Consett & District Sunday League

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LEAGUE MEETINGS

The Computer Centre Consett & District Sunday League

League Meeting

Thursday 1st May 2008 at Delves WMC, Consett

Chairman Selwyn Heslop opened the meeting at 8.55pm, and welcomed clubs, though several were missing due to games tonight. Apologies were received from Horse & Groom, Witton Gilbert WMC, Scotch Arms, Black Horse and Ball Alley, Freemasons, Stanley Royal, Newton Hall, Stateside, and Quebec Rangers.

A roll call was held and a further four clubs were absent: South Moor Sports, Chopwell Hotel, Medomsley Miners Arms and Dipton WMC. Any who don't show by the end of the meeting will be fined as per league rule.

The minutes of the previous meeting on 10th April were read and agreed to be a true record.

Matters arising

(i) The Chairman said an introduction to coaching Charter Standard workshop is being held at Billingham next month. Anyone interested should contact DFA by 9th June. It is not known at the moment how many of our clubs still have to attend a workshop as part of their CS obligations, but seven of those present admitted they have not done one yet. It was suggested we ask DFA to hold one in the Consett or Stanley area as soon as possible, and the Chairman agreed to do this.

Correspondence

(i) Newton Hall have now tendered their resignation in writing, though they are still on a Form 50 from DFA for an unpaid fine.

(ii) The league was allocated two £60 tickets for the FA Cup Final, and as no one else has asked for them they will be used by Fixtures Secretary Norman Smith.

(iii) Confirmation has been received that Delves Club is available for our AGM on Sunday, 8th June, and the big room will be open at 10am for a 10.30am start. Any proposed rule changes must be received in writing by the Secretary by Saturday, 3rd May, which is 28 days' notice, as required in league rules. One rule which the league intends to introduce next season is the compulsory wearing by the captain of an armband, to identify him to the referee. The league will be supplying these at no expense to clubs, and it will bring us in line with several other leagues in the county.

(iv) A cheque for £1,355.34 has been sent to DFA, to affiliate the league, its cups and 34 clubs for next season. Clubs were reminded they should submit their Form A, cash statement and County Cup entry form to DFA by 1st July.

(v) Three players have recently been removed from the banned list after paying money owed to the league: Richard Waugh and Chris Muncaster from South Moor Excelsior, and Carl Allaker from Burnhope Ivy Leaf.

(vi) A list of suspended players was read out, and clubs were reminded these are updated weekly on our website. A couple have come through for next season, but these will not be added until this season is over.

(vii) This year's Durham Challenge Cup Final will be held at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday, 6th May, as it involves Sunderland Reserves v Gateshead. Admission is £5 and £2 for children/OAPs. We have a cup final the same night, the Harkness Trophy between Consett Black Horse and Oxhill Central, and further finals on 8th, 13th and 15th May, all at Consett AFC.

(viii) All clubs should have received a letter or e-mail in the past couple of days outlining any fines, fees or outstanding monthly payments which are owed. Anyone who hasn't received notification should see Treasurer Gary Welford at the end of the meeting. He asked clubs to pay within seven days, as he wants to close the accounts and get them audited for the AGM.

Fixtures, Registrations & Result Sheets

(i) Mr Smith read out a list of the remaining fixtures and referees.

(ii) Mr Heslop asked all clubs to see him at the end of the meeting to pick up a list of their registered players. This would act as their retained list for next season, and should be returned to him with any amendments by 1st June at the latest. It includes space for clubs to indicate if a player's registration is being held due to debts. If any clubs don't return their list by the deadline, which is a week before the AGM, it will be presumed all their players are released and free to sign for anyone.

(iii) Four result sheets are outstanding, from Miners Arms v Tantobie on 3rd April, Craghead on 6th April and Chelmsford on 24th April; and Stateside v Jolly Drovers on 13th April. The management committee ruled tonight that the clubs will be fined for failing to comply with a league directive in respect of the three long-overdue ones, as they have had several reminders about them.

Treasurer's Report

Mr Welford said our current bank balance is £5,572.91, though the affiliation fees and various end-of-season awards are to come out of that. Only six monthly payments are outstanding, which is not bad, and he would be chasing these up in the next week.

Other Business

(i) The Chairman reminded clubs that any names changes or new shirt sponsors must be notified to DFA by 15th July at the latest, and name changes to the league by the AGM. The Secretary said he would be sending out club details forms with the AGM agendas, and requesting their return at the AGM for compilation of 2008/9's handbook.

(ii) Clubs were asked for any nominations for the David Cunningham Memorial Trophy tonight, as the top table need to pick a winner.

(iii) There was no business to report from our Durham FA representatives, or the Referees' Association.

(iv) The monthly draw was held, with the following results: 1st Prize (£50), No 32, Newton Hall; 2nd Prize (£30), No 30 Delves Club; 3rd Prize (£20), No 15, Consett AK Leisure; 4th Prize (£15), No 12, Consett Top Club; 5th Prize (£10), No 28, Annfield Plain Cricket Club; 6th Prize (£5), No 36 Consett Stateside; 7th Prize (£5), No 11, Ebchester Chelmsford. Winners were asked to see the Treasurer at the end of the meeting.

(v) The Chairman said he had some leaflets promoting Jim McNally's race nights, which are a useful fundraiser. Anyone interested should see him.

(vi) Clubs were reminded that the next meeting is the AGM, at 10.30am on Sunday, 8th June, at Delves Club.

There was no other business and the meeting was closed at 9.25pm.

Chairman: Secretary:

The Computer Centre Consett & District Sunday League

League Meeting

Thursday 10th April 2008 at Delves WMC, Consett

Chairman Selwyn Heslop opened the meeting at 8.50pm and welcomed clubs, plus our guest, referee Martin Bunting. Apologies were received from Ray Griffiths, Ronnie Coleman and Billy Parkin, plus Witton Gilbert WMC, Lintz Celtic, Consett Fountain and Blackhall Mill. A roll call was held and two clubs, Chopwell Hotel and Newton Hall, were absent. If they don't turn up by the end of the meeting they will be fined as per league rule.

