Full TV schedule and ‘players to watch’

From the sidelines – the players to watch Groundsmanship – keeping pitches perfect

CLUBHOUSE Use this QR code to enter.

Top revenue generating ideas for football clubs Hospitality Social Media Awards – enter now

ISSUE 11

EUROPE

Sporting fixtures – who’s showing what and when

Could you be our Rugby Club of the Year 2017?

Expert tips on running a beer festival at your club Why social media is so crucial to your members

Summer Tour Preview: England to Argentina Sporting fixtures – who’s showing what and when

Entries now open for ‘Rugby Club of the Year’

www.sports4bars.com

The top new products to boost your club’s bottom line

SPORTSCLUB MANAGEMENT

We talk to Sky Sports commentators Stuart Barnes and Miles Harrison

www.sports4bars.com

ISSUE 2

Club Awards host annouced John Inverdale looks forward to meeting you Sign up for the CMAE’s latest career-building courses – Page 7

50th MDP – celebrating a CMAE educational milestone 2017 resolutions – top 10 tips CMAE-style Tribal Tuesday – a new take on traditional driving ranges

Club Journal January 2017

HQ Building the Business – Page 18

The magazine for all CIU members

CMAE European Conference – register now!

Club Awards 2017– calling all clubs HQ Building the Business – improving the bottom line

INSIDE...

Club Journal April 2017

CIU Racing Club. . . . . . . 9 Club of the Month . . . 10 HQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Several Union clubs were honoured at the 2016 Club Mirror Awards, held at The Principal Hotel in Manchester at the end of November.

Joint winners in the CIU-sponsored ‘Traditional Club of the Year’ category were Pitts Hill Victory WMC in Stoke on Trent and Old Hendon Ex-Servicemen’s Club from London.

Pictured above are members of Pitts Hill Victory WMC being presented with their Award on stage by Union President George Dawson CMD (far left) and Awards host, Sally Nugent (far right).

For more information on the other winners, see page 6.

With Blackpool 2017 now just two months away, Union members are being urged to attend what will be a busy weekend of clubrelated activities.

The centrepiece of the weekend is the Annual Meeting on Saturday, April 8 at the Norbreck Castle Hotel.

Daily Mirror Political Correspondent Paul Routledge has been confirmed as the keynote speaker and is sure to give delegates a fascinating insight into his many years covering the corridors of power at Westminster.

Delegates also have the opportunity to attend the 126th CIU Beer & Trades Exhibition on the afternoon of Friday, April 7 at the Norbreck Castle Hotel.

This event allows clubs and suppliers to swap notes on the latest legislation affecting clubs, as well as learn about the latest products and service available, all in an informal, friendly atmosphere.

Among the suppliers who have already confirmed their attendance for the 2017 Keynote speaker Paul Routledge

Club Journal The magazine for all CIU members

Union President urges clubs to take advantage of new rates relief rules The 154th Annual Meeting of the CIU took place on Saturday, April 8 in Blackpool with 415 delegates attending the event held in the Ballroom of the Norbreck Castle Hotel.

In his address, Union President George Dawson CMD urged clubs to take advantage of the new legislation concerning rate relief for small businesses.

He said: “We now have a greatly increased threshold for small business rate relief which will be a great benefit to most of our clubs in England.

“If you have a rateable value of below £12,000, then you will be paying no rates, and if you have a rateable value below £15,000, you will get a percentage of relief one percent for every £30.

“Some Councils have given this automatically, some require a declaration form and some will sort it out over the phone.

“If you haven’t received your small business rate relief, please enquire at your local rates office because if you don’t ask, you won’t get it!”

Mr Dawson also argued the case for maintaining the Union’s Head Office at its current location in central London and that a move under current financial circumstances would be ‘a dereliction of our duty to safeguard the assets of the Union.’

He added: “The NEC has been talking to the firm who took over the 999-year lease for the ground floor. For your information, the ground floor was leased for 999 years in the 1999/2000 period for just under £1m.

“I’m sure the NEC at the time did it for the right reasons. As a result of this, we have a floating freehold, and this greatly affects the value of the property.

“The original leaseholder did not give us an opportunity to buy the lease back, but sold it on to another property firm in London for £4.5m.

“We asked the new firm to give us an idea of what options were available to us should

show are: Ace Furniture, Aon, BT Sport, CAMRA, Heineken, Dransfields, Smart Energy Projects and Rijo42.

Alongside the specialist business advice, there will be free refreshments courtesy of Heineken and special prizes on offer throughout the afternoon.

Rounding off the weekend, immediately following the conclusion of the Annual Meeting, will be the Dransfields CIU Quiz Final, where the winners and runners-up from each of the Regional Heats will compete for the prestigious trophy and cash prize. All attendees are welcome to join in on a 'just-for-fun' basis with sport prizes being given out.

The Union has negotiated a special delegate rate with the Norbreck Castle Hotel for CIU members and have 20 double sea view rooms, 20 double standard rooms, 20 twin sea view rooms, 20 twin standard rooms and 20 single rooms on hold.

The rate is £42.50 per person per night with dinner and B&B, based on two sharing a twin/double or £35 per person per night B&B, based on two sharing a twin/double.

There is a £15 per night addition in the case of sole occupancy and the deal is for minimum of two nights.

If you would like to take advantage of this offer, please book direct with the Norbreck Castle Hotel on 01253 352341, quoting the code: ‘WMCI 17’.

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See page 5 for the final scores and more photos from the day

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Editor’s Letter. . . . . . . . . 2

Club News. . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Club News. . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Club News. . . . . . . . . . . . 3

CIU Racing Club. . . . . . . 9

CIU Racing Club. . . . . . . 9

CIU Racing Club. . . . . . . 9

Club of the Month. . . 10

Club of the Month. . . 10

Club of the Month. . . 10

HQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

HQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

HQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Crossword. . . . . . . . . . . 21

Nick Byram, Bar Manager of Dartford WMC

Club of the Month: Dartford WMC Dartford Working Men’s Club in Kent has won national recognition from the Campaign For Real Ale (CAMRA) for its cask ale offering.

The club has reached the last four of CAMRA’s ‘Club of the Year’ competition, the only CIU club named in the final shortlist for the award.

“Real Ale is at the centre of everything we do at the club and it’s very pleasing to gain recognition from CAMRA,” said Dartford WMC Bar Manager Nick Byram.

“It’s a great testament to the passion and hard work that our staff have when it comes to providing a perfect pint of cask beer.”

For the full article, see page 10.

Editor’s Letter. . . . . . . . . 2

Club Outings. . . . . . . . . 18

The Union’s Annual Meeting takes place on Saturday, April 8

CIU members are being urged to ensure their club is represented at the Union’s Annual Meeting which takes place in Blackpool next month.

The Annual Meeting is on Saturday, April 8 at the Norbreck Castle Hotel and the 26th CIU Beer & Trades Exhibition is happening the day before at the same venue.

“Conference Weekend is the most important time of the year for the Union and a great opportunity for all our clubs to come together to discuss and debate the key issues which matter to us,” said Union President George Dawson CMD. “As usual we have organised a full weekend of club-related activities with the Beer & Trades Show on Friday and the Dransfields CIU National Quiz Final on Saturday afternoon straight after the AGM. “I would urge all clubs to make sure they’re represented in Blackpool during Conference Weekend in order to give their members a say on the future of the Union.”

The Beer & Trades Show has proven a very popular draw in the past two years and attendance figures are expected to increase once again.

The event takes place for the third successive year at the Norbreck Castle Hotel’s huge Norcalympia venue.

Among the suppliers attending in 2017 are: Ace Furniture, Aon, Avensure, BOC, BT

Sport, CAMRA, Heineken, Dransfields, Red Tooth and Smart Energy.

The trade show gives club members a chance to get specialist business advice in an informal setting, as well as to enjoy free refreshments and fun activities.

Rounding off the weekend, immediately following the Annual Meeting, will be the Dransfields CIU National Quiz Final, where the winners and runners-up from each of the Regional Heats (completed in January and February) will compete for the prestigious trophy and £500 first prize.

As revealed last month, Daily Mirror Political Correspondent Paul Routledge will be the keynote speaker at the Annual Meeting.

He said: “It’s an honour and a privilege to be invited to the CIU gathering in Blackpool, where I’ve been many times as a Political Correspondent for different national newspapers.

“I’m a member of two clubs – the Empire and the Brookside in South Elmsall – and expect to have joined Skipton Working Men’s Club by the time I arrive, so I am genuinely ‘one of you.’

“It’s a bit daunting to be ‘the turn’ in front of such a critical audience but I imagine the Chairman will call ‘order’ while I do my bit.

I’m really looking forward to joining you in Blackpool on April 8.”

Crossword. . . . . . . . . . . 21

Club of the Month: Trades Club, Doncaster The Trades Club, Doncaster is this month’s Club of the Month.

In 2008, the club moved into a brand-new, purpose-built premises within the Frenchgate shopping centre and has not looked back since with over 1,800 members enjoying the spectacular 20,000 square foot premises.

As well as a large Lounge, the club has a Games Room, Concert Room and three bars, plus a number of Conference and meeting rooms which can be hired out.

Entertainment is also very important to the club with regular live music taking place throughout the month.

For the full article, see page 10.

Club Outings. . . . . . . . . 18 The Union’s Conference Weekend will take place in Blackpool this month with the Annual Meeting scheduled for the morning of Saturday, April 8 at the Norbreck Castle Hotel and the 26th CIU Beer & Trades Exhibition is being held the day before at the same venue.

“Conference Weekend is without a doubt the most important date in the Union calendar,” said Union President George Dawson CMD. “This is the one time in the year when all our clubs can gather together in one place to debate the key issues facing our members and celebrate the fact that our clubs continue to have a really positive influence in the communities which they serve.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting Union members from all over the country and hope that as many of them as possible attend the Beer & Trades Exhibition on Friday afternoon and the Dransfields CIU National Quiz Final on Saturday afternoon straight after the AGM. “We’ve had a fantastic turnout for the Exhibition since relaunching it two years ago and atttendees can be certain that they will receive the best possible advice on boosting business in their club from a number of major suppliers.”

Among the suppliers attending in 2017 are: Ace Furniture, Aon, Avensure, BOC, BT

www.wmciu.org.uk

Sport, CAMRA, Dransfields, Heineken, Red Tooth and Smart Energy.

The Trades Exhibition gives club members a chance to receive specialist business advice in an informal setting, as well as to enjoy free refreshments and fun activities, including several bingo sessions run by Preferred Supplier Dransfields, who will also be showcasing their latest gaming and entertainment machines.

Rounding off the weekend, immediately following the Annual Meeting, will be the Dransfields CIU National Quiz Final, where the winners and runners-up from each of the Regional Heats (completed in January and February) will compete for the prestigious trophy and £500 first prize.

CIU members are invited to come along and take part in the Quiz Final in the ‘just for fun’ category where they can win a number of ‘spot’ prizes.

BLACKPOOL 2017 SCHEDULE Friday, April 7, 1pm 26th CIU Beer & Trades Exhibition Saturday, April 8, 10am Annual Meeting Saturday, April 8, 1pm Dransfields CIU National Quiz Final

Crossword. . . . . . . . . . . 21

CIU branches attend Heineken racing event Last month saw members of four local CIU branches attend an event at the John Smith’s Stadium in Huddersfield – home of Huddersfield Town FC and Rugby League side Huddersfield Giants – organised by the Union’s Preferred Supplier of Beer and Cider, Heineken UK. As well as enjoying the latest Heineken products at the bar, guests were treated to live televised racing from the Cheltenham Festival and were able to place bets with an on-site bookmaker.

Attendees also took part in a live ‘Q&A’ session with former Huddersfield Giants Rugby League star Eorl Crabtree, nephew of legendary wrestler Shirley ‘Big Daddy’ Crabtree.

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Club Journal

Club Journal August 2017

Could your club be the ‘CIU Traditional Club of the Year’ at prestigious national awards? Enter now...

Sport on TV. . . . . . . . . . 22

Newbottle WMC, Tyne and Wear, have won their second successive Dransfields CIU National Quiz title after winning the final held at the Norbreck Castle Hotel in Blackpool on the Saturday of Conference Weekend.

The winning quartet – Tony Gold, Clive Dunning, Mick Frith and Tony Walmsley – won the £500 top prize and a widescreen television.

In the runners-up spot was the ‘A’ team from the Clarence Sports & Social Club in Newport, South Wales, while Sydney Street WMC, Accrington, came third in a highly competitive event.

The Norbreck Castle Hotel in Blackpool will host the Union’s Annual Meeting in April

July 2017

Crossword. . . . . . . . . . . 21

Newbottle WMC win CIU Quiz title

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Editor’s Letter. . . . . . . . . 2

The magazine for all CIU members

Club News. . . . . . . . . . . . 3

CIU Sport. . . . . . . . . . . . 23

The magazine for all CIU members

CIU members set for a warm welcome in Blackpool

Club Journal

Club Outings. . . . . . . . . 18

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June 2017

Editor’s Letter. . . . . . . . . 2

Union President George Dawson CMD

we want to change the venue of Head Office.

“They came up with three options: swapping the building within London for another building; sale of the building with leaseback, or a sale of £2.5m and 12 months for us to vacate the property.

“We also asked what the value of the freehold would have been had we not had an extended lease on the ground floor, and a conservative estimate was £7.5m.

“It is quite clear that if the current NEC took any of these options, it would be a dereliction of our duty to safeguard the assets of the Union.

“This situation is being monitored and, if there is a beneficial change in circumstances, then it will be looked at again.”

The Annual Meeting also saw a Motion to transfer a member’s Union Associate Card to their new club when their former club closes defeated by 203 votes against to 173 votes for.

For the full report of the 2017 Annual Meeting see pages 8-15

The magazine for all CIU members

Members urged to make their voice heard at AGM

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www.wmciu.org.uk

May 2017

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Club Outings. . . . . . . . . 18

Club Outings. . . . . . . . . 18

CIU clubs honoured at Club Mirror Awards

Social Media Awards – calling all sports clubs

Club Journal

Norbreck Castle Hotel, Blackpool

Crossword . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Education – gaining with training

March 2017

The magazine for all CIU members

Club News . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

originally intended, but generally it is working well.”

Concluding his appearance in front of the Committee, Mr Dawson assured the assembled peers that CIU clubs, along with those clubs affiliated to other major associations, remain highly relevant in the context of the modern on-trade.

He said: “We have had a considerable amount of difficulty, but we are still a significant part of the on-trade.

“There is £21 billion in the on-trade in beer. CIU probably accounts for five per cent of that by itself and the Association of Conservative Clubs (ACC) has 900 clubs.

“There are also British Legion clubs. We are still a significant player in the on-trade.

The on-trade has shrunk, but it is not all depression and everybody closing down.

“We are looking at different avenues to keep our clubs open. Do not think that we are all going to close down tomorrow.”

The Select Committee, which is chaired by Baroness McIntosh of Pickering and includes ACC Chief Executive and CORCA Chairman Lord Smith of Hindhead CBE, has been tasked with reviewing the effectiveness of the Licencing Act 2003.

The Committee has taken evidence from a cross section of interested parties, including representatives of clubs, pubs, the police, the off-trade, legal experts and think tanks.

Personnel matters – motivating your staff

Club Journal

Editor’s Letter . . . . . . . . . 2

Union President George Dawson CMD

Enter the Club Awards to find out.

Better business – free service for sports clubs

February 2017

Planning for Blackpool 2017 reaches final stages

Union President gives evidence to House of Lords Select Committee on the Licensing Act Union President George Dawson CMD has told the House of Lords Select Committee examining the Licensing Act 2003 that he believes that there are too many inconsistencies in the way that different local authorities approach licensing.

Mr Dawson, who appeared before the Committee on Tuesday, November 22, said: “The only problem that the Union has with different authorities is inconsistency.

Different authorities interpret the law in different ways.

“We have a difficulty with advising our clubs in one area about something that we feel is not part of the Licensing Act, and trying to educate the licensing officer in that respect.

“In other areas, we have no difficulty whatsoever. If you have no trouble in your club, they just leave you alone to get on with it. The inconsistency is the worst part of the Act.” But Mr Dawson did concede that the Licensing Act was “generally” working well.

