(From Bob's Blog:  Re -- Grand Match failure -- Apparently the unknown number of spectators is a problem. Thousands crowding on to the ice amongst the curlers could cause the ice to collapse.)

That totally fails to understand the nature of Sheet Ice.

If the recommended depth of ice is reached, it floats, and the only way to break it is to put a considerable weight in one spot. Even than this may only crack the ice, allowing any trapped air to escape and, as water seeps into the crack, it refreezes, so strengthening the ice.

They should go the same way as the FSA, I think that the excuses they have produced for their failure have been somewhat weak and lacking in substance.

I can quite believe that PC Plod might have made such a comment, having no knowledge of the use of 'open' Ice. But it was the Committee's job to find out whether the objection was valid or refute it if possible.

signed

Edward Baines. aka 'wee eddie' (for the last 49 years)

Notes from the Grand Match Committee can be found at http://www.royalcaledoniancurlingclub.org/rccc/assets/File/pdf/Grand_Match_Report_1.pdf