Dear parents

I just wanted to share some extremely good news with you - and put out a couple of requests for help...

CHARTER STANDARD

After well over a year of work, we have finally been awarded Charter Standard status by the FA.  As I have said in previous newsletters and at last season's presentation nights, this is official confirmation that we run a tight ship as far as coaching standards, child protection policies and administration are concerned.
Our newfound status will open all sorts of new doors and I'd like to once again put on record my particular gratitude to our vice-chairman Jon Clark and secretary Steve Baynes, as well as all the managers, for their efforts in achieving this accolade.

NIGEL GALE

At our last committee meeting, we made a presentation to Nigel Gale to mark his retirement from active duties after a season as under-17s/18s manager.  His return to coaching followed years of service on the committee, culminating in chairmanship of the club.  We have also made Nigel an honorary vice-president in recognition of his massive contribution to Castle Combe Colts.

UNDER 17s

Sadly, a change in working patterns forced Vic Hillier to step down as manager of one of our under-17 teams, and as kit manager.  Happily, Chris Cole has stepped up to fill the first role, while committee member Ian Bamber has agreed to take on the kit position.

HELP, I NEED SOMEBODY

Well, two people, actually.

First of all we're on the look-out for a suitable jolly volunteer for the crucial role of Santa at the Christmas party on November 30. It's probably best if you don't have a child attending the party, unless you're an extremely good actor.  Anyone willing to play the part of the big man - or who knows a grandad or uncle who might - should report for duty to Steve Baynes on 447433 or via the email address This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Secondly, our last committee meeting also saw us begin looking at possible improvements to our facilities at Castle Combe.
There is a desperate need to revamp our parking arrangements but we would also like to give the clubhouse a major facelift, with bigger changing rooms.
We are in the process of contacting architects and/or landscape contractors to get some idea of what might be possible and what it might cost.
If any of you have expertise or contacts in these fields, I'd be very grateful if you could let me know via my email address: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

BAG PACKING

As you know, we're packing bags at Sainsbury's on Saturday November 22, with the money we raise split between the club and the Wiltshire Air Ambulance Appeal.
We've now got a rota involving age groups from under-11/12 to under-16 stretching from 10am to 4pm, which the managers of those teams are co-ordinating.
Please try to help if you're around, and the idea is that the boys wear their Combe shirts while "on duty".

That's all for now - as always, thanks for your support and thanks for listening.
Kind regards

Paul Wiltshire
Chairman