He said: “There has been a bit of row-back on the flexibility that was originally intended – the 24-hour opening – especially with the late night levies, etc.

“When we applied for our licences in 2005, all eventualities were covered by having licences until two o’clock. Most of my clubs claim for eight in the morning until two in the morning, every day of the week.

“They do not use it all the time, but they do it to have flexibility over periods of celebration – 100 years of the club, etc.

“A lot of clubs – it is only in some areas – now have to do a variation, because six authorities decided to do the late night levy.

“They get charged a late night levy if the Club Premises Certificate says ‘until two o’clock’, even though they may not use it all the time, and they may use it on only two occasions in the whole year.

“Then they have to apply for a Temporary Event Notice (TEN). The flexibility seems to be going from the idea of what was

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Could you be our Manager of the Year 2017?

CMAE Sports Day – join the fun

The 2016 joint winners of the ‘CIU Traditional Club of the Year’ award, Pitts Hill Victory Club, receive their trophy from Union President George Dawson CMD (far left) and ceremony host, BBC broadcaster Sally Nugent (far right)

Entries are now open in the ‘CIU Traditional Club of the Year’ category for the 2017 Club Mirror Awards.

The annual Awards are now in their 26th year and recognise the commitment of clubs, committees and individuals who ensure a healthy future for their clubs.

There are several categories in the Awards covering the full spectrum of clubland, with the CIU-sponsored ‘Traditional Club of the Year’ category one of the most hotly contested.

Last year’s worthy joint winners of the Award were Pitts Hill Victory Club in Stokeon-Trent and Old Hendon Ex-Servicemen’s Club in London, The Awards Judging Panel recognised that these two Union clubs are positively thriving thanks to their forward-looking committees,

active memberships and excellent ties with their local communities.

“Winning the Award was a great testament to all the members who have helped to turn things around at the club,” said Pitts Hill Victory Club Committee Member Dan Capewell.

“Attending the Awards in Manchester and going up on stage to receive the trophy was a fantastic experience.”

If you would like to follow in the illustrious footsteps of the 2016 winners and believe that your club deserves national recognition as a beacon of best practice in the sector, then get your entry in before the June 30 deadline.

If you would like your club put forward for the 2017 Club Mirror Awards, please contact justin@clubjournal.co.uk

Date set for Dransfields CIU Racenight in Sheffield Sheffield’s Owlerton Stadium will be hosting the Dransfields CIU Greyhound Racenight on Tuesday, September 19.

This annual event is a great opportunity to witness some top-class dog racing on one of the country’s best tracks while enjoying a good night out with club colleagues.

We’ll be publishing further details of the night and how to get tickets in future issues of Club Journal.

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Sky Sports restricts price increase to 5% for clubs

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The magazine for all CIU members

BT Sport raises its club subscription price by 3.5% Manchester United play Real Madrid on Tuesday, August 8, live on BT Sport

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Editor’s Letter. . . . . . . . . 2

Editor’s Letter. . . . . . . . . 2

Club News. . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Club News. . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Club News. . . . . . . . . . . . 3

CIU Racing Club. . . . . . . 9

CIU Racing Club. . . . . . . 9

CIU Racing Club. . . . . . . 9

Club of the Month. . . 10

Club of the Month. . . 10

Club of the Month. . . 10

HQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

HQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

HQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Club Outings. . . . . . . . . 18 Crossword. . . . . . . . . . . 21

Timeline for Election of National Executive 2017 The timeline for the 2017 Election of the National Executive of the CIU will be as follows: Tuesday, September 5 Issue Letter and Nomination Form Thursday, October 5 Deadline for forms to be received at Head Office Tuesday, December 5 Deadline for Ballot Papers to be received at Head Office Friday, December 8 Ballot Count at Head Office Friday, December 8 Notification to Candidates and NEC Friday, December 8 Official Release to Branch Secretaries, Club Journal and Head Office

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The magazine for all CIU members

The new Premier

Club Outings. . . . . . . . . 18

League season begins on Saturday, August 12

Sky has announced that it will be increasing its subscription costs to clubs from August 1 but has guaranteed that no club will see an increase of more than 5%.

The company has committed to helping clubs by using the lowest Rateable Value (RV) from either 2010 or 2017.

It means that the price of many clubs’ subscriptions will drop while those which are facing an increase will be restricted to 5% or less.

“We know licensed premises are facing cost uncertainties and we want to help them manage that as well as ensure their return on investment,” said David Rey, Managing Director of Sky Business.

“The Government’s changes in RVs from 2010 to 2017 were no small part of this and we want to put customers first so that they can depend on their investment in Sky. “As we invest more and sports rights costs to Sky rise too, we must also review our pricing like all businesses do. But we absorb what we can. This year, no club’s bill will rise by more than 5%, and many bills will go down as we commit to using the lower of the two RVs when calculating bill for the next 12 months.”

Sky Sports will be showing 126 live Premier League games during the 2017/18 season as well as 127 live games from the Football League, in addition to live rugby,

Formula 1, golf and cricket, including the upcoming four-Test series between England and South Africa.

The new Premier League season kicks off on the weekend of August 12/13 and will see reigning champions Chelsea beginning their title defence with a home tie against Burnley.

Runners-up Tottenham, meanwhile, start their campaign with an away trip to St James’ Park to take on newly promoted Newcastle United.

The Premier League season is set to finish on May 13, 2018 - a week earlier than last season - with the World Cup finals in Russia starting on June 14, 2018.

The Football League season gets underway on Friday, August 4, as Sunderland host Derby County at the Stadium of Light, live on Sky. In total, Sky will be showing three fixtures from the Championship on the opening weekend with Aston Villa v Hull City and Bolton Wanderers v Leeds United also being broadcast.

Rey added: “Clubs can look forward to kicking off the new football season with some fantastic matches to entertain their members. Over the course of the 2017/18 season our customers can look forward to showing 126 exclusively live Premier League matches, 127 Sky Bet EFL games, SPFL Premiership action and much more.”

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Crossword. . . . . . . . . . . 21

Club of the Month: Bradwell WMC Bradwell & District Working Men’s Club in Staffordshire is our ‘Club of the Month’ for July.

Among the club’s recent achievements was the completion of a £40,000 refurbishment of its upstairs Function Room to add to the club’s already impressive facilities.

The club has also started a new football team which has generated huge interest in the local community and helped the club to boost its membership, as well as making more young people aware of the club and what it has to offer.

Bradwell WMC continues to offer a full array of activities and live entertainment for its members. For the full article, see page 10.

Editor’s Letter. . . . . . . . . 2

Club Outings. . . . . . . . . 18 BT Sport has announced that its club subscription prices will increase by 3.5% from September 1 with the broadcaster continuing to use the 2010 business rates to calculate the amount paid by venues.

New for the 17/18 season, BT Sport will be giving clubs the chance to tailor promotional posters to appeal to their members’ key interests by selecting specific fixture posters across a range of sports including football, rugby and boxing.

The broadcaster will also be making social media assets available for clubs to download and use on their Twitter and Facebook pages in order to publicise the live sport they have on offer.

Bruce Cuthbert, Director commercial customers, BT Sport, said: “As we enter our fifth season we are incredibly proud to be offering customers our strongest line-up of exclusively live sport ever.

“And what a season it will be. Together with the Premier League and the FA Cup, we are the exclusive home of all the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League, and with five English teams in the UEFA Champions League for the first time, including the return of previous European winners Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool, the season will be our strongest yet.

“In addition to our exclusive domestic and

European football, we also have Aviva Premiership Rugby plus for the first time Ashes cricket this Christmas and all new BT Sport Fight Nights featuring world-class boxing.

“We think BT Sport continues to offer our customers incredible value for money.

"We will also be launching a free tailored point-of-sale service, giving clubs the opportunity to choose from a number of different poster packs or alternatively they can opt to compile their own by selecting specific fixture posters from a range of sports that work best for them and their members.

“Together with a comprehensive range of quality social media assets to help promote fixtures and sports through social media, our customers will always get the support they need to get the most from their subscription.”

BT Sport’s Premier League coverage starts on Saturday, August 12 with Brighton & Hove Albion v Manchester City, while the season's traditional curtain raiser – the Community Shield between Arsenal and Chelsea at Wembley Stadium – will take place on Sunday, August 6 at 2pm.

Another early season highlight for BT Sport is the UEFA Super Cup clash on Tuesday, August 8 which sees Europa League winners Manchester United taking on Champions League holders Real Madrid.

Crossword. . . . . . . . . . . 21

Club of the Month: Fleetwood WMC Fleetwood Working Men’s Club in Lancashire is our ‘Club of the Month’ for August.

During the past 18 months the club has fought its way back from a devastating break-in which saw thieves ram a car through the front doors of the building and ransack the premises, costing the club a total of £47,000.

But with the full support of their members, the club’s Committee has embarked on a number of fundraising efforts to ensure that the club is back on a firm financial footing and looking to the future with confidence.

For the full article, see page 10.

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CLUB MIRROR 11

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AT THE BAR

So what’s new?

Latest launches and new brews to consider stocking at the bar.

BLACK SHEEP LAUNCHES FIRST LAGER Yorkshire brewery Black Sheep has launched its frst ever lager, 54° North (4.5% ABV). The lager is brewed using German Pilsner Malt together with Magnum and Polaris hops and German aroma hop, Tettnang.

Offering a ‘balanced pint with a crisp bite and beautifully fresh aroma’, 54° North uses Black Sheep's own yeast strain and water from the Yorkshire Dales.The lager’s name was created in homage to the brewery's home of Masham, North Yorkshire, which sits on 54’ 13’ 24” N; 1’ 39’ 20” W longitude and latitude lines.

• www.blacksheepbrewery.com CRABBIE’S SUPPORT SCOTTISH RUGBY Crabbie’s alcoholic ginger beer has extended its agreement with Scottish Rugby for a further two years and is also to become the official sponsor of Scottish Rugby match officials.

Senior Marketing Controller for Crabbie’s, Michelle Chadwick, said: “We are very proud of our Scottish heritage and after a hugely successful season in Scottish Rugby it was an obvious development to grow our partnership together. Crabbie’s is committed to grassroots rugby and is looking forward to another great season ahead.”

• www.crabbiesgingerbeer.co.uk CARLSBERG UK ACQUIRES LONDON FIELDS BREWERY Carlsberg UK has acquired London Fields Brewery and will operate the business in a joint venture with Brooklyn Brewery from Brooklyn, New York.

London Fields Brewery will operate as an independent business and its craft beer range will become part of Carlsberg’s core portfolio in the UK as well as forming part of Carlsberg’s House of Beers range.

• www.carlsberguk.co.uk BUFFALO TRACE GOES ON TOUR Buffalo Trace Bourbon is taking its pop-up bar on a summer tour of four UK cities, starting at the Edinburgh Festival (Riverboat Casino @The Last Word Saloon, 6-10 August) followed by Nottingham (Last Chance Saloon, 14-19 August), Manchester

12 CLUB MIRROR

(Whiskey Jar, 21-26 August ) and London Cocktail Week (2-8 October).

Cocktail master classes and consumer sampling of more than 50 whiskeys will be undertaken and each city will host a Buffalo Bourbon Battle contest where two local bartenders compete to prove they are the best bourbon bar in the area.

Tim Giles, Buffalo Trace brand manager with HiSpirits, said: “Interest in Bourbon and American whiskey has never been stronger in the UK, with sales forecast to grow by another 26% over the next five years.”

• www.buffalotrace.co.uk/bbb WKD ANNOUNCES SUMMER CAMPAIGN WKD’s ‘WKD for the Now’ summer campaign aims to reach two million 18 to 24-year-old consumers every week throughout the summer until September via a mix of experiential and social media driven activity. The campaign is designed to engage young adult consumers at key touchpoints in their lifestyles, from festivals and shopping to a night in or getting ready for a night out on the town.

The brand also plans to widen the reach of the festivals with DJs hosting a series of two hour shows to be broadcast between 8pm and 10pm, the prime time slot when 18 to 24-year-olds are getting ready for an evening out according to the company.

WKD themed POS materials are available to selected outlets and a series of summer cocktails has been created – one for each WKD flavour – to enable all outlets to participate in WKD’s summer activity.

• www.shs-drinks.co.uk TUACA REDESIGN CELEBRATES ITALIAN HERITAGE Tuaca Liquore Italiano has been given a design makeover that celebrates its authenticity and heritage. The new bottle design aims to broaden the brand’s appeal and has a more classic shape, while the label proclaims Tuaca’s status as ‘Originale Italiano’.

The rebranding uses strong Italian cues and bold graphics to showcase Tuaca’s identity and roots.

Legend has it that the liquid was created for

Lorenzo the Magnificent, an Italian ruler in the 15th century during the Renaissance period. In the 1930s, brothers-in-law Gaetano Tuoni and Giorgio Canepa recreated it and named it Tuaca, a combination of their names. An importer from San Francisco brought the spirit to the USA in 1950 and in the 1990s Tuaca built a cult following in Brighton in the 1990s.

POS is available to reflect the updated branding and drive visibility.

• POS@hi-spirits.com • www.hi-spirits.com ‘PASSPORT TO PARADISE’ FROM CORONA AB InBev’s beer brand Corona is running a ‘Passport to Paradise’ campaign which aims to drive incremental sales by inspiring people to live the spirit of summer. It sees the return of the Corona Cubo sharing bucket, with units made available to on-trade customers.

Each promotional Cubo purchased will be served with a ‘luggage tag’, directing consumers to the campaign microsite where they can enter prize draws to win a holiday to exotic destinations.

Boost your Business toolkits are available to participating outlets along with merchandise giveaways. A competition for bar staff is also offered with prizes including a team night out on Corona, Corona cooler boxes and packs.

• www.coronaextra.co.uk/paradise AMSTEL ‘SNATCH’ FREE PINTS Dutch beer brand, Amstel, has joined forces with new mobile experience Snatch, to launch a nationwide* sampling campaign.

The augmented reality app will give away 10,000 free pints, to people who successfully ‘snatch’ and hold onto their prize for up to six hours.

The virtual treasure hunt app allows users aged 18 and over, to collect ‘parcels’ using augmented reality. Consumers then need to protect it from other players, who can snatch them, before the prize is revealed.

The free drink can then be redeemed from various Mitchells & Butlers’ outlets across the country including: All Bar One, Nicholson’s, Vintage Inns and Toby Carvery.

In addition to pints, Amstel will provide three holidays to Amsterdam and 20 bikes for players to win.

• www.heineken.co.uk/amstel

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£100 Material Damage Excess

£2,500 for cover in each gaming machine, up to £10,000 in total Total cover £10,000

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John Mckie 0345 004 0515 john.mckie@aon.co.uk

• Arrange market leading cover solutions • Get access to exclusive HR and Health & Safety Solutions for Clubs at discounted rates via our partnership with Citation

To arrange a quote contact:

Directors and Officers limit of indemnity £250,000

* New Aon clients only. Must not hold a current policy with Aon. Subject to qualifying criteria; No claims in the last 3 years; Satisfactory postcode check (such as but not limited to high risk flooding areas, theft and malicious damage); Insurance has not been cancelled or declined in the past; Premises are not unoccupied or unfurnished; Business description is a CIU Club, Other Social & Welfare Club, CISWO Club or Sports Club; Buildings are valued at no more than £1,000,000; Stock limit doesn’t exceed £50,000; and do not operate door staff, regular ticketed events or live entertainment more than twice a week. Evidence of competing terms must be obtained from an Insurer that meet Aon’s security rating requirements and cover must be of a comparable basis to the quotation arranged by Aon. This offer can be withdrawn at any time. Terms, conditions and exclusions may apply.

Maven Sports and Social Club Insurance arranged by Aon UK Limited and underwritten by Maven Underwriters which is a Managing General Agent operating under a delegated underwriting and claims handling authority on behalf of Aviva Insurance Limited and Allianz Insurance plc.

Maven Underwriters is a trading name of Aon UK Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Citation Limited is an approved Introducer Appointed Representative of Aon UK Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

FP.ENT.1784.MH

Monday – Friday 9am - 5pm

CLUB AWARDS 2017

Club Awards host looks forward to meeting you This year, back by popular demand, sports journalist and presenter John Inverdale joins us to host the Club Awards and Gala Dinner.

