WITH woods at the ready, an enthusiastic group of bowlers welcomed the start of the bowling season at Crediton Bowling Club on Saturday, April 19, ready to try out the manicured green that had been prepared by a team of volunteers. But unfortunately it wasn’t to be.

Rain didn’t stop play, they didn’t even begin as the green was holding water and the Green Keeper informed members that it was too dangerous to play.

However, fitting in tradition, Steve Wollacott, the newly elected President for 2025, rolled up the first bowl to commemorate the start of the bowling season. Much to great applause.

Steve explained that his charity of the year will be the Devon Air Ambulance and a collection followed before members returned into the club house to enjoy the tea - always a highlight of a Club Day.

So after six months of resting from playing outside bowls, friendships were rekindled for those who hadn’t been playing during the winter or had not visited the club for some time.

Although Crediton Bowling Club offers a varied social calendar throughout the winter months ranging from quizzes, horse racing, skittles, bingo and an opportunity to join the art group, the camaraderie is noticeable on Open Day.

So the season has begun with matches scheduled in the next week at Crediton against Morchard Bishop (on Wednesday, April 23), Barnstaple Rock Park on Saturday, Aril 26 and Okehampton on Sunday, April 27.

Come along and see how bowlers get their exercise.

Sue Hendy

Fixture Secretary

• Crediton Bowling Club has more than 100 members and the Club is situated in Newcombes Meadow within the park.

It is affiliated to Bowls Devon and Bowls England and members are entitled to enter County and National competitions as well as Club competitions.