News from the Editor's Chair
A new season and another period of unrest looms for the English Amateur Billiards Association. After a reasonable period of stability the Association finds it necessary, in the interests of the future of English Billiards, to gird its loins and stand by the traditions of our noble sport. The stark reality of the situation is that the game of billiards is swiftly being eroded and debauched to a level of gimmickry intolerable to those who take pride in being connected with a sport so rich in skill, artistry and established traditions. Those who purport to be the custodians of billiards have complete disregard for the feelings of players at all levels of the amateur game. The need to mould the game into a moneymaking circus is both irresponsible and crass. The E.A.B.A. is in no doubt that, if not checked, the present trend could ruin the game and calls upon the governing bodies to think seriously about an inept and uncaring attitude which is obvious to everyone but themselves. The E.A.B.A. will, within the next few days, present a paper to all known billiard playing individuals and leagues setting out their concerns about the present state of affairs. A suggestion for the future good health of billiards will be outlined. Your support will be canvassed and individual comments noted. We may well be a minority sport but we have no intentions of being driven to extinction.
On a lighter note, the 'Loose Cannons' have returned home from their tour of New Zealand and Singapore. A whistle stop tour of the North and South islands provided the intrepid tourists with an experience of hospitality and friendship, which by far exceeded all expectations. The organisation and hospitality of all the Local Associations who invited us to play at their various clubs was splendid. A beautiful country, coupled with the warmth of our welcome wherever we played made the trip to the antipodes a treasured memory. We must congratulate the New Zealand referees and administrators for their organising skills and thank the players and billiards supporters for the way they so kindly received us. Special thanks to Ray Habgood and his lovely wife Margaret for entertaining us on our first night in Auckland and the very adept way that Ray set out the tour itinerary. Thanks also to Brian Villers for all his help at Hamilton, and to Merv Stewart for his kindness at Wangerel, the fishing trip was something special. Our trip to Singapore was equally momentous, Alan Puan and his colleagues made us very welcome into their City of oriental antiquity, high-tech and fast food. The climate didn't suit all of our tourists. Those of us who felt a little uncomfortable with the extreme humidity had to seek the refreshment and comfort of a Singapore Sling in the 'Long Room' at Raffles Hotel. It's a hard life!
Last week I received a surprise telephone call from Joe Bird, Llanferries. Earlier this year Joe contracted a very rare disease which left him completely paralysed. Primarily, his condition was of great concern and stunned his family and friends. However, over many weeks his condition has improved to the point that his nurse was able to support him in his effort to make the telephone call. He is pleased to report that he is making progress, albeit very slowly. He sends his best wishes to all his billiards colleagues and is looking forward to the day when he can return to the fold. I would like to add my personal thanks to Paul Dunning, who has given tremendous support to Joe during his illness, and to all those who are keeping in touch with Joe and his family during a very difficult time.
We wish everyone a happy and successful new season, and a peaceful and healthy Yuletide.