Mr Heslop said Newton Hall had verbally resigned after completing their fixtures, but had not confirmed this in writing, and still had to fulfil their obligations such as attending meetings and paying fines. He asked if any other clubs intended to resign, and there were none.

However, Newton Hall and Consett Stateside are on Form 50s from Durham FA, and are banned until they had paid outstanding fines.

The minutes of the previous meeting on 13th March were read and agreed to be a true record. There were no matters arising.

Correspondence

(i) The Chairman read out a report from referee David Toor on the Beamish & East Stanley v Stanley Royal game, in which he was extremely complimentary to both sets of players, officials and spectators. Mr Heslop said this was the sort of report he liked receiving, and urged clubs to keep it up.

(ii) Mr Heslop said clubs should have received a letter from Durham FA about nominations for the Charter Standard, and anyone who hadn't could get copies from him.

(iii) The league had been invited to send two representatives to Durham FA's 125th anniversary dinner at Durham County Cricket Club on 24th May, and it had been agreed by the management committee that the Chairman and Secretary should attend.

(iv) Durham FA had supplied four footballs free of charge to the league and charity cups for use in our finals.

(v) A letter from the FA offered up to six complimentary tickets for the FA Carlsberg Sunday Cup Final between Coundon Conservative Club and Hetton Lyons Cricket Club at Liverpool FC on 27th April. We had accepted, and requested more if available.

(vi) David Unsworth of Newton Hall has been informed his conduct within our league is being monitored for the remainder of this season and all of 2008/9 as a result of concerns raised in a referee's report on a recent sending-off. However, he has subsequently been banned sine die by DFA for non-payment of his fine.

(vii) South Moor Sports and Quebec Rangers were both fined £20 and had three points deducted by the management committee last month for fielding ineligible players. Both were players who had signed from other clubs, but had not had transfers agreed.

(viii) The Secretary gave details of a Charter Standard workshop, 'marketing your club', at DFA from 7pm-9pm on Tuesday, 15th April. Clubs were reminded they need to attend one workshop in their first 12 months as a CS club, and anyone who has not done so should contact the development office tomorrow to secure a place. The Chairman said he had heard about a scheme which allowed CS clubs to claim a grant to help with referees' fees, and would be seeking more details.

(ix) The Durham FA affiliation fees are due by 30th April, and Secretary/Treasurer Gary Welford said he would be re-affiliating everyone except Newton Hall.

Fixtures, Transfers & Registrations

(i) Fixtures Secretary Norman Smith gave out fixtures for the next two weeks, and said more would be done once the results of various cup ties are known. We have been offered six dates in May by Consett AFC for our four cup finals, but the only one we can arrange at present is the Harkness Trophy between Consett Black Horse and Oxhill Central, which will be on Tuesday, 6th May. The clubs were asked to get their squad lists to the Secretary by the weekend so he can prepare the programme.

Mr Smith said the Stanley Aged Miners' Cup is likely to be on 13th or 15th May, as the last semi-final can't be fitted in until the 11th. He warned clubs that if any cup games are postponed from now on due to ground conditions, the fixtures will have to reversed if the away side's pitch is available, or played on another field, as directed by himself or the Chairman.

(ii) Mr Heslop read out a list of transfers agreed before the deadline closed: 2nd March, David Oyston (Freemasons to Scotch Arms); 10th March, David Lanning (Burton House to Lintz Celtic); 13th March, James Dodds and Marc Graham (both Beamish & East Stanley to Annfield Plain Cricket Club), Robert Hall (Freemasons to Quebec); 14th March, David Sewell (Chelmsford to Horse & Groom - 2nd transfer), and Sean Glendinning (Oxhill to Station Ex).

(iii) The Chairman said an incident had occurred in the league where someone playing under a false name had been booked, and the management committee had decided tonight that it should be brought to the attention of Durham FA. The player and club would be dealt with after DFA had finished with them, and charged with bringing the league into disrepute. He warned this could mean a points deduction or expulsion from the league.

(iv) Mr Heslop said result sheets are outstanding from Newton Hall v Quebec and Whitehills v South Moor Sports on 30th March, and Jolly Drovers v Craghead on 1st April. He needed them urgently to bring league records up to date. Two queries regarding Stanley Aged Miners' Cup ties were cleared up.

(v) Several clubs have been fined recently for not ringing in results within an hour of the final whistle, and the Chairman urged them to get their act together.

Treasurer's Report

Mr Welford said the league was in a healthy financial position, with a current balance of £5,812.16, though a four-figure sum would be due shortly for our DFA affiliation fees. Most, if not all clubs, are up to date with their monthly payments, and he will be sitting down in the next week and checking any arrears. Also, clubs will receive a list of any money owed before the next meeting, which should be paid then so the accounts can be closed and audited in time for the AGM.

Other Business

(i) The monthly draw was held, with the following results: 1st Prize (£50), No 9, Annfield Plain Demi; 2nd Prize (£30), No 22, Witton Gilbert WMC; 3rd Prize (£20), No 33, Whitehills Pub; 4th Prize (£15), No 34, Craghead John's Castle Inn; 5th Prize (£10), No 30, Delves WMC; 6th Prize (£5), No 13, Oxhill Central; 7th Prize (£5), No 10, Newfield Inn. Winners were asked to see the Treasurer at the end of the meeting.

(ii) The venue, date and time of the next meeting were set: Delves WMC on Thursday, 1st May, management committee at 7.30pm and main meeting at 8.30pm.

There was no further business, and the meeting was closed at 9.15pm.

