I think this is a positive change in the format. After all what is wrong with trying to rejuvenate an event that gets a bit stale during the Summer months?
I will probably try and attend more of these now because of the extra added value.
Also with regards to start times. I tend to agree that 5pm feels a bit too late. But on the same token 12 is too early (we are poker players!) I think something in between like 3pm feels more comfortable.