AFTER five months of feverish activity the final bowls of the season were delivered at Crediton Bowling Club on Sunday, September 24, on a blustery afternoon.

A total of 24 members attended and four matches of triples took place followed by a bring and share tea.

The previous day had seen 14 couples compete for the Aussie Pairs title.

This is a clever variation of a normal pairs game but after initial confusion was enjoyed by all.

The winners by the slightest of margins were Karen Theedom and Trevor Newbery.

While enjoying another shared tea Mark Theedom and Jenny Newbery were thanked for all their efforts in arranging the Club competitions.

Richard Gunn was thanked for his Friday night organisation of the Umbrella competition, this year won by Colin Ladd.

Thanks were also expressed to all of those who have served behind the bar and prepared the teas.

The last competition of the year saw the final of the Ladies Pairs being played.

It was somewhat ironic that after delays due to the weather and illness the final still had to be suspended due to heavy rain and played over two days.

In an incredibly close match Pam Swan and Sue Grigg overcame Charlene Lobb and Jill Heal by 21 shots to 20.

The weather played havoc with the last week of friendlies as only three out of the last seven were played.

Victories by 66-53 over St Thomas and 96-69 over North Tawton were achieved but Torrington managed to become the only club to do the double over us by winning 103-100.

During the season 49 friendly matches were played and Crediton’s record was an impressive 37 wins and 12 losses.

More than 65 members played in the friendly fixtures with obviously some playing far more than others due to their availability.

So that is 2023 over!

The club does stay busy during the winter with skittles being played twice a week and then from the beginning of October onwards there is a members social evening on a Friday with activities such as bingo, skittles, quizzes and horse racing!

Hopefully everyone winters well as the green gets its annual makeover in readiness to start all over again in April 2024.

Maybe you would be interested in joining and if so come down to the club early in the season to try the taster sessions.

Until then I’d like to thank everyone who has shown interest in my reports.

Crediton Bowling Club is in a very strong position and it is a pleasure to report so many successes during the summer.

Hopefully this will continue and next year there is even a tour to the Isle of Wight, so plenty to enjoy.

Mike Canning