AFTER the long winter months, members of Crediton Bowling Club were delighted to be back for the Opening Day on Saturday, April 20.
Nearly 80 members and guests were in attendance as President Joan Martin welcomed everyone and thanked the greenkeepers for all the preparation they had made to ensure that the green was looking as immaculate as ever.
She wished everyone the best of luck in whatever competitions they were entering and hoped that the sun would continue to shine for the coming months.
She then had the privilege of bowling the first wood of the season.
This was followed by a “spider” where all bowlers gathered around the green and delivered one bowl towards the Jack in the centre of the green.
Closest to the Jack would win a bottle of whisky and this honour fell to the ladies Captain, Shuana Miles.
A total of 43 members then played 12 ends of bowls before retiring to the Clubhouse to share in a bring-a-plate buffet and to enjoy an odd tipple or two.
Are you aware that the Club offers social membership?
Only a week in and there has already been five friendly matches resulting in wins against Tiverton West End, Heavitree, Barnstaple Rock Park and Abbrook Park with one defeat coming at the hands of near neighbours Morchard Bishop.
This must also have been the coldest day of the year so far! The Thursday evening league started with the A team defeating the B team 8-2 in Division 1 and the C team defeating Madeira 10-0.
So a busy five months is up and running. Now is the time to come and try the game if you’ve ever wondered what it is like to play.
Coaches are available to help anyone try to understand better the rules and the game. Just ask anyone you see at the green.
Fixtures for the coming week:
Thursday, May 2 - EDL B v Topsham B - 6.30pm
Saturday, May 4 - Friendly v Combe Martin - 2pm
Sunday, May 5 - Friendly v Barnstaple United Services - 2pm
Monday, May 6 - Internal competition - Denford Triples - 2pm
Wednesday, May 8 - Over 60s A v Marina A - 2.30pm
Thursday, May 9 - EDL A v Topsham B - 6.30pm
Thursday, May 9 - EDL B v Exonia A - 6.30pm.
Mike Canning