Chairman: Secretary:

The Computer Centre Consett & District Sunday League

League Meeting

Thursday 13th March 2008 at Delves WMC, Consett

Chairman Selwyn Heslop opened the meeting at 8.55pm and welcomed clubs, our President Ray Griffiths and referees' representative Martin Bunting. Apologies were received from DFA Vice-President Ronnie Coleman, South Moor Sports FC and Jolly Drovers FC. A roll call was held and one club, Consett Station Ex-Juniors, were absent. If they don't turn up by the end of the meeting they will be fined as per league rule.

Mr Heslop said he had caught up with result sheets and referees' reports, and was pleased to say nine reports had recently complimented clubs on their conduct, and long may it continue. However, one particularly poor piece of administration had almost seen a very experienced referee banned by Durham FA for not reporting cautions, after the clubs filled the score in the cautions box, when in fact no one had been booked.

The minutes of the previous meeting on 7th February were read and agreed to be a true record.

Matters arising

(i) Stanley Royal, our last representatives in the Durham Sunday Cup, lost 2-0 at Stockton in the semi-final. They were wished better luck next year.

Correspondence

(i) New contact numbers were given for Annfield Plain Cricket Club, Paul Moor on (07786) 016083 or Michael Bowden on (07963) 412465.

(ii) Jolly Drovers requested no fixture on 16th March. This had been agreed.

(iii) A list of current suspensions was read out, and clubs were reminded these are updated on the website every Monday.

(iv) Durham FA has a supply of Mitre matchballs for £16.50 each. Clubs can buy an unlimited amount, but must ring first to reserve them.

(v) PG Publications had offered to supply the factfiles which we provide free to clubs for the much-reduced price of £2.95 (usually £9.95). It was agreed to order some.

(vi) Durham FA has suspended Darren Hewitson from all refereeing activities until he has appeared before the County FA Referees' Committee.

(vii) Durham FA has appointed two new officials: Jeffrey Russell is referees' development officer, and Richard Hughes is county welfare officer. Mr Russell has already attended a meeting of North West Durham Referees' Society, and has been invited to a future league meeting.

(viii) Durham FA asked for referees' marks from 1st March 2007 to 29th February 2008, and these had been supplied by Mr Heslop. He said they were very impressive, and every referee in the league had a higher average than last season.

(ix) A letter was read out which Tommy Duffy of Annfield Plain Demi had sent to Durham FA about the unfairness of players being punished twice for the same disciplinary offence. It had been passed on to the FA in London, and a reply was awaited. The Secretary said this showed DFA took properly-worded cases of perceived injustice seriously, and would back clubs if it thought appropriate.

(x) Clubs were asked to make John Hurst their main contact for Consett Black Horse FC until further notice, on (07932) 715383.

Fixtures, Registrations & Transfers

(i) Fixtures Secretary Norman Smith reported that our current sponsor Sean Dixon was discontinuing The Computer Centre's sponsorship of the league next season, but his new business, GT Electrics, would be taking over. All clubs received a leaflet with their fixtures advertising its services, and are encouraged to use them.

(ii) A list of changes was read out to fixtures and referees. Mr Smith said he was issuing only two weeks' fixtures, as many postponed cup games would have to be rearranged. Even before the possible cancellation of any more, the last semi-final won't be played until May 11. He warned first division teams that some will have to play Tuesdays and Thursdays once the midweek games start, which is April 1. Also, extra games could be added to the fixtures if referees become available.

(iii) A list of transfers agreed in the last two months was read out, and clubs were reminded that the deadline is tomorrow, and any forms received after 6pm on that date will not be sanctioned.

(iv) Lintz Celtic FC were told they need to submit a registration form as well as a transfer form for David Lanning, and the same applied to Oxhill Central FC for Shaun Glendinning. Both should not play until five days after the forms have been received.

(v) Mr Heslop reminded everyone that the deadline for registering new players is 6pm on 14th April.

Treasurer's Report

Treasurer Gary Welford reported that the league's bank balance stood at £4,940.02, plus about £700 in uncashed cheques. However, the Durham FA affiliations for 2008/9 are due by the end of April, so we need to know at next month's meeting if any clubs are not continuing next season. Most clubs are up to date with their monthly payments, and any who are in arrears will receive a call before the April meeting asking them to catch up, as Mr Welford will be starting to finalise the accounts for the season shortly after that.

Other Business

(i) The monthly draw was held, with the following results: 1st Prize (£50), No 30, Delves WMC; 2nd Prize (£30), No 4, Horse & Groom; 3rd Prize (£20), No 7, Jolly Drovers; 4th Prize (£15), No 8, Medomsley Miners Arms; 5th Prize (£10), No 16, Hamsteels Inn; 6th Prize (£5), No 11, Ebchester Chelmsford; 7th Prize (£5), No 36, Consett Stateside.

(ii) The date and time of the next meeting were set, Thursday, 10th April, at Delves WMC, with the management committee at 7.30pm and main meeting at 8.30pm.

(iii) The Chairman said that subject to confirmation of availability of the venue, the AGM would be on the first Sunday in June. Any proposed amendments to league rules should be in by the beginning of May at the latest, but preferably at the April meeting, so clubs have plenty of time to consider them.

(iv) Finally, any clubs who have not brought back league trophies as requested will be fined as per league rule.

There was no further business and the meeting was closed at 9.25pm.

Chairman: Secretary:

The Computer Centre Consett & District Sunday League

League Meeting

Thursday 7th February 2008 at Delves WMC, Consett

Chairman Selwyn Heslop opened the meeting at 8.40pm and welcomed clubs, plus referee Martin Bunting, attending in place of John Lee.

A roll call was held and there were two apologies for absence, from Burton House and Newton Hall. One club was absent, Consett Black Horse, and it was agreed that if they didn't turn up by the end of the meeting they would be fined as per league rule.

The minutes of the previous meeting on 10th January were read and agreed to ne a true record. There were no matters arising.

