Following the latest government advice, we are expecting that the COVID-19 restrictions will have been eased in time for Thrudball 2021. We know nothing is certain, and that this is a roll of the dice, but data remains positive, and we remain hopeful.

However, even with the removal of all restrictions, we are still going to be taking pains to safeguard all attendees; just because things are opening up does not mean that the pandemic is over. We also have to remember that several members of the community are in 'at risk' groups, or are immuno compromised; we have to protect everyone.

The most important thing we are asking coaches over the age of 18* to do is to complete a COVID-19 test prior to entry into the building; that test should either be completed up to 24 hours before your arrival, or on-site using a lateral flow test provided by the event. If you complete this ahead of time, you will be asked for proof of the test result before you will be permitted on site. If you do not compelte this ahead of time, or do not have proof, you will be given a test to complete on arrival.

As per government advice, anyone registering a positive test result should immediately self-isolate, and unfortunately, we are aware that this could result in coaches missing the event (it should go without saying that all organisers will also be subject to this rule). The organisers are recommending that coaches complete this testing process prior to travelling, to avoid disappointment.

We will not be able to offer a full refund to any coach due to incurred costs, but we will ensure that any coach who misses this year gets a discounted ticket for 2022. Any goodie bags, pitches, etc., will be posted out to self-isolated coaches at no extra cost.

If you leave the site for an extended period (e.g. you go out for food, or to a hotel or other accomodation, we will ask you provide us with a new test result.

As we've previously announced, the event has invested in wipe clean pitches that will be sterilised in between each round; these are also being set up to give us two metres between each table. The organisers are actually asking that coaches do not bring their own, share dice or, wherever possible, touch your opponents' models, especially if they ask you not to.

On arrival, all coaches will also be provided with a Thrud Face Mask, and even if restrictions have been lifted, we are asking that everyone consider others and even if they feel comfortable without one, to wear them while inside; this will be especially important if you are playing against a coach with a Black wristband (see below). 

You'll also be given your own bottle of Thrud Hand Sanitiser, and we know that coaches will use it, just like they wash their hands after using the bathroom.

Attendees will also be given one of three Proximity Wristbands, which we're asking to be worn throughout the event; these are colour coded.

• Green means 'open to hugs'

• Red means 'ask first'

• Black means 'keep your distance'

Remember that some of our coaches are immuno compromised or have invisible medical needs; it is really important that you pay attention to these wristbands and respect a coach's personal choices.

We are extremely keen for Thrudball to go ahead in a fun and safe manner, and we are conscious that even when a person has been vaccinated, they can still carry the virus. Thank you for your understanding, and we'll see you in just a few weeks!

Glowworm, Nazgob and Thor