The Colclough and Sidmouth Doubles Tournament was battled out over three days earlier in the month, writes Mike Taylor.

In general there were some very encouraging performances.

There were some very close games and several of the pairs could have reached the semi-final and final stages but for the odd point dropped.

Graeme and Helen Pryor contested one semi-final with Roger Hendy and Paul Griew, with Roger and Paul winning +1.

Tony Dustan-Smith and his partner John Davies won their semi-final against Ian Friedlander and Anne Reece +5.

The final was played out in the afternoon. It was a strange game with chances for both sides – some were taken, some were missed. John Davies produced a series of amazing long roquets which kept his side in the game. Roger played very defensively, protecting his partner Paul from challenges.

However, this policy, although it slowed Tony and John down, didn’t actually score hoops when they were needed.

Tony’s knowledge of the game and experience of playing doubles with high handicap partners came through, with the result that Tony and John won the game +4.

As usual, it was a very enjoyable social event with lunches and teas provided by Gill Hodge.