Bridge, your next life (2)

By Pam Beggin

So what about all these extra goodies mentioned in the first article?

Glamour? As you only see the top half of people, you have your hair done regularly and a good manicure as you notice people’s fingers when they put down the cards.

Travel? There are several companies which organise holidays at home and abroad. (NB. Mr Bridge and Five Star Bridge Tel: 01824 780 530 or www.fivestarbridge.co.uk) These all have a host system where partners are guaranteed and make everyone, particularly single people , especially welcome.

Admiration of peer group. If you mention that you play bridge people say ‘Oh, I couldn’t play bridge – you must have a marvellous memory to remember all those cards!

Never correct them, never say it’s usually two or three cards that you are concentrating on. Let them admire your skill and look smug.

Admiration of your children? They think that Bridge is a much more worthy activity than gawping at TV and I think it warns them that you are still.

Parties? A very pleasant social evening is a is a two table Bridge evening. There is a formula whereby everyone plays everyone else which makes it great fun. The catering can be very simple – plenty of wine, a main course and a dessert. Bridge players are so keen to get back to the cards that they’re not into crystallised violets or asking you for the recipe for your coulis.

So there is the Bridge World. Step inside. It is not just a game, more a way of life.