Sidmouth Bowls Club hosted a Section 3 match against Devon County Ladies, with Liz Healey from Madeira captain for the day.

County President Sandra Andrews, along with County Administrator Vicky Hingston, brought six rinks of Lady County players from various Devon Clubs. At half-time, the County team led 63-50 and they increased that lead to 119-77 after the tea break.

In the semi-final of the Men’s County Foxlands, Sidmouth took on Seaton and the home team of John Richards, John Chew, John Mason and skip Ken Wheeler had an excellent win of 26-16, giving the away rink a healthy cushion of 10 shots.

The away team of Paul Irvine, Roger Stewart, Mick Cox and skip David Timms lost by just six shots, 18-24, giving Sidmouth an aggregate victory of 44-40 and a place in the Section Final against Madeira.

In the County Grater Pairs competition, two Sidmouth pairs reached the Section 3 Group A semi-final. We were hoping they would both get through, so at least one duo could represent Sidmouth in the play-off against Group B at Seaton on June 23. 

Sadly, it wasn't to be, although Andrew Lowe and Ken Wheeler had an amazing win of 23-7, so will be in the final. The second pair of Paul Irvine and Brian Smith fought back valiantly from a 15-1 deficit to take the match in the final end with the scores level. Unfortunately, their opponents just pinched a winning shot after a freakish deflection.

Finally, Sidmouth hosted a mixed home friendly against our South Dorset neighbours. The day started with organisers rather concerned about the threatened thunderstorms and it was arranged that, if necessary, there would be a dash for cover to the clubhouse. 

Thankfully, there was no need, as, although they did get a little damp before tea, the weather remained dry for the second half of a game that was played in a very friendly atmosphere and they are looking forward to our visit to Dorset later in the season. 

Sidmouth actually won on two of the three rinks and overall by 55-37.  The top home rink comprised Alan Donaldson, Steve Boyle and skip Carol Timms with a great score of 18-7.

By Carol Smith