J

ohn Inverdale is a firm favourite in the Club Awards Hall of Fame, which he shares with fellow presenters Clare Balding, Hazel Irvine, Steve Rider, Chris Hollins and BBC Breakfast’s Sally Nugent.

He is renowned for his breadth of sports coverage, from the Ryder Cup to the Olympics, and his presentation skills are matched only by his sense of humour. He’s very much looking forward to sharing all the fun of the evening with Club Awards finalists and Gala Dinner guests.

• For details of how to book, turn to page 21.

CLUB MIRROR 15

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CLUB AWARDS 2017

Callingallclubs Join us in Doncaster Club Mirror invites you to join fellow clubs and club-supporting sponsors at the 2017 Club Awards and Gala Dinner. Plus: continue the celebrations on December 1 with a day at the races – on us.

Date: 30 November, 2017 Venue: Doncaster Racecourse Whether it’s meeting sponsoring suppliers, comparing notes with other clubs or trying out a new beer for the bar, the Club Mirror team invites you to join them for an action packed Evening on November 30, followed by a day’s racing on December 1.

6 - 7pm DRINKS RECEPTION Join us at the pre-Awards drinks reception courtesy of Marston’s and Heineken UK. Photo opportunities to date courtesy of BT Sport have included the FA Cup, the Challenge Cup and the Premier League Trophy.

16 CLUB MIRROR

STO Don P PR â&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fo ES r f r e Don e ra get the S r

7 - 9.30pm CLUB AWARDS & GALA DINNER The 26th Club Awards and Gala Dinner is being presented by sports personality John Inverdale (above, top). Back by popular demand, he is one of many celebrity hosts to join the Club Awards Hall of Fame.

on Dcaster cing at eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club ecem Racec Awa ber 1 ourse rds for Turn to p attende all e mor age 2 e de 1 fo s. tails r .

10pm - 12 midnight ENTERTAINMENT ZONE The evening continues after the Awards with festive entertainment in the Alpine Village!

Turn to page 21 and complete the Booking Form to secure your places.

CLUB MIRROR 17

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CLUB AWARDS VENUE

Doncaster Racecourse gets ready for Club Awards

The Club Awards take place this year on 30 November at a brand new venue, Doncaster Racecourse.

And there’s an added bonus – free racing on the following day.

A

ll Club Awards finalists and Gala Dinner guests are invited to join us for an exciting day’s racing on Friday, December 1.

“The first day’s racing in December will be the perfect way to keep the Club Awards celebrations going,” says Karen Foreman from the events team.

“The atmosphere will be electric and we’re delighted to have worked with the racecourse to secure free tickets for all of our Club Awards guests."

To book, turn to page 21.

18 CLUB MIRROR

HOW TO GET TO THE CLUB AWARDS DONCASTER RACECOURSE 30 November, 2017 By road Excellent links to the motorway network – M1(jnc 32), M18 (jncs 3/4), A1M (jnc 36) and the M62.

Free Club Awards parking • On November 30, all parking is free in car parks A and C. • On December 1 (race day) car park C is free; car park A costs £5 (can be bought on the day or booked in advance from the racecourse reception).

Drop-off and collection points Coaches and minibuses - car park C. Cars - car park A. (Drop-off and collection is prohibited on Leger Way.) By rail The Racecourse is two-and-a-half miles from Doncaster Train Station. There is step-free access, ramps from train, wheelchairs available.

Examples of rail travel times: Birmingham – 1h 47m (direct); Cardiff Central– 4h 11m (1 change); Leeds – 30m (direct); London (Kings Cross) – 1h 38m (direct); Manchester (direct) – 1h 15m

Doncaster is one of the oldest established centres for horse racing in Britain, with records of regular race meetings going back to the 16th century. In 1776 Colonel Anthony St. Leger founded a race in which five horses ran. Now, 241 years later, that race has become Doncaster’s prestigious four-day St. Leger Festival, the premier sporting occasion of the autumn calendar.

National Rail enquiries: 08457 484950; www.nationalrail.co.uk Travel from the station to the course • Buses – frequent. Approx 18-20 mind to course.

• Taxis – station taxi rank. Doncaster Station Taxis will accept pre-bookings/late night bookings. Tel. 01302 368 636. Also many local firms.

By air Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield is less than seven miles from Doncaster Racecourse, within easy reach of Manchester, Leeds Bradford and East Midlands airports.

FREE KETS TIC 6.50 RACETH £1 WOR rs and

e sts, winn to All finali E tickets E R F n e r ill be giv ecembe D n guests w o g cin s. day's ra b Award lu enjoy a C e h t y after on 1, the da r details o f 1 2 e ag Turn to p ook. how to b CLUB MIRROR 19

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CLUB AWARDS 2017

JOIN US FOR THE CLUB EVENT OF THE YEAR The Club Awards, now in their 26th year, are well known for providing the perfect informative – and fun – way to network with suppliers and fellow clubs.

Come and join us for a night of celebration and fun. Open to all clubs, this is the must-attend event of the year. (Finalists in the Awards receive two complimentary tickets.)

Complete the form below, or email us on caroline@clubmirror.com

TICKET BOOKING FORM 30 November, 2017, Doncaster Racecourse • Complimentary drinks reception

NAME: ________________________________________________________

• Three-course gala dinner

POSITION IN CLUB: ___________________________________________

• Entertainment with celebrity host

CLUB NAME AND ADDRESS: ____________________________________

• After dinner entertainment

______________________________________________________________

• Complimentary ticket to Doncaster Racecourse the following day for each guest

______________________________________________________________ CONTACT TELEPHONE NUMBER: _____________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS: _______________________________________________

n I would like _______ (STATE NUMBER) tickets @ £52 + VAT (Total inc VAT: £62.40).

n I would like ________ (STATE NUMBER) table/s for 10 @ £494 + VAT (Total inc VAT: £592.80).

SEND COMPLETED FORM TO CLUB MIRROR: BOOK ONLINE: www.awards.clubmirror.com or use this QR code

BY EMAIL: info@clubmirror.com

BY POST: Club Awards, Gainsborough House, 59-60 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1TX

BY FAX: 01753 272021 OR CALL: 01753 272022

CLUB MIRROR 21

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PREMIER LEAGUE SPECIAL

Premier League 2017-18

Let battle commence!

The new Premier League campaign is here with the 20 top football clubs battling it out for the coveted prize once again. With potentially 4.7 billion people tuning in worldwide, UK clubs will be joining in the drama. Are you ready for kick off?

D

rum roll! Yes it's the new Premier League season, now in its 26th year. Whether watching it pitch-side of off-side in the clubhouse the thrilling battle will play out on the world stage – watched globally by around 4.7bn people – as the top teams battle for the Number One spot. And there are bound to be casualties along the way.

Can last season winner Chelsea keep its focus and beat off rivals Manchester United? It looked good in 2016 when the boys in blue beat Man U 40 but the tables were turned in April this year when the Red Devils reversed their fortunes, scoring a 2-0 win over their former nemesis.

Man U will, of course, be in the sights of all 19 opponents. The club still heads up the winners table, substantially outstripping the rest of the field with 604 wins under its belt, chased by Arsenal at a distant 525.

But with Leicester City’s 2015-16 victory alive and well in living legend, excitement comes in the form of three new entrants, all hoping to follow in the Foxes mighty paw print. Will there be another

surprise package this time out? Eyes will certainly be on the three new entrants joining the elite 20 squad.

Brighton & Hove Albion join the elite ranks following their 2–1 win at home to Wigan Athletic on 17 April 2017, playing in the top flight of English football for the first time since 1983. Just a week later Newcastle United sealed its return to the Premier League by beating Preston North End 4–1 at home, and on 7 May the team was crowned champions after beating Barnsley 3–0 at home.

The third and final newbie, Huddersfield Town, earned its place amongst the Top 20 by beating Reading 4–3 on penalties after a 0–0 draw in both regular and extra time in the EFL Championship play-off final, 29 May 2017.

Everything to play for then in the new season – including the Golden Boot. Can Spurs’ Harry Cane make his hat trick by winning the coveted trophy for the third consecutive year? At 29 goals last season he’ll be chased hard by Arsenal’s Alexis Sánchez whose 25 goals are hardly insignificant.

WINNERS’ WONDER WALL • 1992/93 Manchester United • 1993/94 Manchester United • 1994/95 Blackburn Rovers • 1995/96 Manchester United • 1996/97 Manchester United • 1997/98 Arsenal • 1998/99 Manchester United • 1999/00 Manchester United • 2000/01 Manchester United • 2001/02 Arsenal • 2002/03 Manchester United • 2003/04 Arsenal • 2004/05 Chelsea • 2005/06 Chelsea • 2006/07 Manchester United • 2007/08 Manchester United • 2008/09 Manchester United • 2009/10 Chelsea • 2010/11 Manchester United • 2011/12 Manchester City • 2012/13 Manchester United • 2013/14 Manchester City • 2014/15 Chelsea • 2015/16 Leicester City • 2016/17 Chelsea • Want more details of fixtures and the Top 20 Premier League clubs? Your journey starts here.

(And for top tips on maximising screening in the club turn to HQ pages 36-37).

CLUB MIRROR 25

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PREMIER LEAGUE SPECIAL ARSENAL Winners of two memorable league and cup doubles and known for their attractive passing football under long-standing manager Arsene Wenger, the Gunners won their most recent silverware in the 2014/15 FA Cup, and finished as BPL runners-up last season.

Established Emirates Stadium Nickname 1886 (capacity 60,260) The Gunners _________________________________________

AFC BOURNEMOUTH Founded in 1899, Bournemouth were promoted to League One at the end of the 2009-10 season, to the Championship at the end of the 2012-13 season, and, after winning the Championship title in the 2014-15 season, earned promotion to the Premier League.

Established Goldsands Stadium Nickname 1899 (capacity 11,700) The Cherries _________________________________________

BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club make their Premier League debut in the 2017–18 season after sealing automatic promotion from the EFL Championship. The team reached the 1983 FA Cup Final, losing to Manchester United after a replay.

Established Falmer Stadium Nickname 1901 (capacity 30,750) The Seagulls _________________________________________

BURNLEY The Clarets were the winners of the Football League Championship last term and, thus, promoted to the top flight under Sean Dyche. The Turf Moor side first entered the Premier League in 2009, becoming the smallest club playing in the competition.

Established Turf Moor Nickname 1882 (capacity 21,401) The Clarets _________________________________________

CHELSEA Barclays Premier League winner in 2015 and 2012’s European Champions this is one of the most successful English teams of the modern era. The Blues have won the FA Cup seven times and the League Cup four times.

They won their first league and cup double in 2009/10.

Established Stamford Bridge Nickname 1905 (capacity 41,798) The Blues _________________________________________

CRYSTAL PALACE Crystal Palace originally played in the grounds of London’s Crystal Palace and were nicknamed The Glaziers. Last season saw them cap an impressive campaign by finishing as beaten finalists against the mighty Manchester United in the FA Cup. Established Selhurst Park Nickname 1905 (capacity25,747) The Eagles _________________________________________

EVERTON Everton has competed in the top flight for a record 112 seasons, and won the League Championship nine times, winning the FA Cup in 1995. The team come on to the

26 CLUB MIRROR

theme tune of 1960’s police series Z Cars.

Established Goodison Park Nickname 1878 (capacity39,571) The Toffees _________________________________________

HUDDERSFIELD TOWN Huddersfield Town was the first to win the English League title three times in a row in 1924, 1925 and 1926; only Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool have repeated this feat.

Established John Smith’s Stadium Nick name 1908 (capacity 24,500) The Terriers _________________________________________

LEICESTER CITY The team shocked the footballing world by winning the Premier League title, to the immense pride of its ecstatic supporters and huge respect worldwide. The club currently plays under Italian wizard Claudio Ranieri.

Established King Power Stadium Nick name 1884 (capacity 32,312) The Foxes _________________________________________

LIVERPOOL Liverpool are one of the most successful English teams of all time, with 18 league titles, seven FA Cups and five European Cups in their bulging trophy cabinet. Anfield Stadium is about as iconic as you can get, however, the club has still never won a Premier League title.

Established Anfield Nick name 1892 (capacity 44,742) The Reds _________________________________________

MANCHESTER CITY Founded in 1880 as St. Mark's, they became Ardwick Association Football Club in 1887 and Manchester City in 1894. League Cup winners and Premier League Champions in 2013/14, the Sky Blues added another League Cup trophy to the cabinet last season.

Established Etihad Stadium Nick name 1880 (capacity 55,097) The Citizens _________________________________________

MANCHESTER UNITED Old Trafford, AKA the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ is the largest club ground in Britain. During the 26-year tenure of Sir Alex Ferguson, the Red Devils won 38 trophies, including 13 premier league and two UEFA Champions League titles. Jose Mourinho is their new boss and last season saw them lift the FA Cup for the 12th time.

Established Old Trafford Nick name 1878 (capacity 75,653) The Red Devils _________________________________________

SOUTHAMPTON Southampton moved to St Mary’s stadium in 2001. The club won the FA cup in 1976 and finished second in the first division in 1983/84. They’d spent 27 years in the top flight before being relegated in 2005, returning to the Premier League for the 2012/13 season.

Established St Mary’s Nick name 1885 (capacity 32,505) The Saints _________________________________________

STOKE CITY Stoke city are said to be the second oldest professional club in the world after Notts County. They won the 1972 League Cup, after beating Chelsea 2-1 in the final and have successfully made it into the FA Cup semi-finals three times.

Established Britannia Nick name 1863 (capacity 27,902) The Potters _________________________________________

SWANSEA CITY Swansea were the first Welsh club to play in the Premier League since its inception in 1992. They finished 11th in their first season (2011/12), 9th in their second season (2012/13) and 12th in their third season (2013/14).

Established Liberty Stadium Nick name 1912 (capacity 20,909) The Swans _________________________________________

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR Tottenham Hotspur AKA Spurs, was the first club in the 20th Century to win the League and FA Cup double in 1960/61. They have won the FA cup eight times, the League Cup four times and the UEFA Cup. Established White Hart Lane Nick name 1882 (capacity 36,284) Spurs/Lilywhites _________________________________________

WATFORD The club, founded in 1881, first entered the FA Cup in 1886/87. It rose to top tier English football in 1982 and reached the FA Cup Final in 1984. The club has redeveloped its Elton John Stand.

Established Vicarage Road Nick name 1881 (capacity 21,500) Hornets _________________________________________

WEST BROMWICH ALBION West Bromwich Albion was one of the founding members of the Football League in 1888. The club has been Champions of England once (in 1919/20) and have won the FA cup five times.

Established The Hawthorns Nick name 1878 (capacity 26,852) The Baggies _________________________________________

NEWCASTLE UNITED Newcastle United Football Club joins the Premier League after winning the Championship title in 2017. The club has won four League Championship titles, six FA Cups and a Charity Shield.

Established St James’ Park Nick name 1892 (capacity 52,401) The Magpies

WEST HAM West Ham was formed in 1895 as Thames Ironworks FC, hence the hammers on the club crest and nickname ‘The Hammers’.