Correspondence

(i) The league's trophy insurance has been renewed with ASA Insurance at a cost of £66.74.

(ii) Four players who were suspended from the league for owing money have now paid: Gary Cruddas and Chris Muncaster (both South Moor Excelsior), Andrew Coulthard (Duke of Wellington) and Colin Pilcher (Leadgate Coach & Horses).

(iii) The league applied to Durham FA for Carling Cup Final and FA Cup Final tickets. No Carling Cup tickets were available, due to the small allocation received, but we remain hopeful about FA Cup tickets.

(iv) The draw for the semi-finals of the Durham Sunday Cup had seen the league's last survivors Stanley Royal given another away draw, against the winners of the Coundon Conservatives v Stockton Hardwick Social Club tie. They were wished luck from everyone connected with the league.

(v) Durham FA is again making long-service awards to any league or club official with 30 years' unbroken service. Anyone who wishes to nominate someone should contact the Secretary for a nomination form. The deadline is March 31.

(vi) Details of coaching and first aid courses being held at Stanley School of Technology were read out. Clubs were also reminded that they had to attend a DFA course or workshop by the end of May as part of their Charter Standard obligations.

(vii) A list of current suspensions was read out. Clubs were reminded that these are updated weekly on our website, and the Secretary or Chairman should be contacted if there are any queries.

Fixtures, Transfers & Registrations

(i) Fixtures Secretary Norman Smith read out a list of changes to fixtures and referees, and warned that more games may have to be changed if cup ties are postponed. He said we have a problem getting dates for our finals due to Consett AFC's backlog of home fixtures, and would have to try to be ready to play games at short notice.

(ii) The Chairman said he'd left his list of recent transfers at home, but reminded clubs that the deadline is 14th March.

(iii) Mr Heslop said he received no registration form for Andrew Taylor of the Miners Arms, who had played for them on 13th January, but been released in July 2007. He asked for a registration form within seven days. Any clubs not supplying forms for newly-registered players within five days of a fixture in which they play will, from now on, be reported to the management committee for fielding an ineligible player.

(iv) The Miners Arms were asked to sort out two missing result sheets from November, for games v South Moor Sports in the Consett Charity Cup and Newfield Inn in the Stanley Aged Miners Cup. They have 10 days to get them to him, or face possible sanctions from the management committee.

(v) Several clubs are at or have passed the 30-player registration limit, and were asked to not sign anyone else/remove players from their retained list.

(vi) The Chairman said the management committee had tonight imposed a £20 fine and three-point deduction on the Jolly Drovers, who had ignored repeated reminders about an outstanding registration form for Scott Urwin, who had played for them on 4th November.

Treasurer's Report

Treasurer Gary Welford said the league's bank balance remains healthy, at £4,747.68, with all major bills paid. One or two clubs have a monthly payment or two outstanding, but the majority are up to date.

Other Business

(i) The Chairman said he'd recently had a meeting with Derwentside District Council, where its postponements policy had again been brought up. For the rest of the season the council will decide whether fields are fit up to Friday lunchtime, after which it is up to either a local referee called in by a club or league official, or the match referee. The idea has been mooted for next season of having a panel of referees, whose members would be responsible for inspecting pitches in a certain area. Clubs were reminded that a referee's decision on whether a pitch is playable is final, and any clubs reported for harassing or intimidating an official in an effort to influence his decision will be hammered by the league.

(ii) Mr Heslop had also had a meeting with referees, and said they wanted to give clubs a pat on the back, as, with one or two exceptions, they are enjoying the games. Inadequate pitch markings are still a bit of a problem, as is non-confirmation of fixtures, and clubs were urged to try to improve in these areas. Clubs were reminded that it is the referee's responsibility to add cautions or sendings off to a teamsheet before he signs it, as this information is now passed on to Durham FA, which is checking that all disciplinary matters are reported. Refs have been asked to put a cross through any blank section on the teamsheet, so if subs are not named when they are given the teamsheet, they will not be allowed. Finally, refs have asked that teams' captains be identified by an armband, and the Chairman said he would be looking to make this a league rule next season. If it is adopted, the league has agreed to buy two armbands for each club.

(iii) The monthly draw was held, with the following results: 1st prize (£50): No 16, Hamsteels Inn; 2nd prize (£30): No 20, Consett Station Ex-Juniors; 3rd prize (£20), No 9, Annfield Plain Demi; 4th prize (£15), No 8, Medomsley Miners Arms; 5th prize (£10), No 33 Newton Hall; 6th prize (£5), No 4, Castleside Horse & Groom; 7th prize (£5), No 5, Consett Fountain.

(iv) The date and time of the next meeting were set: Thursday, 13th march, at Delves WMC. Managemtn meeting 7.30pm, main meeting 8.30pm.

There was no further business and the meeting was closed at 9.10pm.

Chairman: Secretary:

The Computer Centre Consett & District Sunday League

League Meeting

Thursday 10th January 2008 at Delves WMC, Consett

Chairman Selwyn Heslop opened the meeting at 8.40pm and welcomed clubs, plus our President Ray Griffiths and DFA Vice-President Ronnie Coleman. There were no apologies.

A roll call was held and one club was missing, Beamish & East Stanley, who did turn up during the meeting.

The minutes of the previous meeting on 6th December were read and agreed to be a true record.

Matters Arising

(i) The Chairman reminded clubs that holders of all league trophies and shields (except the Division One champions trophy) had been asked to return them tonight so they can be assessed and updated. Any clubs failing to do so would be fined as per league rule.

Correspondence

(i) Secretary Gary Welford said he had sent out letters to 29 of our 35 clubs containing fines for the first half of the season. Another six had been fined just once, and a further six twice. A couple of clubs had fined £20 for one teamsheet, as every incorrect element now costs £5, not just an incorrect sheet.

