Members attending a special combined meeting of the Club voted in favour of a 2009 programme concentrating on four or five key matches over a reduced season. The aim, against the background of concern about the future of many sporting clubs in the current economic climate, is to ensure that both players and social members can enjoy well-attended days at the Club, rather than sprinkling play over a longer period.

The matches selected with be for the following trophies; the Bilbrook (27-28 June), Summersgill Ladies (4-5 July) Chairman's (18-19 July) and Stags (29-30 August), with one of the days designated as the Club's very popular Charity Day. We will also aim to run a Pony Club rally on July 14, following last year's highly successful inaugural event.

All members (and their guests) were encouraged to make every effort to be at the Club for those days, when visiting teams will be invited to maintain a high level of play.

The AGM heard Chairman Jeremy Toye recall the highlights of the 2008 season, including the historic exhibition match at Dunster, a very well-attended Open Day, the Pony Club rally and the Marie Curie Day that raised £1600 for the charity in spite of the all-too-familiar weather.

Polo Manager James Norman recounted the successes of 2008, but also reminded members that the last match was played on August 23, and even then in the rain. James thanked the sponsors of the year's event: Lisa Wood, Guy Elgar, Philip Douglas and Knight Frank. The Pony Club rally continued the Club's strong commitment to bring on young players.

Treasurer Megan French presented figures which showed the club to be in sound financial shape in spite of the weather-hit season, allowing the club some flexibility in handling 2009 and beyond.

Megan, Secretary Lisa Wood and Jeremy were re-elected to their posts on the Committee for the 2009 season, with other members to be announced later. Philip expressed thanks to them, James and everyone who worked on behalf of the club during the year.