Established Olympic Stadium Nick name 1895 (capacity 60,010) The Hammers

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2017 FOOTBALL CLUB OF THE YEAR

OPEN FOR ENTRIES

Enter the 2017 Football Club of the Year email info@hsma.biz

REGISTRATION HOTLINE 01753 272022

PREMIER LEAGUE SPECIAL

FIXTURES

ARSENAL

BOURNEMOUTH

August TBC Everton Fri 11 Leicester Sat 19 Stoke Sun 27 Liverpool September Sat 9 Bournemouth Sun 17 Chelsea Mon 25 West Brom October Sun 1 Brighton Sat 14 Watford Sat 28 Swansea November Sun 5 Manchester City Sat 18 Spurs Sun 26 Burnley Wed 29 Huddersfield December Sat 2 Manchester Utd Sun 10 Southampton Wed 13 West Ham Sat 16 Newcastle Sat 23 Liverpool Tues 26 Crystal Palace Sat 30 West Brom January Mon 1 Chelsea Sat 13 Bournemouth Sat 20 Crystal Palace Tue 30 Swansea February Sat 3 Everton Sat 10 Spurs Sat 24 Manchester City March Sat 3 Brighton Sat 10 Watford Sat 17 Leicester Sat 31 Stoke April Sat 7 Southampton Sat 14 Newcastle Sat 21 West Ham Sat 28 Manchester Utd May Sat 5 Burnley Sun 13 Huddersfield

August Sat 12 West Brom Sat 19 Watford Sat 26 Manchester City September Sat 9 Arsenal Fri 15 Brighton Sat 23 Everton Sat 30 Leicester October Sat 14 Spurs Sat 21 Stoke Sat 28 Chelsea November Sat 4 Newcastle Sat 18 Huddersfield Sat 25 Swansea Wed 29 Burnley December Sat 2 Southampton Sat 9 Crystal Palace Tue 12 Manchester Utd Sat 16 Liverpool Sat 23 Manchester City Tue 26 West Ham Sat 30 Everton January Mon 1 Brighton Sat 13 Arsenal Sat 20 West Ham Wed 31 Chelsea February Sat 3 Stoke Sat 10 Huddersfield Sat 24 Newcastle March Sat 3 Leicester Sat 10 Spurs Sat 17 West Brom Sat 31 Watford April Sat 7 Crystal Palace Sat 14 Liverpool Sat 21 Manchester Utd Sat 28 Southampton May Sat 5 Swansea Sun 13 Burnley

A H A A H A H H A H A H A H H A A H H A A H A H A H A H A H A H H A H A H A

28 CLUB MIRROR

A H H A H A H A A H A H A H H A A H A H H A H A A H A H A H H A H A H A H A

CHELSEA

BURNLEY August Sat 12 Chelsea Sat 19 West Brom Sun 27 Spurs September Sun 10 Crystal Palace Sat 16 Liverpool Sat 23 Huddersfield October Sun 1 Everton Sat 14 West Ham Sat 21 Manchester City Sat 28 Newcastle November Sat 4 Southampton Sat 18 Swansea Sun 26 Arsenal Wed 29 Bournemouth December Sat 2 Leicester Sat 9 Watford Tue 12 Stoke Sat 16 Brighton Sat 23 Spurs Tue 26 Manchester Utd Sat 30 Huddersfield January Mon 1 Liverpool Sat 13 Crystal Palace Sat 20 Manchester Utd Wed 31 Newcastle February Sat 3 Manchester City Sat 10 Swansea Sat 24 Southampton March Sat 3 Everton Sat 10 West Ham Sat 17 Chelsea Sat 31 West Brom April Sat 7 Watford Sat 14 Leicester Sat 21 Stoke Sat 28 Brighton May Sat 5 Arsenal Sun 13 Bournemouth

BRIGHTON & HOVE

A H A A A H A H A H A H H A A H H A H A A H A H A H A H H A H A A H A H A H

August Sat 12 Burnley Sat 19 Spurs Sat 26 Everton September Sat 9 Leicester Sun 17 Arsenal Sat 23 Stoke Sat 30 Manchester City October Sat 14 Crystal Palace Sat 21 Watford Sat 28 Bournemouth November Sat 4 Manchester Utd Sat 18 West Brom Sat 25 Liverpool Wed 29 Swansea December Sat 2 Newcastle Sat 9 West Ham Tue 12 Huddersfield Sat 16 Southampton Sat 23 Everton Tue 26 Brighton Sat 30 Stoke January Mon 1 Arsenal Sat 13 Leicester Sat 20 Brighton Wed 31 Bournemouth February Sat 3 Watford Sat 10 West Brom Sat 24 Manchester Utd March Sat 3 Manchester City Sat 10 Crystal Palace Sat 17 Burnley Sat 31 Spurs April Sat 7 West Ham Sat 14 Southampton Sat 21 Huddersfield Sat 28 Swansea May Sat 5 Liverpool Sun 13 Newcastle

August Sat 12 Manchester City Sat 19 Leicester Sat 26 Watford September Sat 9 West Brom Fri 15 Bournemouth Sun 24 Newcastle October Sun 1 Arsenal Sat 14 Everton Sat 21 West Ham Sat 28 Southampton November Sat 4 Swansea Sat 18 Stoke Sat 25 Manchester Utd Tue 28 Crystal Palace December Sat 2 Liverpool Sat 9 Huddersfield Wed 13 Spurs Sat 16 Burnley Sat 23 Watford Tue 26 Chelsea Sat 30 Newcastle January Mon 1 Bournemouth Sat 13 West Brom Sat 20 Chelsea Wed 31 Southampton February Sat 3 West Ham Sat 10 Stoke Sat 24 Swansea March Sat 3 Arsenal Sat 10 Everton Sat 17 Manchester City Sat 31 Leicester April Sat 7 Huddersfield Sat 14 Crystal Palace Sat 21 Spurs Sat 28 Burnley May Sat 5 Manchester Utd Sun 13 Liverpool

H A A H A H A H A H A H A H H A A H H A A H A H A H A H H A A H H A H A H A

CRYSTAL PALACE H A H A H A H A H A H A A H H A A H A H H A H A H A H A A H A H H A H A H A

August Sat 12 Huddersfield Sat 19 Liverpool Sat 26 Swansea September Sun 10 Burnley Sat 16 Southampton Sat 23 Manchester City Sat 30 Manchester Utd October Sat 14 Chelsea Sat 21 Newcastle Sat 28 West Ham November Sat 4 Spurs Sat 18 Everton Sat 25 Stoke Tue 28 Brighton December Sat 2 West Brom Sat 9 Bournemouth Tue 12 Watford Sat 16 Leicester Sat 23 Swansea Tue 26 Arsenal Sat 30 Manchester City January Mon 1 Southampton Sat 13 Burnley Sat 20 Arsenal Tue 30 West Ham February Sat 3 Newcastle Sat 10 Everton Sat 24 Spurs March Sat 3 Manchester Utd Sat 10 Chelsea Sat 17 Huddersfield Sat 31 Liverpool April Sat 7 Bournemouth Sat 14 Brighton Sat 21 Watford Sat 28 Leicester May Sat 5 Stoke Sun 13 West Brom

Please note: Matches may be subject to change or alteration.

EVERTON H A H A H A A H A H A H H A A H H A A H H A H A A H A H H A A H A H A H A H

August TBC Arsenal Sat 12 Stoke Mon 21 Manchester City Sat 26 Chelsea September Sat 9 Spurs Sun 17 Manchester Utd Sat 23 Bournemouth October Sun 1 Burnley Sat 14 Brighton Sat 28 Leicester November Sat 4 Watford Sat 18 Crystal Palace Sat 25 Southampton Wed 29 West Ham December Sat 2 Huddersfield Sat 9 Liverpool Wed 13 Newcastle Sat 16 Swansea Sat 23 Chelsea Tues 26 West Brom Sat 30 Bournemouth January Mon 1 Manchester Utd Sat 13 Spurs Sat 20 West Brom Wed 31 Leicester February Sat 3 Arsenal Sat 10 Crystal Palace Sat 24 Watford March Sat 3 Burnley Sat 10 Brighton Sat 17 Stoke Sat 31 Manchester City April Sat 7 Liverpool Sat 14 Swansea Sat 21 Newcastle Sat 28 Huddersfield May Sat 5 Southampton Sun 13 West Ham

H H A A H A H H A A H A A H H A A H H A A H A H H A H A A H A H H A H A H A

FOR 2017-2018

HUDDERSFIELD August Sat 12 Crystal Palace Sun 20 Newcastle Sat 26 Southampton September Mon 11 West Ham Sat 16 Leicester Sat 23 Burnley Sat 30 Spurs October Sat 14 Swansea Sat 21 Manchester Utd Sat 28 Liverpool November Sat 4 West Brom Sat 18 Bournemouth Sat 25 Manchester City Wed 29 Arsenal December Sat 2 Everton Sat 9 Brighton Tue 12 Chelsea Sat 16 Watford Sat 23 Southampton Tue 26 Stoke Sat 30 Burnley January Mon 1 Leicester Sat 13 West Ham Sat 20 Stoke Tue 30 Liverpool February Sat 3 Manchester Utd Sat 10 Bournemouth Sat 24 West Brom March Sat 3 Spurs Sat 10 Swansea Sat 17 Crystal Palace Sat 31 Newcastle April Sat 7 Brighton Sat 14 Watford Sat 21 Chelsea Sat 28 Everton May Sat 5 Manchester City Sun 13 Arsenal

LEICESTER CITY

LIVERPOOL

August Fri 11 Arsenal Sat 19 Brighton Sat 26 Manchester Utd September Sat 9 Chelsea Sat 16 Huddersfield Sat 23 Liverpool Sat 30 Bournemouth October Sat 14 West Brom Sat 21 Swansea Sat 28 Everton November Sat 4 Stoke Sat 18 Manchester City Sat 25 West Ham Tue 28 Spurs December Sat 2 Burnley Sat 9 Newcastle Wed 13 Southampton Sat 16 Crystal Palace Sat 23 Manchester Utd Tue 26 Watford Sat 30 Liverpool January Mon 1 Huddersfield Sat 13 Chelsea Sat 20 Watford Wed 31 Everton February Sat 3 Swansea Sat 10 Manchester City Sat 24 Stoke March Sat 3 Bournemouth Sat 10 West Brom Sat 17 Arsenal Sat 31 Brighton April Sat 7 Newcastle Sat 14 Burnley Sat 21 Southampton Sat 28 Crystal Palace May Sat 5 West Ham Sun 13 Spurs

August Sat 12 Watford Sat 19 Crystal Palace Sun 27 Arsenal September Sat 9 Manchester City Sat 16 Burnley Sat 23 Leicester October Sun 1 Newcastle Sat 14 Manchester Utd Sat 21 Spurs Sat 28 Huddersfield November Sat 4 West Ham Sat 18 Southampton Sat 25 Chelsea Wed 29 Stoke December Sat 2 Brighton Sat 9 Everton Wed 13 West Brom Sat 16 Bournemouth Sat 23 Arsenal Tue 26 Swansea Sat 30 Leicester January Mon 1 Burnley Sat 13 Manchester City Sat 20 Swansea Tue 30 Huddersfield February Sat 3 Spurs Sat 10 Southampton Sat 24 West Ham March Sat 3 Newcastle Sat 10 Manchester Utd Sat 17 Watford Sat 31 Crystal Palace April Sat 7 Everton Sat 14 Bournemouth Sat 21 West Brom Sat 28 Stoke May Sat 5 Chelsea Sun 13 Brighton

A H A H A H A H A H A H A H H A A H H A A H A H A H A H H A H A H A H A H A

A H A H A H A H A H A A H H A A H H A H A H A H A A H A A A H A H A H

August Sun 13 West Ham Sat 19 Swansea Sat 26 Leicester September Sat 9 Stoke Sun 17 Everton Sat 23 Southampton Sat 30 Crystal Palace October Sat 14 Liverpool Sat 21 Huddersfield Sat 28 Spurs November Sat 4 Chelsea Sat 18 Newcastle Sat 25 Brighton Tue 28 Watford December Sat 2 Arsenal Sat 9 Manchester City Tue 12 Bournemouth Sat 16 West Brom Sat 23 Leicester Tue 26 Burnley Sat 30 Southampton January Mon 1 Everton Sat 13 Stoke Sat 20 Burnley Wed 31 Spurs February Sat 3 Huddersfield Sat 10 Newcastle Sat 24 Chelsea March Sat 3 Crystal Palace Sat 10 Liverpool Sat 17 West Ham Sat 31 Swansea April Sat 7 Manchester City Sat 14 West Brom Sat 21 Bournemouth Sat 28 Arsenal May Sat 5 Brighton Sun 13 Watford

A H H A H A A H A H A H H A A H H A A H H A H A A H A H H A H A A H A H A H

H A H A H A H A A H A H H A A H H A A H H A H A A H A H A H A H A H A H A H

August Sun 13 Spurs Sat 19 Huddersfield Sat 26 West Ham September Sun 10 Swansea Sat 16 Stoke Sun 24 Brighton October Sun 1 Liverpool Sat 14 Southampton Sat 21 Crystal Palace Sat 28 Burnley November Sat 4 Bournemouth Sat 18 Manchester Utd Sat 25 Watford Tue 28 West Brom December Sat 2 Chelsea Sat 9 Leicester Wed 13 Everton Sat 16 Arsenal Sat 23 West Ham Tue 26 Manchester City Sat 30 Brighton January Mon 1 Stoke Sat 13 Swansea Sat 20 Manchester City Wed 31 Burnley February Sat 3 Crystal Palace Sat 10 Manchester Utd Sat 24 Bournemouth March Sat 3 Liverpool Sat 10 Southampton Sat 17 Spurs Sat 31 Huddersfield April Sat 7 Leicester Sat 14 Arsenal Sat 21 Everton Sat 28 West Brom May Sat 5 Watford Sun 13 Chelsea

August Sat 12 Brighton Mon 21 Everton Sat 26 Bournemouth September Sat 9 Liverpool Sat 16 Watford Sat 23 Crystal Palace Sat 30 Chelsea October Sat 14 Stoke Sat 21 Burnley Sat 28 West Brom November Sun 5 Arsenal Sat 18 Leicester Sat 25 Huddersfield Wed 29 Southampton December Sat 2 West Ham Sat 9 Manchester Utd Tue 12 Swansea Sat 16 Spurs Sat 23 Bournemouth Tue 26 Newcastle Sat 30 Crystal Palace January Mon 1 Watford Sat 13 Liverpool Sat 20 Newcastle Wed 31 West Brom February Sat 3 Burnley Sat 10 Leicester Sat 24 Arsenal March Sat 3 Chelsea Sat 10 Stoke Sat 17 Brighton Sat 31 Everton April Sat 7 Manchester Utd Sat 14 Spurs Sat 21 Swansea Sat 28 West Ham May Sat 5 Huddersfield Sun 13 Southampton

A H A H A H A H H A H A A H H A A H H A A H A H H A H A H A H A H A H A H A

SOUTHAMPTON

NEWCASTLE UTD

MANCHESTER UTD A H H

MANCHESTER CITY

H A H A H A H A H A H A H A A H H A A H H A H A H A H A A H A H A H A H A H

August Sat 12 Swansea Sat 19 West Ham Sat 26 Huddersfield September Sat 9 Watford Sat 16 Crystal Palace Sat 23 Manchester Utd Sat 30 Stoke October Sat 14 Newcastle Sat 21 West Brom Sat 28 Brighton November Sat 4 Burnley Sat 18 Liverpool Sat 25 Everton Wed 29 Manchester City December Sat 2 Bournemouth Sun 10 Arsenal Wed 13 Leicester Sat 16 Chelsea Sat 23 Huddersfield Tue 26 Spurs Sat 30 Manchester Utd January Mon 1 Crystal Palace Sat 13 Watford Sat 20 Spurs Wed 31 Brighton February Sat 3 West Brom Sat 10 Liverpool Sat 24 Burnley March Sat 3 Stoke Sat 10 Newcastle Sat 17 Swansea Sat 31 West Ham April Sat 7 Arsenal Sat 14 Chelsea Sat 21 Leicester Sat 28 Bournemouth May Sat 5 Everton Sun 13 Manchester City

H H A H A H A H H A H A H A A H H A H A A H A H H A H A H A A A A H A H A H

CLUB MIRROR 29

PREMIER LEAGUE SPECIAL

SWANSEA CITY

STOKE CITY August Sat 12 Everton Sat 19 Arsenal Sun 27 West Brom September Sat 9 Manchester Utd Sat 16 Newcastle Sat 23 Chelsea Sat 30 Southampton October Sat 14 Manchester City Sat 21 Bournemouth Sat 28 Watford November Sat 4 Leicester Sat 18 Brighton Sat 25 Crystal Palace Wed 29 Liverpool December Sat 2 Swansea Sat 9 Spurs Tue 12 Burnley Sat 16 West Ham Sat 23 West Brom Tue 26 Huddersfield Sat 30 Chelsea January Mon 1 Newcastle Sat 13 Manchester Utd Sat 20 Huddersfield Wed 31 Watford February Sat 3 Bournemouth Sat 10 Brighton Sat 24 Leicester March Sat 3 Southampton Sat 10 Manchester City Sat 17 Everton Sat 31 Arsenal April Sat 7 Spurs Sat 14 West Ham Sat 21 Burnley Sat 28 Liverpool May Sat 5 Crystal Palace Sun 13 Swansea

