Although there have not been any friendly games played at Sidmouth Bowling Club this past two weeks, it has at least given the opportunity for members to give some thought to what they might buy their significant other for Christmas.

Although there have not been any friendly games played this past two weeks, it has at least given the opportunity for members to give some thought to what they might buy their significant other for Christmas. Well, what about a set of coloured bowls? Rather garish primary coloured ones have been about for some time but still only a few people in the club use them. Change is slow probably because, a) old bowls never ever wear out; b) they cost up to £200 a set; c) everyone playing with you knows exactly where your bowls are, often to some amusement. Nonetheless, the new generation of bowls are a joy to behold. The colours are subtle and often have a deep sparkle, like gazing at an exotic bird's egg. Even if you are having a terrible game and your coloured bowls are splattered around the rink like a rash, you can still have great pride in possession. The next generation will possibly have a hologram or maybe an inbuilt GPS to home onto the jack!