The report for this week is one of “finals.”

Firstly, Ottery St Mary Bowling Club held their annual finals days on the weekend of 4th and 5th September, when every competition that has been played throughout the season is completed.

This year, the trophy engraver will probably be fed up with engraving the name of ‘M Kelsey’, which will appear on at least eight trophies. Husband and wife combination of Mike and Marion proved to be almost unbeatable as they swept the board, winning eight competitions between them.

Modest as ever, after his success, Mike simply said: “it may never happen again”. The names of other members including Margaret Bright, Dave Brown, Steve Goodenough, Ryan Seers and Carol Bennett will also be engraved on varying trophies.

Secondly, the club played its final match of the season against Brixham St Mary’s. There are two bowling clubs in Brixham, so inevitably some members made it to the wrong club!

Undeterred by a later than scheduled start, Ottery came out winners by107 shots to 87, but a tie registered on rinks, with a score of three all. On this occasion the top rink was Carol Keating, David Rose, Sharon Kenny and, guess who – Mike Kelsey!

The Final Drive took place on Sunday and bright sunshine was the order of the day, proving that summer can come in September.

Almost 40 members played a round robin tournament, with the top rink being Eric Richardson, Mike Cousins and Marion Kelsey (again!). An old trophy designed especially for this occasion has been located and this will be presented at the annual dinner. Once all matches were finished, the members enjoyed a roast dinner prepared by the catering team, who really excelled themselves.

The season is now finished, although some members will be playing indoor matches at Honiton during the winter. However, it should be recorded that one member – Charlie Griffin, was so keen to ensure that he could play even in the fading light, he devised his own lighting system for the final informal club night of the season.

The 2022 season will commence on Sunday, 17th April.

Sidmouth Herald: Ottery St Mary bowlers that took part in the Saturday action. Picture:OSMBCOttery St Mary bowlers that took part in the Saturday action. Picture:OSMBC (Image: Archant)