A H A H A H H A H A H A A H H A A H H A A H A H A A H A A H H A A A H A H A

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August Sat 12 Southampton Sat 19 Manchester Utd Sat 26 Crystyal Palace September Sun 10 Newcastle Sat 16 Spurs Sat 23 Watford Sat 30 West Ham October Sat 14 Huddersfield Sat 21 Leicester Sat 28 Arsenal November Sat 4 Brighton Sat 18 Burnley Sat 25 Bournemouth Wed 29 Chelsea December Sat 2 Stoke Sat 9 West Brom Tue 12 Manchester City Sat 16 Everton Sat 23 Crystal Palace Tue 26 Liverpool Sat 30 Watford January Mon 1 Spurs Sat 13 Newcastle Sat 20 Liverpool Tue 30 Arsenal February Sat 3 Leicester Sat 10 Burnley Sat 24 Brighton March Sat 3 West Ham Sat 10 Huddersfield Sat 17 Southampton Sat 31 Manchester Utd April Sat 7 West Brom Sat 14 Everton Sat 21 Manchester City Sat 28 Chelsea May Sat 5 Bournemouth Sun 13 Stoke

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR A H A H A H A H H A H A H A A H H A H A A H A H H A H A H A H A A H A H A H

WEST HAM

WEST BROM August Sat 12 Bournemouth Sat 19 Burnley Sun 27 Stoke September Sat 9 Brighton Sat 16 West Ham Mon 25 Arsenal Sat 30 Watford October Sat 14 Leicester Sat 21 Southampton Sat 28 Manchester City November Sat 4 Huddersfield Sat 18 Chelsea Sat 25 Spurs Tue 28 Newcastle December Sat 2 Crystal Palace Sat 9 Swansea Wed 13 Liverpool Sat 16 Manchester Utd Sat 23 Stoke Tue 26 Everton Sat 30 Arsenal January Mon 1 West Ham Sat 13 Brighton Sat 20 Everton Wed 31 Manchester City February Sat 3 Southampton Sat 10 Chelsea Sat 24 Huddersfield March Sat 3 Watford Sat 10 Leicester Sat 17 Bournemouth Sat 31 Burnley April Sat 7 Swansea Sat 14 Manchester Utd Sat 21 Liverpool Sat 28 Newcastle May Sat 5 Spurs Sun 13 Crystal Palace

FIXTURES CONTINUED

H A H A H A H A A H A H A H H A A H A H H A H A A H A H A H A H H A H A H A

August Sun 13 Manchester Utd Sat 19 Southampton Sat 26 Newcastle September Mon 11 Huddersfield Sat 16 West Brom Sat 23 Spurs Sat 30 Swansea October Sat 14 Burnley Sat 21 Brighton Sat 28 Crystal Palace November Sat 4 Liverpool Sat 18 Watford Sat 25 Leicester Wed 29 Everton December Sat 2 Manchester City Sat 9 Chelsea Wed 13 Arsenal Sat 16 Stoke Sat 23 Newcastle Tue 26 Bournemouth Sat 30 Spurs January Mon 1 West Brom Sat 13 Huddersfield Sat 20 Bournemouth Tue 30 Crystal Palace February Sat 3 Brighton Sat 10 Watford Sat 24 Liverpool March Sat 3 Swansea Sat 10 Burnley Sat 17 Manchester Utd Sat 31 Southampton April Sat 7 Chelsea Sat 14 Stoke Sat 21 Arsenal Sat 28 Manchester City May Sat 5 Leicester Sun 13 Everton

August Sun 13 Newcastle Sun 20 Chelsea Sun 27 Burnley September Sat 9 Everton Sat 16 Swansea Sat 23 West Ham Sat 30 Huddersfield October Sat 14 Bournemouth Sat 21 Liverpool Sat 28 Manchester Utd November Sat 4 Crystal Palace Sat 18 Arsenal Sat 25 West Brom Tue 28 Leicester December Sat 2 Watford Sat 9 Stoke Wed 13 Brighton Sat 16 Manchester City Sat 23 Burnley Tue 26 Southampton Sat 30 West Ham January Mon 1 Swansea Sat 13 Everton Sat 20 Southampton Wed 31 Manchester Utd February Sat 3 Liverpool Sat 10 Arsenal Sat 24 Crystal Palace March Sat 3 Huddersfield Sat 10 Bournemouth Sat 17 Newcastle Sat 31 Chelsea April Sat 7 Stoke Sat 14 Manchester City Sat 21 Brighton Sat 28 Watford May Sat 5 West Brom Sun 13 Leicester

A H H A H A A H H A H A H A A H H A A H H A H A H A H A H A H A A H A H A H

WATFORD August Sat 12 Liverpool Sat 19 Bournemouth Sat 26 Brighton September Sat 9 Southampton Sat 16 Manchester City Sat 23 Swansea Sat 30 West Brom October Sat 14 Arsenal Sat 21 Chelsea Sat 28 Stoke November Sat 4 Everton Sat 18 West Ham Sat 25 Newcastle Tue 28 Manchester Utd December Sat 2 Spurs Sat 9 Burnley Tue 12 Crystal Palace Sat 16 Huddersfield Sat 23 Brighton Tue 26 Leicester Sat 30 Swansea January Mon 1 Manchester City Sat 13 Southampton Sat 20 Leicester Wed 31 Stoke February Sat 3 Chelsea Sat 10 West Ham Sat 24 Everton March Sat 3 West Brom Sat 10 Arsenal Sat 17 Liverpool Sat 31 Bournemouth April Sat 7 Burnley Sat 14 Huddersfield Sat 21 Crystal Palace Sat 28 Spurs May Sat 5 Newcastle Sun 13 Manchester Utd

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LIVE SPORTING FIXTURES FROM

The best of Sports4Bars.com looks ahead to the biggest sporting fixtures coming up in August as the new football season gets underway with the FA Community Shield clash.

Sunday August 6, 4pm – BT Sport 2 HD

FA Community Shield: Chelsea v Arsenal The traditional curtain-raiser to the English domestic season takes place at Wembley as the League champions take on the FA Cup holders. This will be a repeat of last season’s FA Cup Final and both teams will desperate to get a win and put out a marker for the season to follow.

Tuesday August 8, 7.45pm – BT Sport 2 HD

UEFA Super Cup - Real Madrid v Manchester United A clash between the UEFA Champions League winners Real Madrid and UEFA Europa League champions Manchester United. The venue will be the Philip II Arena in Macedonia and there will be some breathtaking talent on display for both sides, including a raft of new faces in the Manchester United squad.

Sunday August 6 4pm BT Sport 2 HD

Friday August 11 7.45pm Sky Sports HD

FA Community Shield: Chelsea v Arsenal

Premier League: Arsenal v Leicester City

The traditional curtain-raiser to the new football season featuring the Premier League champions against the FA Cup holders takes place at Wembley with some major moraleboosting silverware on offer for the winner.

After a somewhat traumatic season, can the Gunners regroup and regain their accustomed place in the Premier League top four? Leicester City also endured a disappointing season last time out and will be looking for major improvement.

Sunday August 6 4.30pm Sky Sports HD

Saturday August 12 12.30pm Sky Sports HD

Championship Football: Bolton Wanderers v Leeds United

Premier League: Watford v Liverpool

Bolton Wanderers have been fairly active in the player market during the off-season with former Bradford City defender Stephen Darby signing up on a two-year deal and several other players joining the squad.

There is major excitment amongst the fans at Anfield as Jurgen Klopp’s project continues. The Liverpool manager got off to a slow start in the transfer window but will be satisfied that his squad has the necessary strength for the battles ahead.

Tuesday August 8 7.45pm BT Sport 2 HD

UEFA Super Cup: Real Madrid v Manchester United A huge early season game featuring two of the most decorated sides in world football as the winners of the Champions League take on the UEFA Europa League holders in Macedonia.

Sunday August 20, 4pm – Sky Sports HD

Premier League: Tottenham Hotspur v Chelsea A massive game for both sides as the title holders take on last season’s runners-up at Tottenham’s temporary home Wembley Stadium. Spurs striker Harry Kane will be the danger man for the home side after a sensational run of form for his team last term and will be closely marked by an efficient Blues defence which was the cornerstone of their Premier League title win in 2016/17.

Wednesday August 9 7.45pm Sky Sports HD

League Cup: Colchester United v Aston Villa Can new signing John Terry inspired Villa to a victory in this League Cup tie away to Colchester United?

Sunday August 13 1.30pm Sky Sports HD

Premier League: Newcastle United v Tottenham Hotspur After winning promotion from the Championship, the Magpies will be out to reclaim their former glory and prove to their adoring army of fans that they belong in the top flight.

Sunday August 13 4pm Sky Sports HD

Premier League: Manchester United v West Ham United The Hammers make the difficult trip to Old Trafford to take on Mourinho’s men.

For latest news and timings on sporting events coming to the club screen, visit Sports4Bars.com 32 CLUB MIRROR

August’s live sport ALSO COMING UP...

England v West Indies, Thursday, August 17, 2pm, Sky Sports HD.

Saturday August 12 4pm Sky Sports HD

Cricket: NatWest T20 Blast Somerset v Kent Spitfires Saturday August 12 5.30pm Sky Sports HD

Championship Football: Middlesbrough v Sheffield United Sunday August 13 2.30pm Sky Sports HD

Cricket: NatWest T20 Blast Surrey v Sussex Sharks

Thursday August 17 2pm Sky Sports HD

Sunday August 20 1pm Sky Sports HD

Friday August 25 11am Sky Sports HD

International Cricket: England v West Indies, 1st Test - Day 1

Premier League: Huddersfield Town v Newcastle United

International Cricket: England v West Indies, 2nd Test - Day 1

England begin their three-Test series against the West Indies. The tourists will be wary of their hosts after some fine recent England performances against South Africa.

During their debut season Huddersfield Town will be out to prove they belong in the Premier League and have strengthened their squad considerably.

Headingley is the venue for the 2nd Test between England and the West Indies. The tourists last won a Test at this venue back in 1995.

Saturday August 19 12.30pm Sky Sports HD

Sunday August 20 4pm Sky Sports HD

Premier League: Swansea City v Manchester United

Premier League: Tottenham Hotspur v Chelsea

Swansea earned many plaudits for their battling form in the latter weeks of last season when they managed to pull together and avoid the drop.

One of the biggest games of the month as last year’s champions, Chelsea, takes on the 2016-17 runners-up Tottenham at Wembley Stadium.

Saturday August 19 5.30pm BT Sport HD

Monday August 21 8pm Sky Sports HD

Premier League: Stoke City v Arsenal

Premier League: Manchester City v Everton

Stoke City are celebrating their 10th successive season in the Premier League.

Everton will be hoping that the return of Wayne Rooney will help to galvanise the team.

Saturday August 26 2pm BBC1

Rugby League: Challenge Cup Final Rugby League will take centre stage at Wembley as the knockout competition reaches its climax. Hull FC beat Warrington Wolves 12-10 in last year’s final.

Sunday August 27 4pm Sky Sports HD

Wednesday August 16 6.30pm Sky Sports HD

Cricket: NatWest T20 Blast Lancashire Lightning v Worcestershire Rapids Friday August 18 7.45pm Sky Sports HD

Championship Football: Burton Albion v Birmingham City Saturday August 19 5.30pm Sky Sports HD

Championship Football: Sunderland v Leeds United Friday August 25 7.45pm Sky Sports HD

Championship Football: Bristol City v Aston Villa

Premier League: Liverpool v Arsenal There were goals aplenty in matches between these two sides last season, Liverpool winning both League ties, 4-3 and 3-1 respectively.

www.Sports4Bars.com

For latest news and timings on sporting events coming to the club screen, visit Sports4Bars.com CLUB MIRROR 33

HQ BUILDING THE BUSINESS

HQ BUILDING THE BUSINESS

In this month’s HQ the Royal Mint and HM Treasury are calling on clubs and businesses to ensure that they are prepared for the £1 coin change over (use it or lose it). Also: security top tips to avoid cyber crime, the value of social media and viral marketing, tips on maximising revenues from the Premier League and our resident Legal Eagle’s advice on how to enjoy a safe, legislative-free summer. PLUS: don’t forget to sign up to our free-to-clubs Building the Business service to find out how much money you can save your club.

Clubs must get ready for £1 coin changeover With the old pound coin going out of circulation on October 15 this year The Royal Mint and HM Treasury are encouraging all those businesses that are yet to prepare for the new 12-sided one pound coin to do so now.

T

here will be more new 12-sided pound coins in circulation than round pounds by the time you read this says the Royal Mint. Some businesses have been waiting for the changeover period before upgrading their gaming and vending machines.

However, businesses across the country are being urged to check equipment to ensure everything is in place as the October 15 deadline approaches.

Clubs are encouraged to: • Upgrade any remaining equipment to accept the 12-sided £1 coin. Any equipment which continues to accept round pounds will be at risk of being targeted with counterfeit coins.

• Bank round and 12-sided pound coins in separate bags.

• Bank their round pound coins first, when possible.

• Encourage their customers to spend their round pounds before the October deadline.

• • •

• • •

Facts and Stats • Over 600 million of the new 12-sided £1 coins have now been issued.

• Over 800 million round £1 coins have been

returned – some of them will be melted down and reused to make the new £1 coin.

There were more new £1 coins than round pound coins in circulation by late July.

The Royal Mint will make 1.5 billion of the new £1 coins.

The Royal Mint has produced over 2.1 billion round pound coins since 1983 – that’s the same weight as nearly 6,000 elephants.

25 different designs have appeared on the old pound coin, from dragons to trees.

Over 1 billion new £1 coin have been produced Consumers are being encouraged to spend, bank and donate their old pound coins before 15 October 2017.

For more information visit: www.thenewpoundcoin.com or email newonepoundcoin@royalmint.com.

Sharing the good news We are now a society that likes to share good experiences as well as bad ones, according to latest research commissioned

by Yonder Digital Group. That’s great news, but how does that work in practice for clubs?

Y

onder Digital's research showed that 38% of consumers will actually post about a positive social media experience; that’s more than those who will broadcast a negative one (31%).

When a leisure provider does come across an unsatisfied customer, the research showed that their capacity to respond quickly to negative reviews can have a positive impact.

Traditional ways of communicating positive experiences to friends and family are still vital however, says the report, with a far greater proportion of people telling friends and family about their good

36 CLUB MIRROR

experiences (89%) than posting about them on social media (38%).

So how can clubs make sure members are sharing the good times with those who matter? Having a clear understanding of the customer journey is important, says Yonder Digital, and must avoid agestereotypes. It must be based on a rigorous, objective analysis of customer data. Good practice data handling and analysis will help clubs understand their members, therefore helping to serve them better and market to them more effectively.

In addition to demonstrating a solid under-

standing of the customer, clubs need to offer consumers channel choice. Attempting to transfer all contact to online and automated channels can often drive customers away, says the report.

The report concludes that clubs need to ensure that members are sharing good experiences, are being analysed, understood and – ultimately – encouraged or facilitated. Live contact, for example friends sharing a great club experience, is far from surpassed, ‘and combining customer data with excellent live agent support could be critical to turning customers into ambassadors’.

Instilling a security culture According to a recent survey conducted by security systems specialists Expert Security UK, almost a third of the UK public are not aware of the safety and security policies implemented by the company or club that they work for.

W

ith cyber crime making headline news on an alarmingly regular basis – the NHS ‘WannaCry’ cyber-attacks being amongst the most recent headlines – it is imperative that all businesses introduce a robust security culture and ensure that staff abide by them – from securing the premises to avoiding cyber crime.

Danny Scholfield, Managing Director at Expert Security UK and a team of business experts have compiled a Top Tips list on how to establish the best ways to encourage staff to embrace security and put in place robust security processes.

1. Be transparent with the team Build trust and secure buy-in from your team by sharing your objectives and communicating clearly on the processes you are implementing to achieve them. This level of transparency is key to build trust, according to James Hall, creative director at HeX Productions: “The way of ensuring that all staff abide by the security policy is making sure that they understand the importance of the procedures and how they protect the clients,” says Hall. “Businesses can improve security really easily and it’s about asking around if unsure. Don’t always go for the cheapest developer because they might not have as much security as those who charge a little bit more.”

2. Use the right tools for the job New techniques harnessing the potential and power of ever more advanced technology pose a major threat to business security, and the consequences can be devastating. Businesses should take steps to know what tools are available and best suited to enhance security and combat threats.

