In the last few days (apart from Wednesday) summer finally came to Devon and Ottery enjoyed an away friendly against Belmont Bowling Club, Exeter.

In the last few days (apart from Wednesday) summer finally came to Devon and Ottery enjoyed an away friendly against Belmont Bowling Club, Exeter. On a lovely evening there was a big turnout of club members, for the first time this season, to play 21 ends on each rink. Pinces Gardens Bowling Club visited on Saturday and on Sunday, Ottery played an away game against Feniton, again in brilliant weather. The club has two events of special importance over the next week. On Saturday, May 30, by special invitation, Ottery is to play an away match against the Royal Household Bowling Club, Windsor Castle and a coachload of Ottregian bowlers will make the journey. I hope to report on this in due course. The second event is an Open Evening on Friday, June 5. You are very warmly invited to come and visit the club from 5.45 p.m. when you will be able to try your hand at bowling without charge, using club equipment. All we ask is that you bring a pair of flat-soled shoes or trainers. You will not be expected to make any decision about club membership. Refreshments will be available.Our membership includes retired people, and, increasingly, younger people who have often given up the more active sports, such as football, but still want a competitive sport. It's a very sociable game, and men and women compete on level terms. The cost of bowling is only a fraction of golf club membership. The club also organises various social events throughout the year and the licensed bar is busy on these occasions and on all bowling days. There are four qualified coaches who give their time free to help members improve their game. The club has a good mix of couples, singles, widows and widowers with little sign of the cliques which could spoil the atmosphere. We like to be competitive, but with a light-hearted approach and this is the reason for our success. Please come to the Open Evening and, if you would like more information, please ring Gerry Beighton on (01404) 814132 or look at our website at www.otterystmarybowlingclub.org.uk Don't miss out on an opportunity to discover a wonderful sport which gives so many people so much pleasure. Julie Pinder, who joined the club last summer, bowling in the match against Feniton with husband Nick standing behind her and watching intently.