From the Chairman HEADLINES Health & Safety audit records 107 areas of compliance Bore hole project moves closer to construction Dedicated spraying machine approved to maintain course quality Membership survey to help shape the future direction of the club Board agrees to continue brewery partnership with Greene King Financial controls strengthened following reconciliation review MAIN STORIES 1. Club Operations & Member Experience Planning continues to enhance the club's social offering, with a membership survey being developed to better understand what members value most and how the club can continue to evolve. The Ladies into Golf Day attracted around 30 attendees and was considered a successful event, with expectations that it will generate new lady members. Following a competitive tender process, the Board agreed to continue its partnership with Greene King after improved commercial terms were secured. Early indications show that recent bar price changes have been accepted by members with little resistance, bringing pricing more in line with neighbouring clubs. Hot weather highlighted the lack of air conditioning within parts of the clubhouse, affecting both equipment and staff working conditions. Options are now being investigated. The Presidents Day event received positive feedback from participants, with this year's proceeds supporting the Junior Section. 2. Course & Facilities The bore hole project is expected to commence within the next two to four weeks, representing another important investment in the long-term sustainability of the golf course. Mechanical problems with the spraying equipment affected green speeds during the month. Following discussion, the Board approved the purchase of a dedicated spraying machine to protect course quality and provide greater operational flexibility. The course continues to be presented in excellent condition and the Board remains committed to maintaining these high standards. Interviews for the new greenkeeping apprenticeship are scheduled to take place during the coming weeks. 3. Finance & Governance Discussion centred on the development of the 2026 budget and the long-term sustainability of Food & Beverage operations. Whilst recent bar price increases and improved brewery purchasing terms will contribute positively, the Board acknowledged the ongoing challenge of achieving profitability within a difficult hospitality market while continuing to provide the level of service members expect. A year-end 2025 cash reconciliation gap of approximately £12,000 remains under investigation. Initial enquiries were unable to identify the root cause; however, the available evidence suggests it relates to the historic accounting treatment of member card balances following the introduction of the previous till system. Improved financial controls, including monthly cash reconciliations, have now been introduced to ensure any similar issues are identified promptly in future. More detailed investigation remains ongoing. Conflict of Interest declarations were also discussed, with Board members reminded to return completed forms. Initial discussions also began regarding future governance arrangements and the challenges of recruiting volunteers for key governance roles. 4. Membership & Marketing The Chairman is finalising a membership survey which will shortly be circulated to members. The survey will provide valuable feedback to help shape the club's future strategy and ensure that future investment reflects member priorities. Progress also continues on the Ladies' locker room refurbishment, with encouraging demand already being demonstrated and the club awaiting the contractor's deposit invoice. 5. Health, Safety & Compliance The club successfully completed its external Citation Health & Safety Audit on 2 June, achieving an excellent result with 107 areas of compliance. Only one high-priority recommendation was identified, relating to a DSEAR assessment of the greenkeepers' fuel storage. The Board agreed that commissioning the assessment represents best practice. The independent assessment of the 8th hole concluded that the current level of risk is low, supported by the natural protection provided by mature trees and the absence of any previous accidents. Additional warning signage will be installed and the area will continue to be monitored. The boilers have been serviced and certification received. Following an unannounced inspection by Walsall Council, the clubhouse kitchen was assessed as operating to an effective five-star standard, with one exception relating to the use of vacuum packing equipment for cooked and raw foods. A second machine was purchased immediately to eliminate the risk, and a further inspection will take place in approximately three months to confirm the official five-star rating. 6. Decisions, Actions & Next Steps Commission the DSEAR assessment for greenkeepers' fuel storage. Install additional warning signage on the 8th tee and continue monitoring. Distribute the membership survey to all members. Commence construction of the bore hole project. Progress recruitment for the greenkeeping apprenticeship. Purchase the dedicated spraying machine. Implement the revised buggy policy. Continue monthly cash reconciliations as part of strengthened financial controls. Complete the Ladies' locker room refurbishment following contractor confirmation. CLOSING NOTE The Board continues to invest in the long-term future of Druids Heath Golf Club while maintaining a strong focus on governance, financial discipline and member experience. Thank you for your continued support and engagement. We look forward to keeping you informed as these projects progress throughout the season. Chairman, Druids Heath Golf Club