David Pinches, marketing director at Oak, recommends a “single sign-on” for users and system managers with varying level of secure access.

For Harshini Carey, regional director at Neupart, the key is to invest in a tool that provides you with ongoing control. “You need to have a clear overview of all your necessary processes: who’s involved in each process, and what stage they’re at,” she says.”

One of the best ways to do this is to carry out a gap analysis. Figure out where you stand in relation to security standards such as the GDPR, and which areas you need to improve in order to be fully compliant.” It’s best that you don’t view this as an annual job to be carried out by an external consultant, but rather invest in a tool that allows you continual control and a better understanding of your organisation’s compliance.”

3. Don’t forget physical security With high-profile cases of digital threats and your smartphone never far from your thoughts, it would be all too easy for clubs to neglect the physical security of

Total

Gender

Age

‘agree’

Male

Female

18-24 25-34 35-44

45-54 55-64

65+

If I have a good customer experience with a company I usually tell my friends and/or family

89%

87%

92%

84%

88%

91%

88%

91%

92%

If I have a bad customer experience with a company I usually tell my friends and/or family

84%

83%

86%

78%

82%

87%

86%

87%

87%

If I have a good customer experience with a company I usually post something about it on social media

38%

39%

38%

49%

60%

45%

32%

23%

22%

If I have a bad customer experience with a company I usually post something about it on social media

31%

32%

30%

38%

46%

41%

27%

22%

14%

the premises. For Expert Security UK’s Danny Scholfield this should continue to be assessed and improved as part of business’s plans to implement an effective security culture.

“As we go forward, it’s imperative that we’re using every possible method to our advantage. This means

being open to new solutions (provided that they’re fully tested and operative, of course) and making sure there is a balance between physical and cyber security,” he says.

“For businesses, there are plenty of new solutions that are being designed to prevent security breaches – from bi-folding speed gates and crash-tested bollards.”

Making the Premier League work for the club coffers Sky Sports offers up the following advice on attracting in football fans for 2017-18 Premier League season. (See pages 25-30 for details.)

• Marketing before an event is key so make sure you advertise fixtures early to attract even more customers through the door –take advantage of free posters and promotional materials from your provider to help with this.

• Build a community – social media is a great way to reach out to your members so get active on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Use them to encourage members to chat about their favourite teams and build a buzz around your venue so your club is the number one spot to enjoy the Premier League this season.

• Start the weekend early with Friday Night Football. Attract members in early for drinks and a bite to eat and then keep them in your club for

longer with some exciting Premier League action.

• Make a day of it – create a whole match-day event on a Saturday or Super Sunday by decorating your club with football colours and memorabilia, offering live entertainment before and after the matches and putting on special offers for football fans.

• Offer deals on drinks and food to make matchdays an even bigger success, tailoring menus to keep football fans satisfied.

• Make the most of your free multiple viewing cards to show action from other sports as well to help keep fans in for longer and make your club the venue of choice for live sport.

• Add to the experience for members by adding creative touches like member competitions which complement the action on screen, or encouraging fans to share their photos and comments on the club’s social media platforms.

CLUB MIRROR 37

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HQ BUILDING THE BUSINESS

HQ BUILDING THE BUSINESS

Want to cut club spend while increasing efficiencies? Well now you can. Introducing HQ Building the Business. Completely free to clubs this new service involves no contracts and no costs, just better buying and better club business.

Welcome to HQ Building the Business F

rom utilities and energy savings to procurement and financial services, HQ Building the Business works with your club as a surrogate head office, helping you to boost club business. And by working with carefully selected club-supporting partners and suppliers, HQ Building the Business will save you valuable time and resources in the quest to save your club money, freeing up you and your committee to run an even more efficient club.

You’re just three steps away from saving money.

Step 1 Free no-obligation audit – just call us or email us.

Step 2 Following our audit and discussions, if we believe we can help your club we will source the best deals available.

Step 3 Your club starts saving money.

This is what we call a win win! So get in touch now and help us help you to make 2017 an even better year for your club and your members. You can call on 01753 272022, email enquiries@hqbusiness.com or use the form opposite.

Frequently Asked Questions

business, but if we can help we will.

Q. What do I get when I become a member?

A: You get a free and confidential audit of your club in those areas where you would like to find savings and efficiencies. This could be anything from utilities to phone bills and from food to club equipment.

Q. What are your club credentials?

A. We’ve been working in the club sector for over 30 years in various roles. The launch of HQ Building the Business is the culmination of many years working with clubs and suppliers, from brewers and telecoms suppliers, to energy and water companies.

Q. What are the costs?

A. There are no costs. HQ is free to join.

Q. If I become a member, what are my obligations?

A. There are no obligations for you or your club and no contracts. All we ask is that when we work with you, you are open about your current supplier situation.

Q. Does the club need to have a minimum turnover?

A. Our services are most suited to clubs with a minimum turnover of £100,000. This is because to secure the HQ Building the Business deals with suppliers we need to prove the value of a club to their

38 CLUB MIRROR

Q. Do I need a face to face meeting?

A. Not necessarily. A lot of the ground work can be done over the phone/email.

Q. How do I become a member?

A. Just email enquiries@hqbusiness.com, call 01753 272022 or use the form on the opposite page.

MEMBERSHIP FORM Yes I am interested in joining the no-cost, no-contract, no obligation HQ Building the Business club.

Your name: _____________________________________

HQ BUILDING THE BUSINESS

Role in club: _____________________________________ Club name and address: _____________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ Tel no: ________________________________________ Email: _________________________________________ Number of members: ______________________________ Turnover*:______________________________________

n All n Other (please list): _____________________________

Particular areas you are interested in?

_____________________________________________

*Turnover - this information is entirely confidential and is not shared with any other companies/agencies etc. It is HQ Building the Businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s measure as to how we can help you save money.

CLUB MIRROR 39

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HQ BUILDING THE BUSINESS

Legal eagle HQ BUILDING THE BUSINESS

What authorisation is required under the Licensing Act 2003 in order to consume alcohol in an external area of the premises?

No authorisation is needed in order to consume alcohol outside the area covered by a premises licence or club premises certificate.

If the external area is not included within the area covered by the licence or certificate, it will be necessary to ensure that the licence or certificate authorises the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises.

As mentioned in the previous edition of Club Mirror, it will also be necessary to confirm that there are no conditions attached to the licence or certificate which restrict the use of an external area. For example, there may be a condition which prohibits the use of a beer garden or patio after a specific time.

40 CLUB MIRROR

With a reasonable amount of fine weather being enjoyed around the country, Club Mirrorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Legal Eagle David Lucas considers a number of questions which are particularly relevant at this time of year.

What are the statutory conditions applicable to a club premises certificate which authorises the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises?

The Licensing Act 2003 contains several conditions which will apply to any club premises certificate which allows alcohol to be supplied to members for consumption in an area which is not covered by the certificate.

The conditions are: 1. The supply must be made at a time when the premises are open for the purposes of supplying alcohol, in accordance with the club premises certificate, to members of the club for consumption on the premises.

2. Any alcohol supplied for consumption off the premises must be in a sealed container.

3. Any supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises must be made to a member of the club in person.

A cricket club with a certificate that only covers the pavilion but which authorises alcohol to be supplied to members for consumption off the premises (for example, to spectators watching a game) must comply with all three conditions.

Because the conditions are very restrictive, the solution is to ensure that the area covered by the certificate includes the external areas of the ground as well as the pavilion.

If that is not currently the case, I would suggest that consideration is given to applying for a variation of the extent of the area which is covered by the club premises certificate.

Can live musical entertainment be provided in an external area without any authorisation under the Licensing Act 2003?

As a result of deregulatory changes no licence is required for the following activities:

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

To cater for increased demand in a beer garden or patio area, it is possible to provide a temporary bar servery in an external area provided that the area where the sale of alcohol takes place is authorised by the premises licence or club premises certificate.

1. A performance of unamplified live music between 8.00am and 11.00pm in any place (internal or external) on any day.

2. A performance of amplified live music between 8.00am and 11.00pm on any day on premises authorised to sell or supply alcohol for consumption on those premises, provided that the audience does not exceed 500.

3. A performance of amplified live music between 8.00am and 11.00pm on any day in a workplace that does not have a licence, provided that the audience does not exceed 500.

Unamplified live music can therefore be provided during the hours mentioned in an external area such as a beer garden or patio without any limitation on the size of the audience.

If the external area is included within the area covered by the licence or certificate and there is an authorisation to sell or supply alcohol for consumption on the premises, amplified live music can be provided during the specified hours subject to the limit on the size of the audience.

If the external area is not covered by the licence or certificate it will in all probability constitute a workplace and amplified live music may be provided during the specified hours subject to the limit on audience size.

Please remember your neighbours and monitor noise levels form any external entertainment. You last thing you would want is a complaint which may lead to a review of a premises licence or club premises certificate.

Can a temporary bar be sited in an external area?

To cater for increased demand in a beer garden or

patio area, it is possible to provide a temporary bar servery in an external area provided that the area where the sale of alcohol takes place is authorised by the premises licence or club premises certificate (as shown on the plan) includes the external area in question.

Otherwise, it would be necessary to give a temporary event notice in order to authorise the sale or supply of alcohol in an area which is not covered by a licence or certificate.

As a temporary event notice is subject to limitations a permanent variation of the licence or certificate may be a more practical solution.

CONTACT DETAILS Fraser Brown Solicitors 84 Friar Lane, Nottingham NG1 6ED e. dlucas@fraserbrown.com t. 0115 959 7139 mob. 07973 899398

CLUB MIRROR 41

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HQ BUILDING THE BUSINESS

RacingClub HQ fixtures BUILDING THE BUSINESS

Club Mirror readers and their members can take advantage of discounted raceday tickets with our new Racing Club. To enjoy a our specially negotiated rates simply select your dates and send in the booking form.

F

rom flat racing to jumps, racedays are a great day out for members. Now you can make them even more enjoyable thanks to our specially negotiated club-only prices.

HOW TO BOOK 1. Choose your raceday as listed on these pages.

2. Write a cheque for the correct amount made out to the racecourse.

3. Send the booking form and cheque made payable to the relevant racecourse to: Club Mirror Racing Club, ACP, 59/60 Thames Street, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1TX. 4. Deadline – please send the booking form and cheque at least four weeks in advance of the raceday.

Tickets will be sent out once the cheques have been processed by the racecourse.

DONCASTER RACECOURSE – FREE TICKETS Attendees at the 2017 Club Awards and Gala Dinner on 30 November, being held at Doncaster Racecourse, will receive complimentary tickets to the following day’s racing. See page 21 for booking form.

42 CLUB MIRROR

STOP PRESS Doncaster Racecourse if offering readers a 50% discount on Grandstand tickets from October to December.

Also on offer: A Grandstand package on Leger Wednesday (13 September) where £21 includes entry, a drink and a racecard.

Visit www.doncaster-racecourse.co.uk for Grandstand ticket prices pre-discount.

THIRSK Thirsk Racecourse stages 14 race meetings from April to September, making the most of the Flat racing season in scenic Yorkshire. It plays host to a recognised classic trial as well as the Thirsk Hunt Cup a valuable handicap held around the end of April that is one of the best cavalry charges of the season.

• Fri, 21 September – £10.00 • Sat, 9 September – £10.00 Did you know?

Racing in the Thirsk area has been recorded as far back as 1612 when King James I organised horse races on his land in the Hambleton Hills.

HAYDOCK PARK Situated equidistant between Liverpool and Manchester, Haydock Park is one of the finest viewing courses in Britain. Racing under both codes is of a very high standard and is well regarded by trainers looking to educate their younger horses.

WETHERBY Last year 2,500 club people attended Wetherby Races at an event run and organised by the Club & Institute Union (CIU). The Union has its own race alongside Club Awards sponsors Dransfields – the Dransfields CIU Charity Raceday Handicap Hurdle.

• Thurs, 7 September: Red Sprint Cup Festival – £9 • Fri, 8 September: Red Sprint Cup Festival – £9 • Sat, 9 September: Red Sprint Cup Festival – £12.50 • Fri 29 September: 1750 Day – £9 • Sat, 30 September: TENsational; Real Ale Day – £11 • Fri, 20 October: 1750 Day – £9 • Sat, 25 November: Betfair Chase – £12.50, • Wed 6 December: 1750 Day – £9.50 • Sat, 23 December: Tommy Whittle Chase – £11.50 • Sat, 30 December: The Last Fling – £11

• Sat, 18 November (Prices to be announced.)

Did you know?

The Romans began the Wetherby story racing Arab horses at a place called Netherby, a few miles upstream from the existing course.

Did you know?

In 1948 a 12 year-old boy rode his first winner at Haydock Park. That same jockey rode his final winner here too, 46 years later. His name? Lester Piggott.

Club Mirror Racing Club Booking Form Number of tickets required (minimum 6) __________ CHEPSTOW Chepstow offers over 30 fixtures each year. The picturesque course combines both flat and jump racing with highlights including October’s Jumps Festival and December’s Welsh Grand National. The lefthanded undulating course is a circuit of just under two miles (3,200 m) with a finishing straight of five furlongs (3,300 ft; 1,000 m), five fences on the chase course and 11 fences on a complete circuit.

Price per ticket £______

Racecourse: ___________________________________________________________________ Date of meeting: _______________________________________________________________ Cheque enclosed ( and made payable to the racecourse) for £________ Contact and club name: __________________________________________________________ Club address: __________________________________________________________________

• Thurs,14 September: Flat Racing – £10 • Tues,19 September: Flat Racing – £10 • Sat,14 October: Jump Racing – £15 • Sun,15 October: Jump Racing – £15 • Tues, 31 October: Jump Racing – £10 • Wed, 8 November: Jump Racing – £10 • Sat, 9 December: Christmas Party Raceday – £15 • Wed, 27 December: Welsh Grand National – £22 Did you know?

At a two-day meeting in 1933 Gordon Richards rode into the record books by partnering the winners of 11 consecutive Chepstow races.

____________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Postcode: ___________________ Daytime telephone number: _______________________________________________________ Email address: _________________________________________________________________ Please send this booking form plus cheque (made payable to the relevant racecourse) no later than four weeks before the meeting date to: Club Mirror Racing Club, ACP, 59-60 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1TX

CLUB MIRROR 43

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INTERVIEW: SEAN KELLY OF STORAGE HUNTERS

Interview: Sean Kelly Sean Kelly, the American presenter of popular reality TV show Storage Hunters, is in the UK for a series of live stand-up comedy dates alongside two fellow co-stars. He recently took the time to chat to Club Mirror about the tour which gets underway at Lancaster’s Grand Theatre on September 29.

F

ans of the TV reality show Storage Hunters – in which the contents of abandoned storage units are auctioned off, sight unseen – might be surprised to discover that the show’s American host Sean Kelly is not a professional auctioneer, but is actually a stand-up comedian. e 47 year old has been performing comedy for the past two decades, including headlining stints at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, and is touring Britain in the autumn with his show ‘Sean Kelly and the Stars of Storage Hunters’ alongside fellow performers T-Money and Green Mile.

“I’m doing my solo show throughout the Edinburgh Festival in August but in September I start a new 27-date tour alongside T-Money and Green Mile who are both in Storage Hunters as well as being very experienced stand-up comedians,” says Sean.

Much of Sean’s comedy act stems from his varied and unusual life which has seen him complete a combat tour in Iraq during Desert Storm, catch shoplifters as an undercover store detective in Italy and work as an auctioneer, the job which led him to come up with the concept of Storage Hunters. “e format is going to be stand-up comedy, mainly life stories from all the things I’ve done, but at the end of each show we’re going to do an auction for the Help For Heroes charity whereby we ask audience members to bring in an item from home,” he explains.

“When we’ve done this in the past, people have brought in some very interesting things. One guy even brought in a painting of his naked wife. She was at the show and even came on stage to help me auction it off!

“But the key thing about the auction is that we raise as much money as possible for Help For Heroes. I know British clubs have raised many thousands for this great cause over the years and it’s a charity that’s certainly very close to my heart.

“I’m friends with lots of guys who came home from combat duties and have struggled. Help For Heroes is one of those organisations which does so much for our ex-servicemen and ex-servicewomen, building facilities and providing long-term care.”

