The Gents just edged out the Ladies in the traditional internal match at Sidmouth Bowls Club.

Last played in 2019, when the Ladies won by 10 shots, it was an excellent turn-out this year with seven playing rinks. At half-time, the men were just a little ahead, with the score of 53 - 46.

At the finish of 18 ends, the score was apparently level and the Ladies were happy with the draw, but a quick recheck showed the Gents had won by just three points, 106-103, although the Ladies won on four of the seven rinks.

It was a great afternoon with lots of laughter, banter and great rivalry. Strangely, this year’s tea ladies, Joan Crook, Janice Quinn and skip Carol Smith, along with Chris Radburn, were the Ladies’ top rink in 2019 with a great score of 30 - 10.

This year, the top Ladies rink was Sue Clint, Carol Timms and skip Jane Painter, 16 - 5. The Gents top rink was Brian Deam, Jason Quinn, and skip Peter Mison with a great score of 25 - 6

Then came our first local friendly match against our neighbours from Seaton. A lovely sunny afternoon and at the finish, Seaton were the winners, the final score was Seaton 62 Sidmouth 53. However, we did have one winning rink and that was our Lady Captain Susie Bonnell and her team of Brian Deam, David Bates and Sue Turner, 15 - 13.

There is lots of practice going on at the moment, as some of the County Competitions start soon. Also, the Ladies and Men’s Exeter and District Triples Leagues are in full swing.

The very popular Tuesday morning mixed umbrella is also up and running. This season, it is being mainly run by Maggie Masson, with help and guidance from David Timms.

The Sunset umbrella is also up and running, starting last Sunday with a "Sausage Sizzler Supper" evening. That’s not easy to say quickly! This is mainly being run once again by Liz and Steve Boyle.

Sidmouth Herald: Seaton players and our winning teamSeaton players and our winning team (Image: Carol Smith)