(ii) DFA had been informed of South Moor Excelsior's resignation, and a list was read out of their players, who are now banned from all football until they had paid their share of the club's debt, which is £22. Clubs were asked if anyone had tried to sign Glenn Ferry or Conor Cruddas, as DFA had received registration forms for them. No one had.

(iii) DFA asked us to provide details of cautions and sendings-off from our result sheets, and the Chairman had agreed to do this. It is so DFA can check referees are sending disciplinary offences in.

(iv) Insurance claim forms have recently been sent to two injured players, but one will probably not receive a pay-out, as his injury happened three months ago, and his club had only recently informed him he was covered. Clubs were reminded that claims to the insurance company and DFA Benevolent Fund should be made within 28 days.

(v) Several new contact numbers were read out. New referee David Strother is on (01207) 271915 (h) and (07722) 133199 (m). Referee Robbie Snowball has a new mobile, (07887) 860273.

Annfield Plain Demi secretary Tommy Duffy has a new mobile number, (07946) 770969, as have Stanley Ball Alley secretary Paul Whittingham, (07527) 310167, and Newfield Inn assistant secretary Tracy Cavagan, (07xxx) xxxxxx.

(vi) From January 21st all contact with Consett AK Leisure should be with assistant secretary Dean Jones, on the number in the handbook.

(vii) Three players have had their registrations withdrawn indefintely by the league: Andrew Dodds (Stateside), Ashley Bridge (Hamsteels) and Alan Close(money owed by Stanley Blue Star Prince of Wales).

(viii) A list of current suspensions was read out, and clubs were reminded that these are updated weekly on our website.

(iv) An online firm called footballs4u was offering a full kit for £160. Details were available on their website at www.footballs4u.co.uk if anyone was interested.

Treasurer's Report

Treasurer Gary Welford reported that the league's finances were healthy, with the bank balance currently standing at £3,841.41, with lots of fines to come in tonight. One major bill had been paid, £1,700 to JustSport for our medals for the season.

Fixtures, Registrations & Transfers

(i) Fixtures Secretary Norman Smith handed out new fixtures, and read out a list of changes to existing ones.

(ii) Registrations Secretary Selwyn Heslop read out a list of transfers agreed since the November meeting. Clubs were reminded that the deadline for transfers in March 14th, and April 14th for signing unattached players. A list was read out of clubs who have reached or are nearing the 30-player limit.

(iii) Mr Heslop asked who had signed a player called John Christer, as it was not clear on the registration form. Jolly Drovers said he was theirs. They were also asked to supply a form for an S.Irwin within seven days, as he had played for them on November 4th, and no form had yet been received. Failure to comply would see them brought before the management committee.

(iv) Newton Hall were reminded about a registration form for a player called Christopher Roy. They said his name was Chris Durham, and would see Mr Heslop after the meeting.

(v) Horse & Groom and Ball Alley were asked to clarify a teamsheet from December 9th on which they both named a player twice.

Other Business

(i) The monthly draws for December and January were held, with the following results:

December: 1st prize (£50), No 18, Burton House; 2nd Prize (£30): No 7, Jolly Drovers; 3rd Prize (£20), No 16, Hamsteels Inn; 4th Prize (£15): No 21, Dipton WMC; 5th Prize (£10): No 20, Consett Station Ex-Juniors; 6th Prize (£5): No 32, Newton Hall; 7th Prize (£5): No 26, Stanley Ball Alley.

January: 1st prize (£50), No 13, Oxhill Central; 2nd Prize (£30): No 9, Annfield Plain Demi; 3rd Prize (£20), No 15, Consett AK Leisure; 4th Prize (£15): No 29, Stanley Royal; 5th Prize (£10): No 32, Newton Hall; 6th Prize (£5): No 22, Witton Gilbert WMC; 7th Prize (£5): No 8, Medomsley Miners Arms.

(ii) Clubs were reminded that Derwentside District Council had the say on calling off games up to 5pm on a Friday, and between then and 7pm on a Saturday it was up to league officials. On the day of the game it was up to the match referee, or a local ref if clubs chose to call one out.

(iii) The date and time of the next meeting were set: Thursday, 7th February at Delves WMC, with the management committee at 7.30pm and main meeting at 8.30pm.

There was no other business and the meeting was closed at 9.20pm.

Chairman: Secretary:

The Computer Centre Consett & District Sunday League

League Meeting

Thursday 6th December 2007 at Delves WMC, Consett

Chairman Selwyn Heslop opened the meeting at 8.35pm and welcomed clubs, plus President Ray Griffiths, DFA Vice-President Ronnie Coleman and referees' representatives Phil Johnston and Martin Bunting. Apologies were received and accepted from Vice-Chairman Bill Parkin, Fixtures Secretary Norman Smith (who was on holiday), Blackhall Mill and Castleside Horse & Groom.

A roll call was held and one club were absent, Consett Freemasons, though they did turn up during the course of the meeting.

The Chairman said that since the last meeting we have had a resignation from South Moor Excelsior, who cited financial problems and lack of commitment among players. Their results have been removed, and a new league table circulated. All their players will be reported to DFA and suspended until they have paid their share of debts owed.

Mr Heslop asked clubs to pay attention during meetings, as he is sick of getting phone called afterwards from clubs who have not been listening.

The minutes of the previous meeting on 8th November were published on our website,

Matters Arising

(i) Secretary Gary Welford said he had not written to Durham FA asking for Charter Standard workshops to be routinely held closer to home, as several are organised at Chester-le-Street, which most clubs should be able to get to. However, if 10-15 clubs express an interest in a particular workshop, we could ask Andy Brown if a session could be organised in Consett or Stanley.

Correspondence

(i) A new contact number was read out for Gary Johnson of Lintz Celtic FC. It is (07875) 941907.

(ii) We have our first Form 50 of the season, Medomsley Miners Arms, who have been suspended for non-payment of a fine. They were told their games would be postponed until they could produce proof of payment from DFA. Two clubs have also been dealt with by DFA on club charges, and they will be asked to appear before the management committee next month, as we take such cases very seriously.