So why does Sean think Storage Hunters, which has run on both US and UK TV, has been such a hit with audiences? “e show is basically a treasure hunt,” he says. “I think it’s the suspense of what’s inside the storage unit and whether the bidders are going to make a profit or not that provides the hook for audiences.

Sean Kelly of Storage Hunters fame is currently touring the UK with his stand-up comedy show.

“I love the idea that people just walk away from their storage units and that for one flat price at an auction you could possibly make a lot of money depending on what’s in there. I love the gamble.

“But what really made me want to do the show was when I was doing an auction one day and two guys got into a fight while bidding over a particular lot.

“I just said to myself: ‘Wow, this is Antiques Roadshow meets Pro Wrestling!’ I just love the aggression of the bidders. If I wasn’t on the show, I’d definitely want to watch it.”

And how does he feel the US version differs with the shows filmed in the UK? “If you come across antiques in the UK, they’re proper antiques whereas the US is a relatively young country so you rarely come across the real thing,” he says.

“On one show, there was a storage unit which contained a collection of Viking jewellery and another with a load of Roman coins. You wouldn’t

find stuff like that in the States.”

And, of course, Sean’s engaging personality is a key to the show’s appeal as he presides authoritatively and good-humouredly over the auctions.

“Becoming an auctioneer was just a chance thing,” he says. “I was working as a comedian when a friend asked me to fill in for him at an auction the following week because he thought I was good at crowd work and improvisation.

“So I went along and I didn’t have any idea what I was doing but I did my best. It went well, I raised a lot of money and I fell in love with it. I went back to school to learn how to do it properly and I’ve now done all sorts of auctions – charity auctions, car auctions, real estate auctions, you name it, I’ve sold it.”

For more information on Sean Kelly’s upcoming tour, visit: www.seanbrandonkelly.com

CLUB MIRROR 45

INDUSTRY INTERVIEW – TORO

Awordwith...

Andy Brown Toro’s Andy Brown takes time out to chat with Club Mirror about fleet management, buying practices and industry trends.

At what point does it make sense to give up the ghost and investon in maintaining new? old equipment Obviously clubs will make decisions based on their own individual circumstances. What we generally find is that, for example, golf clubs which are looking to maintain the standard of their course will probably be looking at changing their machinery once it costs them more to maintain it than it’s actually worth. It does depend on the piece of equipment quently – and day-in, machines day-out. thatGreens are used mowers, more frefor example, will most likely be changed at about the four-year mark on average.

That’s the point at which the maintenance bills match the value. Fairway mowers and other equipment that is used less frequently will probably be changed around the six-year mark, although it does depend on the circumstances. Then you have specialist equipment which might be kept for longer.

There are no hard and fast rules on this but clubs will often analyse the cost of maintaining equipment against its value. If the products are owned by the club, that becomes an individual decision. If they’ve leased the product over a period of time, often that will be a five-year lease and the piece of equipment will be traded out at that point.

The critical thing is for clubs to take advice from experts in the field, whether that’s their local dealer, representatives of manufacturers, or discussions with other clubs in similar situations.

Every club is unique in the way they operate and maintain their grounds. Their business and accounting practices will be unique to themselves as well and so the decision to buy equipment and machines outright and use a CAPEX procedure or to consider leasing, is very much down to how they run their operation.

With all thenew time, investment how can clubs from manufacturers be sure that they’re buying the best machine for the job?

There are several factors at play here. Obviously manufacturers are bringing out new models or vari-

48 CLUB MIRROR

Andy Brown

that they ations machine oncan demonstration machinery see it in operation. andonclubs theirwill ownwant premises to seesoa It would be very unusual for someone to buy a machine without having tried it first. There’s a lot of advice out there from the main manufacturers as well as other industry consultants. But the majority of clubs deal directly with their dealer or distributor and they would have detailed demonstrations and operation training at the same time so they can see how the machine operates on their own premises.

What about the trade-in market?

If you look at the analogy with cars, if you were buying a new one you’d be looking to trade in your old one to offset the cost and it’s similar with machines.

Unless of course you’re buying a machine to add into your fleet. Trade-in values are important and when you are considering which machine to purchase the trade-in value of a machine after a certain time is important. Most of the manufacturers will offer a guaranteed trade-in value after three years,

four years and five years – that’s obviously dependent on the hours of use and that it’s been maintained to the manufacturer’s standards.

The second-hand market is very important in the UK. We have a lot of clubs that are not always looking to buy new equipment and often look for machinery which is coming out of another club but has good life left in it. You’ll also see machines being taken on at amateur level and being kept going for a number of years. This is very common in cricket where you’ll see amateur clubs purchasing a secondhand ride-on greens mowers, surround mowers or hand mowers to maintain their facility.

If a club has bought a machine outright and an updated version of the machine comes out, it’s not sensible to swap it out, but if that machine is on a lease then would possibly it does bebecome an increase moreinofthe anlease option. payment There butthe for often updated an existing version. machine can be swapped out What we would try to do, of course, is to advise clubs about what new models are coming in at a particular point in time and if they wanted to hang on until that particular model became available, then they short is available could periods on do in the so.the Also, market. interim machines until can the new be rented machine for

Biggest issue clubs face when choosing new equipment?

The biggest issue is cost. Greenkeepers are being asked to do more with less resources, whether that’s people or decade ourwhether focus has that’s verymachinery. much beenSo, onover productivthe last ity while ensuring that the standard of quality of cut is maintained; there’s no point in managing to cut the grass very quickly if the quality of the cut at the end of the process is not what you’re looking for.

When we design a new machine, we start with ‘what is the quality of cut that is required’ and focus on that first and then we go back and build the machine that allows you to do that in the most productive time that you can. We spend a lot of time talking to operators about what their needs are. It’s

Toro in action at Manchester United, Manchester City and the Roehampton club.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL Summary of your career pathway?

I’m Head of Sales for Europe, Middle East and Africa for all of Toro’s golf and sports businesses and municipalities. My role covers golf equipment and irrigation. I’m an Irrigation Engineer by profession and, after University, started my career in the agricultural development world, working in Egypt training irrigation technicians across the country so that they could start growing food in the desert. Then I ran my own landscape irrigation contracting and distribution business, before eventually joining Toro in 1999.

Best thing about your role?

I love the variety of the job, meeting people in different countries and cultures, all trying to do the best that they can in the world they’re involved in, whether that be golf, other sports or parks, etc.

important from both sides – they get an understanding of what we’re doing and also get to put their own fingerprints on some of the things that we’re going to do.

Common problems you witness at clubs?

The most common problem for clubs is being asked to do more with less resources. If a golf club, for example, is not developing the revenues that they need to maintain the standards or to continue to invest, then over time that will build up to a point where they will be starting to lose members, green fees and corporate business because their standards are not being maintained to the same level as their competitor golf clubs. The challenge for the course manager is to make the case. For the general manager and other people in the club the challenge is to understand where the value is and where the priorities lie.

A classic dilemma would be do you buy a new carpet for the clubhouse or do you buy a new greens mower? There comes a point when you have to do both but which is the priority is based on the current circumstances.

What do you see as the biggest revolution in equipment in recent years?

The big issues are fossil fuels, hybrid technology, the move to electric vehicles and machinery. That is happening now at a rapid pace with new models coming out every year trying to resolve the issue and we’re at the forefront of that. Labour is a huge issue for clubs with large ground and there’s a move towards robotics for autonomous mowing. These are areas that we’ve recognised over a number of years but it’s only now that the technology is start-

ing to become available, efficient and cost-effective.

There are a number of robotic solutions which are out there, such as mowers which will mow within a particular area on the same principle as those vacuum cleaners which go around a room.

There are other versions which use GPS locator systems which can be retrofit on a greens mower.

Irrigation technology is also rapidly advancing with the use of soil moisture sensors and weather stations to provide real time data to the central control system, allowing for highly detailed water management.

How can landlocked clubs with residential neighbours combat noise pollution?

This goes back to the question of technological advances in equipment. We’ve developed hand mowers which are fully powered by Ni-Cad Lithium batteries in the past five years and clubs are using them specifically to counter noise pollution if they have housing nearby and need to use them early in the morning. We’re also producing hybrid mowers.

That technology will continue to develop.

What about the issue of fleet management?

When we talk about fleet management it’s basically a strategic plan to manage the investment and maintain the product to the right standard to allow you to produce the results that you need within the restrictions you have. So, if you have a certain amount of staff and a certain amount of money you manage your fleet accordingly to match those parameters.

The key is to plan, to understand what machines you’ve got, what its lifespan is, whether you’re buying or leasing. The key is to sit down and make a detailed plan for your particular grounds.

Worst thing?

Spending too much time in front of spreadsheets and also keeping up with emails and admin, particularly when I’m travelling, which is often.

Important diary dates?

The Open Championship is always a big date in the diary as there will be a lot of industry people there to catch up with.

Going towards the end of the calendar year – October/November – when customers are thinking about what their needs are for the next year.

Sport and government?

I’d like the industry to have more communication with the government so that they understand the value that our world brings to the country.

How do you relax?

Golf, family trips abroad and gardening.

First record you ever bought?

It was the original Eagles album back in the mid-1970s.

Last live event you attended?

The Who at the Royal Albert Hall where my son was working with the sound crew.

Do you belong to any clubs?

Frilford Heath Golf Club.

CLUB MIRROR 49

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INDUSTRY INTERVIEW – HEINEKEN UK

Awordwith...

Simon Gray Simon Gray, Heineken Smart Dispense Commercial Manager takes time out to share HEINEKEN UK’s vision for clubs.

HEINEKEN works with partners, like BT Sport, to create footfall-driving opportunities built around major sporting occasions. As the only provider with screening rights for all UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League football along with its 38 Barclays Premier League matches, the BT Sport and HEINEKEN partnership gives clubs a great opportunity to encourage consumers through the door during mid-week evenings and at the weekends.

As well as televised sports, members are also looking for other reasons to come into clubs, whether it’s a quiz night, live music or a darts competition. Events like these are a great way for clubs to differentiate themselves and increase footfall.

HEINEKEN offers a range of POS and marketing support to help clubs enhance the consumer experience and encourage more people to spend more in outlet more often.

We also offer our customers expert advice on ranging targeted specifically to their business. Having the right breadth in your range allows you to maximise profits by stocking more brands that appeal to more

50 CLUB MIRROR

Simon Gray consumers at different prices. This creates greater choice and encourages people to trade up to more premium options at higher profit margins.

As the number one supplier in the beer and cider

category in the UK, HEINEKEN is able to offer clubs an extensive portfolio of leading brands. As well as the classics such as Strongbow, Foster’s and John Smith’s, we have a range of world beers (Heineken®, Amstel, Birra Moretti, Desperados, K1664, Tiger, Red Stripe and Sol), craft beers (Maltsmiths, Lagunitas and Coast to Coast) and more premium ciders such as Bulmers, Orchard Thieves, Old Mout and Blind Pig. Trading up consumers to more premium brands allows your business to develop and grow, as there is more margin to be made. With 45% of consumers readily admitting they don’t know what they’re going to order until they get to the bar, there is everything to play for. So if any of our customers aren’t sure what is the best range for their outlet, I’d strongly encourage them to contact their local HEINEKEN

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL What clubs do you belong to?

I’m a member of our local Sports and Social club – no surprise, they have SmartDispense installed, so I know they will serve great quality pint every time.

I’m also a Forest supporter and hope they can return to their European winning ways… some day!

What was your first job?

I was a free trade sales manager for John Smith’s back in the early ‘90’s, visiting clubs and pubs in North Nottinghamshire. Great times…

Best bit about your current role?

Seeing the smile on people’s faces and hearing the positive customer comments when they experience a perfectly poured SmartDispense pint for the first time.

What makes you leap out of bed in the morning?

Working in such an exciting and ever changing industry means I learn something new every day.

Biggest influence in your working life?

My first boss at John Smith’s (now retired) was a supportive and respectful manager who loved to win but also have some fun along the way. A great example and a true recipe for success.

What book are you reading?

Archangel by Robert Harris.

What is the first record you ever bought?

Denis Denis by Blondie. team to find out which of our extensive range of beers and ciders can help to grow their sales.

One of my main responsibilities is to manage the team which looks after our quality draught beer dispense system, SmartDispense – and it’s an area that I am particularly passionate about. In the UK, enjoying a draught beer is a cultural institution, but one tradition that needed updating was the old-fashioned equipment used to cool and serve the beer and cider. We developed SmartDispense to improve beer quality and drive operational efficiency. As well as guaranteeing that every pint is great quality, SmartDispense reduces waste and costs and is more environmentally friendly. In addition, the support we offer takes away some of the operational headaches of running a busy club, such as line cleaning.

The quality of the first pint is a big factor in whether a customer will choose to buy a second, so it’s crucial that clubs are offering the highest quality experience to their consumers, consistently. Clean, branded glassware and correct pour also play a vital role in creating the perfect drinking experience, helping boost sales and profits.

We’re getting brilliant feedback from our SmartDispense customers and they in turn are getting a really positive response from their customers.

People clearly enjoy the consistently cold fresh beer and cider that SmartDispense delivers; not only does it help the club’s reputation, but it means they sell more. Club management also love the fact that line cleaning is done by HEINEKEN every four weeks, saving time and hassle.

Last live event you attended?

The Retro Festival – bands from the 80s and 90s bought back fond memories.

Favourite tipple for relaxing after a hard day?

A COLD and crisp pint of Strongbow – nothing better after a long day, then maybe sip and savour a lovely pint of Heineken®.

How do you unwind/relax?

I love to go hiking with family and friends, especially if the destination involves a pint or two – Cheers!

CLUB MIRROR 51

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ASK THE EXPERTS – PERSONNEL

Look after your staff to look after your members The personal savings and insurance gap in the UK has been well publicised. It’s now clear that successive governments want to transfer some responsibility for addressing this onto employers. Bright Wealth Management Director Ian Crombleholme explores some of the issues that all employers will need to address.

L

et’s face it, when it comes to managing a club there are always too many things to do on a daily basis and not enough hours in the day.

This means that club managers may have little time to think about their own financial objectives, or protecting their club from the many risks that may derail their progress. Taking a step back to look at the longterm situation is not always a priority. As a result, planning your own and your employees’ financial security can become daunting, neglected or completely overlooked. However, help is never too far away.

In addition to looking after personal finances there are many aspects of corporate financial planning for club managers to consider. Tax mitigation, managing the club’s cash balances and protecting against various risks are all good examples, but two areas in particular are of key significance.

Employee benefits Rather than being a ‘nice to have’, an effective employee benefit strategy should be viewed as a tool to help retain key personnel and recruit new talent.

There is a wide range of options under the heading of employee benefits. You should take time to discuss these with an expert. Find out which employee benefits are appropriate for your staff.

Flexible benefits – allows employees to create a benefits package that meets their own individual needs.

This enables you to respond flexibly to the requirements of potential recruits.

Salary sacrifice arrangements – this allows employees access to tax-efficient benefits and helps reduce employers’ National Insurance costs at the same time.

Private Medical Insurance – This can help protect your employees’ health and wellbeing thereby reducing their potential absence from work when, for example, waiting for medical treatment.

Group Life, Income Protection and Critical Illness – these are important benefits that not only form a key part of a comprehensive employee benefits package but could also enable you to manage your club more effectively by: • Providing the means to support your employees

52 CLUB MIRROR

and their families financially during a particularly difficult time.

• Allowing you to recruit temporary employees.

• Providing access to a range of rehabilitation services, employee assistance programmes and absence management services that assist you to meet your statutory obligations and manage employee absence more effectively.

The Workplace Pension It’s likely you’ve seen or heard the adverts regarding the Workplace Pension, but despite all the coverage there continues to be questions and uncertainty.

In simple terms, if you employ at least one person you will need to comply with the automatic enrolment legislation. This means you have a legal obligation to offer a pension scheme. You will have to enrol certain employees into that pension scheme auto-

matically and also pay money into their pension pots.

You are also obliged to let your other employees know they can join too. It sounds straightforward but it can quickly become complicated.

The process begins once you have found or been sent your ‘staging date’ via the Pensions Regulator. At this point the clock is ticking. You will need to comply with the legislation by this date or you could receive a fine. Put into context, a small business with 20 employees that doesn’t comply on time would be fined £400, and for continued non-compliance could attract further fines of £500 a day. So to avoid incurring any penalties, planning is essential.

