This page is primarily for our Gisborne Club Directors 

Any competent person can direct a normal club session and anyone interested is encouraged to see Stephen Francks who is coordinating directors for 2021. Qualified directors who are playing in a session will always be willing to assist with any difficult issues.

Qualified directors
Jean Bennett, Elizabeth Jackson, Trish Corson, Bette Parker, John Rouse, Vicki Taylor, Stephen Francks, Amanda Matthews, Janet Joblin, Norma Miller.

Playing time

It is recommended that a move is called when two thirds of the number of tables have finished a round.
Alternatively, allow seven minutes for one board per table or 13 minutes for two boards per table.  These times can be adjusted by plus or minus 30 seconds per board depending on the level of experience of the players.

Movements

The choice of movements is made by the Director for the session. A book of simple Mitchell movements suitable for all normal session play is available in the Directors' drawer at the Club. It is Club policy to use the Howell movement for six or less tables.

Opening Lead out of turn

Recommended advice to declarer following an opening lead out of turn

1.    "You may accept the lead out of turn, Partner puts his hand down as Dummy, and you play as normal, your hand first.

2.    "You may accept the lead out of turn, and let Partner play the hand (but no conferring).

3.    "You may have the spade/heart/diamond/club declared a major penalty card: the correct leader may lead what he likes, but their partner's spade/ heart/diamond/club must be played at the first legal opportunity.

4.    "You may require the correct leader to lead a spade: the lead out of turn is picked up, and that Defender may play any card.

5.    "You may forbid the correct leader from leading a spade for as long as he retains the lead: the lead out of turn is picked up."