A player in our league, Ashley Bridge of Hamsteels Inn, has been suspended for 112 days for an assault on referee John Lee. His ban lasts until 6th March, but he will not be allowed to play in the league again until he has explained his actions to the management committee and given assurances on his future conduct.

(iii) The draw for the 3rd Round of the Durham Sunday Cup has seen our last survivors Stanley Royal drawn away to Billingham Conservative Club on 6th January, and they were wished good luck.

(iv) A list was received from DFA of candidates who have recently done the basic referees course, and now need to handle six 11-a-side games. It asked that any we use are given fixtures where they are likely to have no bad experiences. The list will be passed on to Mr Smith on his return from holiday to see if we can pick up any new referees. Clubs were reminded that they should show respect to all referees, but particularly new ones.

(v) Durham FA is inviting nominations for groundsman of the year, with a closing date of 21st December. Forms are available from the league secretary.

(vi) The FA National Sports Centre Trust has agreed to set up a new grant aid scheme for clubs at our level who wish to install floodlights or provide/improve dressing rooms. A maximum of £10,000 is available. If anyone is interested the secretary can provide a contact e-mail address.

(vii) Consett Station Ex-Juniors thanked the league and various clubs for donations for a fundraising evening held for Andrew Maddison, who suffered a badly broken leg. More than £800 was raised.

(viii) Secretary Mr Welford reported that the website had been down recently as it had exceeded its bandwidth. This was now rectified, and it should be back to normal.

(ix) Correspondence had been received from Graeme Forster of Grass Roots Arranged Sports Shows (G.R.A.S.S) which organises fundraising talk-ins and sporting dinners with ex-footballers, cricketers, boxers etc. The Secretary has his contact details if anyone is interested.

Fixtures, Transfers & registrations

(i) A list of changes to fixtures and referees for the list distributed by Mr Smith before he went on holiday was read out.

The Chairman said he'd had a meeting with Derwentside District Council about new removable goalposts which they are planning to put up next season, and there are 11 sets which will probably go to Crookhall, Belle Vue, Oakeys, Tantobie, Annfield Plain Park, Ebchester and Hamsteels.

He had also spoken to DDC about postponement of games with the onset of bad weather. It would call off games up to 5pm on a Friday, while league officials have the authority to do so on a Saturday, and the match referee on Sunday.

Clubs were reminded that they should not play any sort of game when a field has been closed, as he had heard that Freemasons Arms played a friendly at Crookhall on 2nd December. He said DDC would be billing the club £64 for the use of the field, and any other club who did this could have their rental agreement terminated with immediate effect. This would leave them without a field, and cost them their place in the league.

The Chairman reminded clubs that fixtures issued at league meetings stand unless they are told otherwise by a league official, and can be added to if reasonable notice is given. We have had an instance in the last month where a club failed to fulfill a fixture because they had not had the game confirmed by the Friday night, and their players made other arrangements. Anyone not receiving confirmation of a fixture should contact a league official and leave it in their hands, not decide that the game is off. Clubs were reminded they should requests for closure of dates in writing with 28 days' notice, and are allowed two per season.

(ii) A list of transfers approved since the last meeting was read out, and Mr Heslop asked clubs to sort out two players who were trying to register for new clubs despite already being signed elsewhere - John Christer and Michael Valentine.

(iii) Mr Heslop said three result sheets were outstanding: two from October from Stateside and one from 4th November for Chelmsford v Newfield. The home clubs were asked to get these to him as soon as possible.

Treasurer's Report

Mr Welford said the league's bank balance was in a healthy state, currently standing at £5,359.34, though he had ordered our trophies and medals for the season from Justsport and received an invoice for £1,931.59, which he intended to pay in full once they are collected. He repeated a request to try to identify which club is making monthly payments from an account in the name T Spedding, but no one claimed it. He said that before the next meeting clubs would receive notification of their fines for the first half of the season, which should be paid at the January meeting.

Other Business

(i) The monthly draw could not be held, as Norman Smith had the numbers and was on holiday.

(ii) The date and time of the next meeting were arranged: Thursday, 10th January, at Delves WMC, with the management meeting at 7.30pm and the main meeting at 8.30pm.

(iii) Holders of league trophies and shields except the Division One championship were asked to bring them to the January meeting so their condition can be assessed and engraving brought up to date.

(iv) Clubs were asked to not use the home number listed for referee Phil Johnston in the league handbook, just the mobile.

There was no other business and the meeting was closed at 9.30pm.

Chairman: Secretary:

The Computer Centre Consett & District Sunday League

League Meeting

Thursday 8th November 2007 at Delves WMC, Consett

Chairman Selwyn Heslop opened the meeting at 8.25pm and welcomed clubs, plus our President Ray Griffiths, and referees' representive Martin Bunting. DFA Vice-President Ronnie Coleman sent his apologies, as did league Vice-Chairman Bill Parkin.

A roll call was held and four clubs were absent: Chopwell Hotel, Consett Freemasons, Medomsley Miners Arms and Beamish & East Stanley. All turned up during the course of the meeting except the Miners, who will be fined as per league rule.

The meeting was handed over to Michael Bell from Durham FA, who congratulated all clubs on achieving Charter Standard status, and said we were one of only seven leagues in the country to have complete Charter Standard status. Presentations of kitbags and benchcoats were then made to all clubs, and commemorative photos were taken.

The minutes of the last meeting on 11th October, which had been published on our website, were agreed to be a true record.

Matters Arising

(i) The problem of balls going into the allotments at Bute Park has still not been solved, and the Chairman said he would take it up with Derwentside District Council.

(ii) All the outstanding results sheets were received by the Chairman as requested.

