May is such a busy month for bowlers - particularly those players who’ve entered the County and National competitions, writes Susie Bonnell.

Sidmouth ladies were in Inter Club action – a national competition – when they took on Holsworthy from North Devon on a netural green, kindly provided by Morchard Bishop Bowls Club.

The long journey proved worth it for Sidmouth, for, playing in glorious sunshine throughout, they won on both rinks and now play another North Devon side, Bradworthy, in the next round on June 7.

Last Friday Sidmouth welcomed another touring team - Royal Wootton Bassett - to contest a mixed friendly match.

There was home success on five of the six rinks, with the top rink for Sidmouth skipped by John Mason and his team of Carol Timms, Chris Radburn and Bob Daniels.

Another touring side - Norwest Midsomer Norton – were the visitors’ for a Sunday match. The Somerset side arrived in the town early enough to take a pre-match lunch and enjoy the wonderful Sidmouth sea air.

Not forgetting it was an English bank holiday weekend, and we were all happy enough to say it didn’t rain!

Once again, the home bowlers proved to be in fine form, winning on three of the six rinks and taking the match by 127 shots to 98.

Much of the final margin of victory was due to a terrific performance from Brian Smith (skip), David Timms, Roy Eglon and Janet Thomson, who won 40-8.

Earlier this week, Sidmouth ladies played host to the Devon County Ladies’ President’s team.

It is always an honour to host these county lady players who hail from far and wide across Devon, playing an extremely competitive and high standard match. Whilst this year’s county president, Ruth Voysey, was sadly unable to attend due to ill health, she was well represented by the immediate past president, Madeira’s Jackie Howard.

Apart from one heavy downpour, which more or less coincided with a timely break for a sumptuous bowlers’ tea, the day stayed dry and was thoroughly enjoyed by all who took part.

Sidmouth ladies’ captain, Karen Hollingdale, with her team mates, had a tremendous day’s play, winning on five of the six rinks.

Indeed, captain Karen and her team of Jill Bishop, Jean Brimson and Ann Capon secured the top score of the day.