News & Comment (Always refresh the page to ensure you are looking at the latest version)
2021
 
Can't Raise a Full Team ?
2nd May
 
You might want to consider amalgamating with another team just for this season.
Let me know.
 
So, here's a plan....
27th April
 
As Donald Rumsfeld once said .." we know what we don't know"..
At this stage with only c30% of pubs open, we don't know which of our venues will be operational by June 21st
We don't know which teams are willing to return and we don't know which players will turn out.
But the bigger unknown is how many pubs may choose to dedicate their gardens to cater for their regulars who don't want to go back inside just yet.
Our venues have a lot of economic ground to recover and we can only contribute to their coffers on a Thursday evening.
 
I've written to 'captains' this morning to ask them to try to ascertain the above and to start registering teams via the web site from Saturday May 1st.
Our intention is to run a nine week league from Thursday July 1st.
At this stage we have no idea of structure - it will depend on who registers - but the Committee will meet on June 1st to put something together.
In the circumstances, we're opting for a 'fun' league with no competitions and no promotion/relegation carry-overs to next year.
So, keep an eye on the web site from Saturday and fingers crossed we get a good response.
 
First stirrings...
16th April
 
We held our first Committee meeting on Wednesday to plan some sort of League activity for you.
Check for an update over the next week.
In the meantime, start talking to your team mates and landlord to discover what your options are.
 
General Update
1st February
 
Normally at this time of year, we'd be thinking of the upcoming season and starting to formulate the agenda of our February planning meeting and traditionally, the web site would opening for 2021 team registration.
Given the most recent news and rumours, it is pointless to speculate, though, it may be possible to run a half season.
When things are clearer, we'll let you know and open up for registration.
Let's hope that the vaccination program rolls out smoothly and life starts to slowly restore.
In the meantime, we can do no more than behave, stay safe and wait it out.
 
Our thoughts go out to those whose lives have been irrevocably changed by the events of 2020 - jobs, businesses, livelihoods and the loss
of loved ones.
 
Regrettably, my first task of the year is to inform you of two more passings:-
 
Obituary - Colin (Joe) Gibbard - Trout
1st February
 
From Joe's family:-
 

"Colin Gibbard was a well respected and much loved member of the community of Langford. He was born in the village on 27th April 1943 and lived at the family home on the corner of The Elms for over 70 years. Known as Joe to his friends (and Doe to his family).
He worked on a farm in Langford before spending 40+ years working for the Environment Agency, on the River Thames.
He retired in 2008 to spend more time in his garden. Gardening was a passion of Colin’s and he also helped in other gardens around the village.
Colin enjoyed playing Aunt Sally, Darts, Pool and Dominoes in the area.
He attended Speedway at Blunsdon Stadium and followed local Football in Swindon Town and Oxford United.
A bachelor all of his life, Colin dedicated himself to his family. After his father Albert passed away in 1998 he looked after his mother Dorothy
(along with his sister Linda and brother-in-law Stanley) until her passing in 2015.
He was loved by his family and will be greatly missed by all who knew him".
Colin passed away on 28th January 2021.
 
 
Joe had a long committment to the Bampton Aunt Sally League and was Pairs winner in 1984 and Singles winner in 1996.
Sharing the same venue since 2009, I always looked forward to seeing him at our home derbies and friendlies. A real nice 'fella.
On behalf of the Committee and all our members, our condolences go out to Joe's family and friends . (BA-W)
 
Obituary - Bernie Huckin - Duck Sports
4th February
 
With great sadness we are told of the passing of Bernie Huckin , a stalwart of Duck Sports. Our thoughts again are with family and friends.
From the Duck Sports team:
 
"Our friend and team mate Bernie will be sadly missed by all who played along side him over the many years.
Held in the greatest respect and liked by all, Bernie will always be remembered. Our condolences & best wishes to Liz and all of the family".
 
(Pictured receiving the Highest Doll Score (A ) medal at the 2019 Finals Night awards for a magnificent 180)
 
The Family have asked to share the webcam details for friends who would like to view the service.