How nice it is to be bowling outside once again! Our President, Helen Lancaster, said "This is what we have all been waiting for" when she welcomed members to the first bowling meeting of the new season on Saturday April 25th.
We had a friendly afternoon's bowling to a Round Robbin format, organised by Bob Tennant, using different types of scoring on each rink. This was followed by a splendid 'Bring and Share' tea. It always amazes me what a splendid choice of food this always produces.
This was the first opportunity for most of us to see the two beautiful wooden bench seats that Betty Burnett has presented to the club in memory of her late husband Jack. He joined the club in 1988 after switching from Golf and quickly made progress to become a County bowler in 1994. He was a past President of the club and served 3 years from 1998 to 2000. He was very well known as an umpire and was a member of the English Bowls Association. However, we shall always remember, with great affection, the man himself. There are so many words to describe him but I will remember him as a true gentleman, quiet and unassuming, but always having time for people, to help and advise
The first two weeks were busy with friendly matches at weekends and some midweek, and added to this the Men's over 60's Team are playing their league matches on a Wednesday afternoon, and men's and ladies teams play in leagues on Thursday evenings.
To encourage those who have never bowled before, to come and 'have a go', open days were held over the early May Bank Holiday weekend. The result was very encouraging and over the three sessions more than 30 people came along. On the Monday afternoon session the wind was extremely cold without any sunshine, but this didn't put off the aspiring bowlers and competition was keen.
The reward was a welcome cup of tea and slices of home-made cakes. Thanks are due especially to Sue Risdon and Barbara Heaton, who were the main organisers, and also to all those members who came along to assist.
Penny Gale.
Hemyock - A Village on the Blackdown Hills
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