As the season nears its climax, it would appear that the bowlers from Ottery St Mary are becoming more proficient and successful in their games, whether they be friendlies or competitive competitions.

On Saturday, under a very warm sun, the annual Redfern Trophy, sponsored by Redferns of Ottery, was held at Strawberry Lane. This is an invitation competition with invites being sent to many of the clubs in the locality, and the match is played on a round robin basis with all teams playing each other.

I am pleased to report that Ottery won the trophy and also two of the Ottery teams gained second and third places. This is the first time in living memory that Ottery have secured the top three places.

The winning team was made up of Eric Richardson. Margaret Treyhurn, Shirley Fewtrell and skip Ray Luscombe. After a superb high tea provided by the catering team, the Director of Redferns, Mr Lee Maddicks, made the presentation to the winning team.

It should be recorded that Ottery St Mary Bowling Club are extremely grateful to Redferns for their continued support of this competition, and of the club throughout the year. The team from Lyme Regis voiced the appreciation of all players in thanking Ottery and Redferns for organising such a superb afternoon of bowls, and everyone commented that they are already looking forward to next year’s event.

The success continued into Sunday, when Chardstock travelled to Ottery, but went home with a resounding loss as the home team recorded an overwhelming victory. It is interesting to note that the players in the top team are totally different from those mentioned in the Saturday match. On this occasion, they were Keith Thorley, Brian Hammond, Sharon Kenny and Chris Hawke.

Individuals are also making their mark on the County scene with Sue Cole, playing four woods, winning through to the last eight of the county competition for un-badged players. A men’s triple consisting of Richard Bland, Tony Panzeri and Ray Luscombe have similarly won through to the next round of their county triples competition. Success does breed success!