Happy Friday everyone,

Lots of interesting things happening or in the pipeline at the moment. Jon trekked off to Colchester to see what Eastern Region were going on about with talk of development plans and pennies from British Fencing. He's come back full of ideas and enthusiasm so if you'd like to get involved in either County level or even Regional committee do give him a tap on the shoulder.

Another element of this is that Region are looking for referees and armourers - if you'd be interested do let Jon know at the usual address. The final part of this is that we are looking to hold more competitions within county - if you are prepared to help with those then it would be appreciated.

We've had some communication from Watford about having some more competitions and so we've set up a series of matches starting September 1st. This will be Epee and at home - so there's no reason for all the epeeists out there not to come along and do their bit.

The other dates for your diary are:

• Sabre 12 October - Away
• Foil 3rd November - Home
• Novice Foil - 7th December Away

Teams are of 4 (3 and a reserve) - so if you're interested do let me know!

On competitions, at the pub last night we managed to coerce a healthy proportion of those present into doing the Essex Open. Jon may have mentioned something about providing a healthy reward for the best aggregate result. It's the 3rd and 4th September and from the sounds of it we had a solid 10 or so around the table interested in going. Just remember - you will need your BFA licence for that one. Liam is slowly working up a list of competitions that are reasonably close and we'll post that up when we get a chance.

The Open Air marches steadily closer - please remember to get entry forms back to Philip as we have opened entry up to other clubs.

If anyone is interested there is a committee meeting at Helen T's house this Tuesday at 8 - if you are coming from St Albans give Jon an email for a lift or directions.

Finally, as it'll put a smile on Tony's face - Penn and Teller this Saturday at 9- he shall be performing a stupendous piece of magic that will knock your socks off. Get it Sky+'d people.

News Update: July 18

The Luton Relay saw 9 of us wake up at silly o'clock on a Sunday. We came, we saw and we fenced our little hearts out. Sadly, we didn't win. We did see some impressive attempts to claw victory from the jaws of defeat and Bev managed a small victory which no doubt she shall share with you (at length) for as long as you'll listen.... Thanks to everyone who took part, and for those of you who didn't it was a great day - we'll rope you in next year!

This year's Essex Open (if you've caught competition fever) is on the 3 and 4 September and this year includes a novice foil event. I know there's a few people interested so far, and its not that far to go for an Open. But you will need a full BFA license. Entry is through the Leon Paul shop - and don't forget to let us know if you're going and how you do!

Olympics tickets - some folks have told us they don't want theirs so if you didn't put your name down first time its second chance rules so email us . We'll be pulling names out of a mask Thursday 21st. If you've not paid for your tickets yet can you get cheques to Philip by the 21st as well please.

Open Air looms large upon us once again - Entry Forms to Philip, and Jon usually has a clipboard full with him on Thursdays. It's a great day, we'll have a huge BBQ and bring friends, family and they can see what we get dressed up in the funny white gear for.

See you Thursday