Correspondence

(i) Details of three potential new referees have been passed on to Fixtures Secretary Norman Smith, and he gave details of another one who has already agreed to do games: Barry Appleton, who can be contacted on (0191) 438 1144 or (07938) 702855. A new contact number was read out for existing referee Jim Kay - (01207) 236865.

(ii) Paul Quinn has paid money owed from Stanley Townley Arms and is free to play for Craghead John's Castle Inn.

(iii) Four of our clubs are in action in the 1st Round of the Durham Sunday Cup on 11th November. Oxhill Central, Consett Steel Club and Stanley Royal are at home, while Consett Black Horse have an away tie for something like the 11th out of their last 12 county cup games. All were wished well.

(iv) Stanley Royal were named as the 'team of the round' for the 1st Round of the FA Sunday Cup for their 4-0 win over Shankhouse United. They received a plaque, 20 free tickets for the final and four cases of lager from sponsors Carlsberg. Sadly they lost their 2nd Round game v Penny Lane 1-0 on Sunday gone.

(v) A list of current suspensions was read out, and clubs were reminded these are updated every Monday on the league's website. For those without Internet access, the Chairman and Secretary have lists.

Fixtures, Transfers & registrations

(i) Norman Smith said he had a new mobile number, (07852) 353134, which was on the bottom of the current fixtures. A list of changes to fixtures and referees was read out. He warned clubs that fixtures will be scheduled for December 23 and 30, and anyone not wanting to play on those dates should let him know as soon as possible. Clubs were reminded they can only request two cancellations per season, and they must be in writing 28 days before the date requested.

(ii) Dates have been set for our first two cup finals at Consett AFC's Belle Vue ground. The Iveston Bowl Final between Tantobie Oak Tree and Medomsley Miners Arms will be on 15th November and the Abbey Trophy Final between Delves WMC and Beamish & East Stanley on 22nd November, both 7.30pm kick off. Clubs were urged to support both finals, and use the tickets which they had been given tonight.

(iii) The Chairman read out a list of transfers which had been agreed since the last league meeting. He also asked clubs to sort our registration forms as soon as possible for the following players: Dean Jones, David Curry (both AK leisure); Brian Phillips (Freemasons); Chris Roy/Reay (Newton Hall).

Treasurer's Report

Mr Welford said the league's bank balance is in a healthy state, currently standing at £5,336.44, though he had ordered our trophies and medals for the season from Justsport and received an invoice for £1,931.59, which he intended to pay in full once they were ready. He asked clubs who were making monthly payments if any of them had bank accounts in the names of T Spedding or R Harrison, as he did not know which clubs these were. R Harrison was South Moor Sports, but no one recognised the other one.

Other Business

(i) The monthly draw was held, with the following results: 1st Prize (£50): No 33, Whitehills Pub; 2nd (£30): No 1, South Moor Sports; 3rd (£20): No 31, Scotch Arms; 4th (£15): No 17 Lintz Celtic; 5th (£10): No 21, Dipton WMC; 6th (£5): No 12, Consett Top Club; 7th (£5): No 2 Chopwell Hotel. Winners were asked to see the Treasurer.

(ii) The Chairman said the next league meeting would be moved forward a week, to Thursday, 6th December, as the following week was well into the Christmas party season. The management committee will be at 7.30pm, with the main meeting at 8.15pm.

(iii) The Chairman said he was alarmed at the lack of first aid kits on touchlines, and reminded clubs that as part of the Charter Standard they should have fully-equipped kits available.

(iv) On the subject of the Charter Standard, clubs were reminded they are obliged to attend at least one workshop in their first 12 months, and he would be asking Durham FA for a list of those which haven't done so yet. Failure to do so will mean losing your Charter Standard, and therefore your place in the league, as it is a condition of membership. The Secretary was asked to write to DFA and request more local workshops, as the last one was in Peterlee at 6.30pm on a weeknight, which was very difficult to get to.

(v) The Chairman reminded clubs that anyone not named on the teamsheet handed to the referee before the game will not be allowed to take part, and there had been a few problems with this recently. Clubs were also asked not to fill in teamsheets in red ink or pencil.

(v) Cup finalists were asked not to turn up at Belle Vue before 6.45pm, as we will not have access to the ground until then. We are trying to get Consett AFC to open the bar and snack bar at all our finals this year. The Chairman said he would like to see our finals better-supported this season.

(vi) John Woods of the Burton House asked if it was possible to ask the council to put up signs asking dog owners not to let their pets foul football pitches, as this had become a big problem for them. The Chairman said he would make the request, but reminded everyone it is the home club's responsibility to make sure a field is playable.

(vii) Andrew Maddison of Consett Station Ex-Juniors suffered a badly broken leg and the club is in the process of arranging a charity race night for him on 30th November. Any clubs wishing to make a donation, either cash or a raffle prize, was asked to contact Tony Grigg. The league will be making a donation.

There was no other business and the meeting closed at 9.15pm.

Chairman: Secretary:

The Computer Centre Consett & District Sunday League

League Meeting

Thursday 11th October 2007 at Delves WMC, Consett

Chairman Selwyn Heslop opened the meeting at 8.30pm and welcomed clubs, plus our President Ray Griffiths, DFA Vice-President Ronnie Coleman and referee Phil Johnson.

He started by reminding clubs of their obligations to notify opponents and particularly referees of games at least five days before they are due to be played. Several referees are threatening not to turn up if games are not confirmed in time, and he warned that any clubs responsible for a game not taking place for this reason will be severely dealt with by the management committee.

Secondly, he said indiscipline has been a major problem this season, and it is mainly players and officials who are responsible. Three clubs have had £100 suspended fines imposed on them by the league already this season, and another club has been fined £100 by Durham FA and severely warned as to its future conduct. The Chairman warned that any persistent offenders could have points deducted, and possibly lose their Charter Standard status, which would cost them their membership of the league. He said he had been so upset by the problem that he had seriously considered resigning, but had been talked out of it.

