Sidmouth bowlers gathered together on Bank Holiday Monday to wish one of their members many congratulations on his 100th birthday, writes Jill Lewis.

It was a weekend of celebrations for Alan Charlton, but over 60 friends and colleagues at the bowls club wanted to add their good wishes, and held a surprise coffee morning party.

Escorted into the club by President Christa Turner, he had a standing ovation.

After speeches, Alan cut the birthday cake, made by a fellow bowler, Brenda Casson, and thanked everyone for the unexpected event. Although no longer an actual bowler, Alan comes to the club nearly every day for his coffee and a 'catch-up' chat. Well done Alan, may we continue to serve you for a very long time!

Congratulations to Elaine Reed for getting through to the next round of the County Singles. This is only Elaine's second outdoor season.

Through to their next round of the Over 50s County Pairs are Pat Ashton-Pritchard and Jill Bishop.

The first round of the National Mixed Pairs was played at Sidmouth - Ron and Sylvia Cook beating International bowlers from Madeira, Josh and Carrie Hadfield 19-16; their next round, also played at Sidmouth, was against Lee Haywood of Shaldon and Amanda Higginbotham of Kings, both England players. A very close game but Sylvia and Ron lost on the last end 17-19. In the Over-50s League against Budleigh, Sidmouth won four points - Pat Ashton-Pritchard, Jill Lewis, Jill Bishop 21-11; Sue Mison Mary Smith, Wendy Limpus 15-21.

The only ladies’ friendly game this week was against Seaton, who just won. Sidmouth's best rink was - Mary Turner, Sue Mison, Sheila Burnand and Jill Bishop 24-19; followed by Rita Daw, Jill Lewis, Val Newnham and Chris Hamer 20-19; Jean Brimson, Margaret Colman, Sheila Graham and Eilenn Hewett 15-24.