News from the Bowls Club - April 2008

During the winter Hemyock bowlers, those who bowl on the Green, go their various ways for the bowling experience. Some play indoors at Wellington, or at Taunton, or the club in Vivary Park, Taunton. And, of course, we now have a very successful Short Mat Bowling Club in Hemyock itself. This has attracted many local people and perhaps it will be an introduction to some to come and try out the long game on the Green this summer.

Some of Hemyock Bowlers enjoyed a very pleasant afternoon in February when they travelled to Bishopswood to play a friendly match with Bishopswood short mat bowlers. This association between the two clubs started a couple of years ago, and one or two fixtures are arranged each year, playing on the Green at Hemyock in the summer, and in Bishopswood Village Hall on the short mats in the winter. This recent match started well for Hemyock and at half time they were winning by 4 points. However, it all changes after tea, as they say, and at the end of play Bishopswood had 64 points to Hemyock's 50. Bishopswood were thanked for their hospitality and splendid tea and it is hoped that a return match can be arranged before the start of the summer season.

Sandra Featherstone, for Hemyock, thanked Bishopswood for their hospitality and wonderful tea. She said that it had been a very pleasant afternoon and Hemyock look forward to a return match before the start of the summer season.

A dinner at the Catherine Wheel, organised by Helen Lancaster, attracted 27 club members and was a very enjoyable occasion. For those of us who don't live in Hemyock it was lovely to meet up again and exchange news.

The next get-together will be in the Clubhouse at the Bowling Club on Monday 31st March from 6.30pm onwards. This is a pre-season meeting when subscriptions can be paid, members can state their availability for 'Friendly Matches' and entries for club competitions will be accepted. It is also a chance for any prospective members to come along and meet people and see what happens at the club. Do come along if you are interested, even if you haven't played bowls before but would like to know how to start. You will be sure to get a warm welcome.

The other thing in the offing for prospective new members, including those who have never bowled before, are 'Open Sessions' at the club. A chance to come and meet members, see what goes on at the club, and have a go on the green with supervision. The dates and times for those sessions are :- Sunday, May 11th, 10.00am to 12noon or 2.00pm to 6.00pm. And Tuesday, May 20th 2.00pm to 5.00pm or 6.00pm to 8.00pm.

The season opens on Saturday, April 26th with an informal afternoon's bowling and a fun competition.

Penny Gale