A roll call was held and three clubs were absent: Jolly Drovers, Whitehills Pub and South Moor Excelsior. Whitehills subsequently turned up, but the other two did not, and will be fined as per league rule.

The minutes of the previous meeting on Thursday, 13th September, which had been published on the website, were agreed to be a true record.

Matters Arising

(i) Craghead John's Castle Inn have now attained Charter Standard status, which means all 36 members of the league now have it.

(ii) Our two late affiliations, for Newfield Inn and Quebec Rangers, have been confirmed by DFA.

(iii) Changes of secretary for Hamsteels Inn and Tantobie Oak Tree have been confirmed by DFA, and Consett Fountain were reminded they need to change their details.

Correspondence

(i) Three of our clubs made it through to the 3rd Preliminary Round of the Durham Sunday Cup on 21st October. Consett Black Horse and Craghead John's Castle Inn both have away draws, while Oxhill Central are at home. All were wished well, and we hoped they would be joining Consett Steel Club and Stanley Royal in the 1st Round proper.

(ii) Clubs were reminded that they should fill in or amend any missing or incorrect information when they receive misconduct charge sheets from DFA, as this helps keep its records up to date.

(iii) Cheques for £25 were sent to John Topping of DFA and John Woods of Burton House FC as sponsorship for their efforts in the Great North Run. Letters of thanks were received from both.

(iv) Three players have been removed from the DFA Form 50 suspensions list after paying money owed to the league: they were Michael Logan and Richard Elliott (both Stanley Shaftos) and Steven Forster (Leadgate Coach & Horses).

(v) A list of current and imminent suspensions was read out. These are updated weekly on the website, and the Secretary and Chairman have lists if anyone has no Internet access.

(vi) A new mobile number was given out for Tony Grigg of Consett Station Ex-Juniors, (07961) 544360.

(vii) Derwentside District Council have asked teams at Bute Park, Dipton, to use the gate when they retrieve balls from the allotments. A higher fence will be put up to try to stop it happening so often.

(viii) Teams using the Eden changing rooms at Leadgate have been asked by DDC not to pile up nets, posts, rubbish etc in front of the doors, as the cleaners are having difficulty getting in.

Fixtures, Transfers & registrations

(i) Norman Smith said that while referees seem to be always giving us negative feedback about teams, he has watched two games recently where the refs were very complimentary about the teams, and asked him to pass their remarks on.

(ii) A series of changes to fixtures and referees was read out, and clubs were asked to kick off at 10.15am on 11th November, or pause their game for two minutes' silence at 11am. All referees will be informed about the possible early kick off.

(iii) A list of 13 transfers agreed since the last meeting was read out. Mr Heslop said three transfer forms were still outstanding from the last meeting, and these players' registrations will be suspended until they are received: they are Shaun Panton (Consett Stateside), Scott Rutherford (Medomsley Miners Arms) and David Zielkowski (Burton House).

(iv) The Chairman said that from tonight he would be introducing a new form for clubs to use when they want to de-register players, and this is the only way they can do it. Phone calls or e-mails are no longer acceptable. He said that far too many players are being taken off clubs' retained lists and then re-signed, with 280 out of the 427 players he has registered so far this season re-signing for the same clubs.

(v) Result sheets are outstanding from the following games: 23rd September Horse & Groom v Hamsteels; Stateside v Tantobia Oak Tree; 7th October Newfield Inn v Jolly Drovers; Burton House v Beamish & East Stanley. he asked clubs to get them to him as soon as possible, though they will not be fined, within reason, due to the postal strike.

(vi) Mr Heslop reminded clubs that they should give their completed teamsheet to the referee to sign before the game, and that anyone not on it will not be allowed to take part in the game.

(vii) Any clubs taking part in outside competitions, such as the North West Durham Charity Cup or Durham Hospitals Cup, were reminded that they must inform the league, and they must also ring results in to us in the normal manner, to help with planning of fixtures.

(viii) Freemasons Arms were informed that they now have 31 players signed on, and must remove one as soon as possible.

Treasurer's Report

Mr Welford said the league's bank balance is in a healthy state, currently standing at £4,438.12, plus about £500 held in cash and cheques. He said most clubs have now started to make monthly payments, or have paid the amount owed in full for the season, but a handful haven't paid anything yet, and have been fined £30 already for late payments. If anyone needed a new standing order form he had a supply with him, and asked clubs to see him after the meeting.

Other Business

(i) The monthly draw was held, with the following results: 1st Prize (£50): No 18, Burton House; 2nd (£30): No 24, Tantobie Oak Tree; 3rd (£20): No 3, Freemasons Arms; 4th (£15): No 5 Consett Fountain; 5th (£10): No 29, Stanley Royal; 6th (£5): No 13, Oxhill Central; 7th (£5): No 14 Beamish & East Stanley.

(ii) The Chairman said a new first aid course is starting in the next couple of weeks. Anyone who needs a first aider should contact him for details.

(iii) Norman Smith gave details of two fundraising events at Consett AFC, a sportsman's dinner on November 1 featuring Frank Worthington, and a Christmas dinner on December 8. Anyone interested in tickets for either shoudl contact him.

The date and time of the next meeting was set: Thursday, 8th November at Delves WMC, management committee at 7.30pm, main meeting at 8.30pm.

There was no other business and the meeting closed at 9pm.

Chairman: Secretary:

The Computer Centre Consett & District Sunday League

League Meeting

Thursday, 13th September 2007 at Delves WMC

Chairman Selwyn Heslop opened the meeting at 8.45pm and welcomed members, plus our President Ray Griffiths and Durham FA Vice President Ronnie ColemanHe apologised for the late start, but said the management committee had so much business that it over-ran, and will have to reconvene next week.

He said the league has been awarded a certificate last week for the work all its clubs did in attaining Charter Standard, and he thanked everyone for their efforts. The only members yet to achieve it are Crag