BRISTOL & DISTRICT CHESS LEAGUE

Treasurer's Report for Season 1999/00

The Statement of Income & Expenditure for the year to 30 April 2000 shows that the League has recorded a surplus of £91 on its activities.

Income

The number of teams entering the League fell from 49 to 46 and this is of course reflected in a reduction in income from registration fees; down by £54 compared to the previous season. For the record, the number of teams entering the League has fallen by sixteen since season 1995/96; equivalent to a loss of income of some £300 per season. Now that we have more or less exhausted the stock of books for sale, income from failed adjudications & fines has assumed increasing importance.

Expenditure

The expenses of the League's main officers fell by £100 and this was attributable principally to the General & Match Secretaries. I do not know how these gentlemen achieved this considerable feat but it illustrates again that the League's main support administration is run on little more than a shoestring. Trophy costs this season were low (engraving only) but we are on notice that additional funds will need to be invested during the next financial year to cover the cost of new plinths on a number of trophies.

4NCL Teams & Bristol Chess Times

Last year, I reported that the LMC had concluded that the League would be unable to continue to provide financial support at the level seen during season 98/99 given the forecast fall in income between the two years. Accordingly, direct support this season was limited to one entry fee of £200 and, of course, the team manager's expenses (although, in the event, no expenses were claimed).

Members may recall that sponsorship of the BCT had enabled additional funds to be released in recent seasons to support 4NCL activities subject to a minimum of £400 of subscribers' funds being maintained to cover unearned subscriptions. This arrangement meant that £550 was provided for seasons 97-99, for example. This sponsorship ceased during 99/00 and, as a result, the LMC revisited the BCT funding arrangements. It was decided that: (a) the League would contribute £100 per season towards the cost of the magazines provided to member clubs; & (b) the minimum fund required to cover unearned subscriptions of the individual subscribers would be reset at £225. These revised arrangements freed up sufficient funds to cover the second team entry fee of £200 and for £149 to be transferred to the 4NCL account in preparation for next season.

Looking Ahead

The League currently has cash reserves of just over £2000 (excluding BCT & 4NCL funds); a considerable comfort against a background of falling income which will make a break-even position harder to achieve next season. Ideally, we should of course seek to cover our costs on a season by season basis.

Martyn Sellars (Treasurer). 25 May 2000