It is possible to set up a scheme yourself, but it’s not recommended unless you have experience in this field. The sheer number of hours that this kind of undertaking can leach from you and your team’s schedules can be quite staggering.

Five steps for automatic enrolment How to set up your Workplace Pension for automatic enrolment so you can get on with what’s important to you – running your club.

1. Find out your staging date The date you need to comply with your automatic enrolment duties is called your ‘staging date’. The Pensions Regulator will write to you telling you what your staging date is. Alternatively you can find this out yourself on their website – all you need is your company’s PAYE reference.

2. Check your payroll software is up to speed Most payroll software is compatible with automatic enrolment and will work out who you need to put into a pension scheme for you. In some cases, you may need to make some changes to your payroll software.

3. Select a pension provider This can be complex and time consuming. You can attempt to research the myriad of options yourself or alternatively appoint a Financial Adviser with automatic enrolment experience to research, recommend and set up the scheme on your behalf.

4. Communicate the changes to your employees You’ll need to tell your employees what’s happening. This includes those who don’t need to be put into the pension scheme automatically, as they’ll still have the option to join if they want to.

5. Complete your declaration of compliance with The Pensions Regulator The final step is to complete the declaration of compliance with The Pensions Regulator within five months of your staging date. You’ll find the pension scheme details you need to do this by logging into your Online Services account.

With government pushing companies to close the personal savings and insurance gap, now is the time to act.

Selecting a pension scheme, checking your payroll software, communicating to staff and finally submitting your declaration of compliance to the Pensions Regulator can all pose their own challenges and cause delays if not tackled correctly. Once you have set up the scheme for your employees there’s also the matter of ongoing maintenance to ensure the scheme remains compliant and that the underlying investments are performing to an acceptable standard.

The Workplace pension and automatic enrolment can be a challenge but with careful planning, time and the correct support it is something that all clubs should take in their stride.

Of course, many clubs will have already implemented pension/employee benefits schemes in the past. Regular reviews are recommended to ensure you are providing the best possible solutions to your employees and that the costs to the club remain competitive.

Finally, but most crucially, it is vital to ensure that your staff genuinely understand any employee benefits provision that you may operate. If employees don’t understand their employer’s provisions for pensions and insurances, it’s possible they could be wasting money on unnecessary private arrangements or be unaware of potential tax issues further down the line.

Ensuring that staff properly understand their employer’s pension/employee benefit provision will also make sure the employer gets value for money on their spend in this area. If your staff do not understand what is being provided they will not attach much value to it.

The value of the pension can go down as well as up.

The member may get back less than they invested.

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and depend on individual circumstances.

Bright Wealth Management* Bright was established in 2003 and became a Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management in 2013. As a multi-office practice, Bright Wealth Management service a client bank spread throughout the UK. “We have continued to grow by always putting people at the heart of everything we do. This is why we have confidence that our clients receive the best possible advice and support for their long-term financial futures,” says Ian. “As a proud new Corporate associate of CMAE, the Bright Wealth Management team and I extend our expertise to all members to help you achieve your financial goals.”

To discuss your financial situation, review your existing finances or to start planning the financial future of your club, feel free to contact Ian Crombleholme. t. 07796 442 669 e. i.crombleholme@brightwm.co.uk www.brightwm.co.uk

*Bright Wealth Management is a trading name of Bright FS Limited. The Partner Practice represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

CLUB MIRROR 53

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ASK THE EXPERTS – WINE

A grape way to grow sales Not a believer in the greatness of the grape? Then this one’s for you. Improving the range, quality and value for money of the wine offering is an exciting and lucrative challenge for clubs.

F

igures show that wine represents 63% of the female drink repertoire. But with the 5.3% tax increase announced in the 2013 Budget (making it a 67p increase in total since the duty escalator was introduced in 2008) it’s now more important than ever to ensure that lady members are not disappointed when they order their favourite glass of white, red or rosé.

Increasing – or improving – your wine sales is all about understanding the wine-drinking habits and occasions amongst members. These Top 10 tips provide a useful check list to make sure that the great grape pulls its weight at the club bar.

Top ten tips for selling more wine 1.

2.

Revamp your wine range. Make sure you have top selling grape varieties – sauvignon blanc and pinot grigio for white and shiraz and merlot for red – then add at least two rosés and a couple of sparkling options too.

Price your list with a reasonable cash margin rather than percentage margin to encourage trial and trading up.

3.

Keep glassware spotlessly clean and reconditioned regularly.

4.

Keep it fresh; whether that’s by using single serve bottles or wine saving systems.

5.

Store your wines properly; whites in the fridge and reds at room temperature.

6.

Display your wines throughout the club; tent cards, chalk boards, displays on or behind the bar. If your customers can’t see what’s on sale, they won’t buy.

7.

Train your frontline staff. These are the people your undecided members will turn to for advice. They should know which wines to recommend, how to serve the wine – and which wines make you the most money.

8.

Food-serving clubs should match wines to their food menu. Even if it’s steak and ale pie with a Shiraz or fish and chips with a Pinot Grigio, it shows that you care about wine.

9.

Get your regular members to help choose your ‘house’ wines or wines by the glass in a fun tasting night. If they have made the decisions, they’re far more likely to buy the wine.

10. Promote your wines. Remember, wine sales are driven by the ladies, so think Pinot Grigio, pink and bubbly! And remember those key calendar dates at the start of the year.

Whether it’s Easter or Mother’s Day, they’re all key wine occasions for members.

Cheers!

CLUB MIRROR 55

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ASK THE EXPERTS – DUE DILIGENCE

Defense of litigation claims aided by real-time solution Club Insure strives to innovate and lead the way in leisure-focused insurance products, says the company's Victoria Romero-Trigo. Here she explains the company's latest partnership.

“

The unique, real-time solution was developed to create a system that is robust enough to stand up to the evidence thresholds required in court.

W

e are pleased to announce that Club Insure is working with real time checklist systems Isitchecked. This is a brand new, real-time solution for our clients. Using Isitchecked can effectively aid the defence of litigation claims which may be let down by missed or poor quality paper checklists.

What is it?

Isitchecked is a unique, real-time checklist system with timestamp and GPS capabilities. It can be customised to any business, from a small bar or social club to an extensive hotel or catering business, and many more.

Isitchecked was developed following a failure to provide sufficient compliance and evidential value to defend against slip/trip and many other claims using paper checklists.

The unique, real-time solution was developed to create a system that is robust enough to stand up to the evidence thresholds required in court.

Developed over a two year period it was extensively tested in a fully operational venue (capacity of approximately 2000) with several thousand customers per week.

One of the actions that became apparent was that where paper checks were being completed every 30 minutes, with Isitchecked the same checks were recorded by different staff every 4-7 minutes. This was a dramatic improvement over paper.

Recent example of defence of Premises Licence In Merseyside, a series of test purchases took place where actors impersonated intoxicated customers.

Screen capture of redacted report.

This was part of the ‘Challenge 21’ programme and enabled licensing officers to identify premises which may be in breach of The Licensing Act 2003 (not selling alcohol to already intoxicated customers).

The premises used in this example was an independent bar that had, for a number of years, used a Compliance Management system to conduct staff training and had been using Isitchecked for nine months.

Not only was the test purchaser refused service by a member of staff, but a QR code had been used to record the ‘Refusals’ – a ‘refusal record’ is a requirement and is essential – Paper records can be lost, Isitchecked cannot.

This report had 46 entries in a six month period where bar staff had refused to serve alcohol as the customer appeared too intoxicated. A further 52 people were recorded by security staff at the

”

entrance as ‘refused entry’ as they appeared too intoxicated. Having spoken to the venue’s specialist licensing solicitors, they agreed that even if the test purchase had failed, the evidence of refusals would have demonstrated that the premises had a solid system in place. This would have enabled the premises to use the ‘due diligence defence’ should the license have been subject to review.

When claims are made it is crucial that personnel perform with efficiency, diligence and speed. This can play an important part in the process and the outcome. The successful defence of a claim requires that fully documented procedures are in place and are adhered to. Each company check list needs to be retained should it become appropriate to provide them as evidence.

Claimants that wish to pursue any matter have a three year period from the date of the incident in which to do so. Having checklists to hand three years on is easy with Isitchecked which is why we’re delighted to introduce it to Club Mirror readers.

CONTACT DETAILS Club Insure covers all aspects of club insurance from start to finish, with Account Handlers and Claims Managers under one roof. Club Insure Ltd are multi award winning insurance brokers specialising in tailor made insurance policies for sports and social clubs in the UK. Victoria Romero-Trigo, Director Club Insure Ltd, Romero House, 8 Airport West, Lancaster Way, Yeadon, Leeds LS19 7ZA e. Victoria.romero-trigo@club-insure.co.uk t. 0844 488 9204 www.club-insure.co.uk

CLUB MIRROR 57

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ASK THE EXPERTS – WEB ADVICE

Slow running websites, content and conundrums A website is at the forefront of your marketing; 85% of your visitors judge your website within the first 10 seconds of landing on it. Our resident IT experts explore the nature of a good website and also explain why multiple domains may not be such a good idea!

W

hat entails a good website feel? Style, content and how responsive on mobile devices it is. The real question is how do you know when your website is due a refresh?

The rise and rise of the mobile demands ever more responsive sites.

Responsiveness We have previously mentioned the impact of the initial ‘Mobilegeddon’ and the affect that it has on non-mobile-friendly sites. It’s worth considering that the total number of users researching on their mobile devices have considerably increased over the last couple of years. If your website is non-responsive not only is website visibility likely to be poor, but your visitors are immediately going to be leaving if it’s hard to use.

No tools for creating content A blog is more than a tool for pumping content out.

For many businesses it’s a way of showcasing that you are an expert in your field. So, if all your competitors are using blogs to develop a credible reputation how will that impact on your club? Having a blog is also a great resource for improving your SEO performance. Indexing your blog posts will develop more opportunity to be found through search engines.

Slow loading pages Nowadays, when you land on a website that either takes ages to load, or sometimes fails to load altogether, you instantly click off it. User experience is a pivotal aspect that makes or breaks if a visitor stays on, or clicks off a site. Page loading time therefore is closely linked with user experience! A slow loading website can be attributed to numerous factors but essentially it stems down to poor website design and image optimising.

Updating causes problems We have a number of clients that we work with who are using old content management systems (CMS).

Temperamental content management systems can cause major problems which can result in time consuming and expensive fixes. If your CMS is old or if you haven’t got a quick and efficient way of adding new content to your site the chances are your content is outdated and needs to be refreshed.

All of the above will be exacerbated if your club has gone the route of multiple domains.

58 CLUB MIRROR

Throughout the years businesses have been looking for ways to beat the search engine algorithms. In reality, this is near enough an impossible task. We get a lot of clients asking us if having multiple domains with the same content will bolster SEO rankings. The answer plain and simple is… NO! In fact, having multiple domains for your website can actually result in problems.

The defensive domains tactic The first common theme we tend to find is that businesses are worried that competitors will buy keyword orientated domains which will thereby hinder their own sites rankings. While there is some logic to this tactic, having a keyword orientated domain will not automatically result in being #1 in Google for that keyword.

Duplicated content One of the biggest problems of having multiple domains is the fact that the vast majority of content is duplicated. This doesn’t improve your SEO rankings; it actually causes an adverse effect. Google algorithm works by showing varied content on search results. So, if multiple domains encompass duplicated content only one of the sites will show up.

First page domination approach If you are a brick-and-mortar site with one physical location, having a duplicated site with the same location can cause confusion for your visitors. Similarly, Google algorithm doesn’t rank multiple sites from the same business highly as it’s considered as spam.

The only exception to multiple domains is when your business is operating in different countries, therefore you will need to have specific domains for different countries. Finally, if you are going to adopt a multiple domains approach, you will have to double your SEO input. A new domain tends to be significantly harder to rank highly within a shorter period of time.

CONTACT DETAILS If your website is struggling to perform well on search engines and you are running out of ideas on what you can do to improve this, get in touch with the friendly Larrytech team to talk it through.

Larrytech Ltd 44 Newton Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1RU • t. 01892 888 011 • www.larrytech.com

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ASK THE EXPERTS – APPS

Seven top tips for App Design Featuring in the top 4 trends at the recent CMAA World Conference in Orlando, apps are becoming one of 2017’s hottest properties. This is particularly the case for golf clubs, explains Jenni Biggs.

A

pps are serious business tools capable of generating income, repeat business, golfer loyalty and converting causal interest into a fully engaged member. By following these seven top tips the smart, business savvy GMs will be on course to creating the app that is right for their business.

1. What do you want the app to do?

Apps can be used to both enhance user experience and to generate income which means the balance will be tipped upon how your golf business operates.

This determines the focus: increased experience versus increased income. Will you focus more on the member experience or a mix of great golfing with the ability to collect usable data and promote events, special offers, etc?

2. Select your app type Do you need a native, hybrid or web app? Native apps are specially coded to work on a phone’s operating system and because of this they are the most reliable, stable and flexible to work with. Your app will have its own set of coding for each platform, can access all features of the phone and work offline.

Web apps are simply an app that pulls data directly from your website and has a ‘wrapper’ put around it so it can be put on the respective stores. Functions are limited, but you can have add-ons like push notification modules. (These will not work off-line.)

Hybrid apps are essentially web apps with more functionality. However, because they have a one size fits all approach they tend to be basic. Again, like the web apps, modules can be written to perform certain tasks. These have the ability to hold already downloaded data, but most areas of a hybrid will not work without a signal. (Be careful as sometimes unscrupulous developers pass hybrids off as native apps.)

Consider both function and connectivity. Native apps are superior, but if your app only requires basic functionality and your end users have good connectivity, then a hybrid might fit the bill.

3. Image is everything Apps are a reflection of your business and it will only look as good as your graphics. You would never throw a brochure or website together using any old images and content; neither should you do so with an app.

4. Don’t forget your members!

Golden rule – always remember the end user. You might want to have an app that generates income for your club or retail business, but if there is no incentive for them to download it why would they? Ask yourself if you would personally download and consistently use the app and why?

5. Don’t popup everywhere There are a few different ways to advertise on your

app and a method that has got people turning off in their droves is popup adverting. It can be tempting to get your app made for free ( with the cost being covered by the app supplier’s own sponsors), but beware. Often the most common placement of these adverts is where the golfers will be using it most – the course guide and scorecard - which means that they are subjected to waiting for the popup to go at every hole.

6. Speak directly to your users – for their benefit (and yours!)

This is the smart way to market and advertise your club. Most members want to hear from you and communication options range from direct selling, push notifications, promotions, suggestive selling, events and fixture dates. Include some thought into app-only offers.

7. Into the future and beyond Consider future usage. Ensuring you have the correct type of app and one that can be added onto can save your club a lot of time and money in the long run.

Finally, remember that an app is a part of your overall image. Just like any marketing tool, it needs to look the part as well as service its purpose. Apps can look as amazing or a functional as you wish.

Make an app that you can be proud of for years to come.

CLUB MIRROR 59

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Club Law and ement ag an M

A follow up to the popular Club Law and Management hardback comes a book dedicated to frequently asked Questions and Answers

Questions and Answers Philip R Smith &

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From our day to day experience of assisting Clubs we have compiled the essential reference guide to the many questions that Clubs nd themselves asking. With sections of Membership issues, Committees and Committee Meetings, Licensing issues, Finance and Taxation, Employment, Gambling and General Meetings we hope this will prove an invaluable reference guide to Club Committees throughout the UK. Each question is one that has been genuinely raised by a Club and we hope that the answers which are set out within this book, grouped together in speci c subject areas, prove to be a valuable addition to any Club Committee and as an aide to hard working Of cers and Committee Members.

Order online at www.toryclubs.co.uk, phone 0207 222 0843 or email assistance@ toryclubs.co.uk. Clubs wishing to pay by credit or debit card should order online or phone so that we can process payment.

For more information, contact us today and quote CLUB to arrange a free site visit to discuss your requirements.

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sales@pubfurnitureuk.co.u

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TC/2 From £38.90 Wood Seat

WT/13 £64.90

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Call Our Sales Team Now For Full Brochure and Special Offers or View Our Website

PO/7 £89.90

Ridge bases From £37.00

www.trentfurniture.co.uk

OF/7A £39.90

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