Bowling Club News

Outdoor Bowlers will soon be emerging again to enjoy the vagaries of the weather and, hopefully, some good bowling. The start of the season at Hemyock is on Sunday, April 18th when all members are invited to what is called 'The Opening of The Green'. This is always a fun afternoon and I am sure Bob Tennant, who will be organising the afternoons play, will devise some interesting and challenging games for us. As usual, members have been asked to bring a contribution for the 'Bring and Share' tea. As you will see from the advert in this edition there will be some 'Open Days' for new bowlers. Do come along if you are at all interested as these sessions are always fun and it will only cost you £2 per session.

It was good to have some social activities over the winter period to keep the club together and this year the clubhouse was used to hold a members Christmas party on December 12th. About 30 people came along and enjoyed a very sociable evening. A welcome drink of hot punch, with quite a kick to it, got us all in the mood for partying. Hot food of Jacket potatoes with a choice of fillings, followed by mince pies, and then we were all ready to enjoy various board and card games. It all made for a very relaxed and enjoyable evening thanks to the work that the committee had put in.

Again in the Clubhouse early in March the ladies organised a three course dinner. Although I wasn't able to go I heard that his was also a very successful event, the usual delicious food and, of course, good company.

A milestone in bowling history is that Men and Women bowlers have now been united under one managing authority. Hemyock are now under 'Bowls Devon' and we have heard that Sue Trott will be the Senior Vice-President for the Year 2011, which is good news for a small club like ours - well done Sue!

The Committee have been busy thinking ahead. They have entered the club in something new for this season, the 'Two Counties League'. This is a mixed men/women competition with most games played in the evenings, which will suit those members who have work or other daytime commitments. It will also be good to have competitive bowling with men and women playing together.

This season we are going to support the charity 'CLIC Sargent' which supports children with cancer and their families. A collecting box will be available in the clubhouse when open, and a fundraising event held later in the year.

Penny Gale