This message is just to alert members to an upcoming matter relating to BWSW governance

Under the Sports Code, observance of which is a requirement of our important Sport England funding, directors terms are normally limited (from 2016) to a nine year period. There are exceptions to this including a two year extension for a director who becomes Chair during their appointment (assuming the articles provide for this) and, in exceptional circumstances, one year for a director.

Furthermore, the Sports Code requires a publicly advertised process for the appointment of the BWSW Chair.

Martin Winter, the current Chair, has confirmed that, subject to the necessary change to the articles, he is fine to continue for a period following the scheduled January 2025 AGM when he would otherwise need to retire. This is on the basis that steps are then taken to identify a successor in accordance with the Code requirements.

In the normal way there will, of course, also be scope at the AGM for Full Member voting clubs/centres to make their own nomination for appointment to the BWSW board.

The BWSW board propose to put forward the necessary amendments to the articles at the January 2025 AGM to allow for Martin Winter’s continuance as Chair and the one year extension in exceptional circumstances for a director as contemplated by the Sports Code. This flexibility would then be built into our governance procedures in any event and this extension can be voted upon at the AGM.

However, if there are any candidates to take on the role of Chair or who have questions as to what is involved or with this proposed extension or change to our articles they are invited to email Vice-Chair Steve Sopp on stevesopp@hotmail.com or call him on 07899 685861 so they can be taken into account by the BWSW board.

It would be appreciated if comments could be received, to the extent possible, within a one month period so they can be brought to the attention of the BWSW board to enable for appropriate planning.