This coming weekend (September 1 and 2) sees the Sidmouth Bowls Club Finals being contested, writes Carol Smith.

We all have fingers crossed for good weather – or, at the very least, no rain please to spoil what is always a great occasion of fine bowling.

This year we have a real mix of finalists with some players set to take part in their maiden final matches while others go into the weekend having previously appeared at two or three such occasions while one person is making what is now an annual appearance!

We do, of course, wish them all success and those that don’t quite make it, well done, for getting as far as you have and remember, there is always next year.

Many moons ago I personally reached five finals, but ended up losing them all, and the best advice I can offer – never give up believing!