The ECF have changed the arrangements for game fees to encourage us all to become ECF members. The club will offer free bronze membership for all members next year or a discount for ECF members.
So for the majority of players who play their chess at the club or the county the club will sort it out for you in the background. If you are a current ECF member then renewals will be arriving on your doormat and the advice is to renew as normal and look forward to a discount on your subs!