Sidmouth bowlers return to the green, but under the ‘new norm’ of social distancing

Usually when we start our outdoor bowling season at the latter end of April the weather is pretty unkind, writes Carol Smith.

Generally, we are struck by wind and rain – and some most unpleasant low temperatures!

However, in 2020 the late spring and early summer weather was wonderful.

It would certainly have been excellent conditions to launch a new outdoor season in.

Sadly though, the presence of the Coronavirus pandemic put paid to any hopes of bowls – as we know it – below sun kissed skies!

That said, the beautiful weather has certainly help everyone cope with lockdown.

At long last I am able to report on some action, albeit under the strictest of conditions.

Our clubhouse does remain closed, but we can access the required equipment from our outdoor stores.

In order that we ensure everyone stays safe the instruction is quite simple: ‘Sanitize, sanitize and sanitize’

Now that the social distancing has been tweaked from two-metres to one-metre plus it does mean we can accommodate that many more bowlers and so it is great for the soul that we can now meet up with other bowling friends and have some friendly competitive roll ups.

However, and indeed, sadly, for some of us there will be no socialising in the bar afterwards! Oh my, how we long for a return to playing our sport under ‘normal’ conditions – this ‘new norm’ takes some getting used to!