OVER 700 members of the Melksham Skittles League can breathe a sigh of relief – the league has “every intention” to return later this year.
Concerns were recently raised by members that the popular game may not return because of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, with venues still closed and some members hesitant to return to the sport after a year of ‘staying at home’.
But chairman of the Melksham Skittles League, Andy Hillier, has told Melksham News that the committee is busy making plans for a ‘safe’ September return.
One local player said, “I really hope that it does return – it’s not just about the game, it’s the social side of things – it’s so important to so many members and it has been greatly missed whilst we’ve been in lockdown.”
The league has said that it has plans to host its annual general meeting in July, where more information will be available about its return
“Our intention is that there will be a Melksham Skittles League again,” said chairman Andy, “There might be a few bumps along the way, and a few things to decide about things like using hand gel, but the plan is to follow the government’s roadmap out of lockdown.
“Hopefully all restrictions will be lifted by June, and this will allow us to have an AGM in July and a new season starting in September.
“With over 700 members – 300 in the women’s league and over 400 in the men’s – it would be a huge loss to the community if it were to go, but I can’t see any reason why that won’t happen – all will be okay.”
The chairman also explained that the league is waiting to hear from the local venues that host games about their plans for reopening.
“A lot depends on the venues,” said Andy, “we are restricted by them – so we are waiting to hear what they will do. However, I can’t see why they won’t open up.”
Fixtures secretary, Andy Bainton, added, “By the time the leagues start, everyone should of at least had their first vaccination, if not their second and we hope this will get us all back on track to what used to be normality.”
For more information about the skittles league, visit the website: www.melkshamskittlesleague.co.uk
