Valerie Newnham hosted her Sidmouth Ladies’ Captain’s Day last Thursday (August 14), writes Susie Bonnell.

The occasion was marked by a triples game of five rinks with the ladies sporting red, white and blue as opposed to the normal bowls’ uniform.

Although this was to be a day of great fun and laughter, Valerie chose the red, white and blue theme to match her tribute to the memory of those affected by the First World War, which started 100 years ago.

It was a timely reminder to pause for thought on the huge sacrifices made by men and women, with particular reflection on how the roles of women changed forever.

Valerie’s ladies showed their mettle, bowling in squally rain (with only a five minute retreat indoors during a heavy deluge).

There was a lovely lunch post-match where some special lady guests were heralded for their part in the cub’s history and the guest of honour, club president, Harold Casson, toasted Valerie and all the ladies.

So it was special thanks to Valerie for her year as Outdoor Ladies’ Captain and all the work she and her Committee had put in to make it a very successful day.

If there was a prize for best hat - it would have gone to Anita Mason for her umbrella Union Jack hat - most appropriate!