The August Bank Holiday weekend saw Paulton Bowls Club hold its club finals. This annual occasion saw three consecutive days of competitive bowling, backed up by superb weather and a large proportion of the club’s members in attendance.

The really hot weather made the green very fast and watching members were grateful for frequent refreshments provided by the ladies, led by Di Ball and Joy Church.

New members were involved in many of the team games, but they also had their own Ladies’ and Gents’ Finals, which turned out to be quality affairs. Anna Blackwell showed her ability with a super victory over Sandra Yeomans, but it was interesting throughout.

In a quality Men’s Final, Jeremy Alsop just edged out a competitive Mark Griffiths in a thrilling match. Those watching were treated to a display of excellent bowling from these new bowlers.

For the first time in his bowling career at Paulton, Chris Ponting won the Men’s Singles, beating previous regular winner, Bob Richards. Another regular winner, Lesley Beard, saw off the challenge of Carol Mears in a highly competitive match. Lesley then went on to take the spoils in the Champion of Champions contest against the Men’s winner, Chris Ponting.

Whilst the players were fully involved in the games, so many of the other members helped to make the weekend memorable for all. The Competition Secretary, Dave Ball, ably assisted by his wife, Di, worked tirelessly over the weekend to put the ‘icing on the cake’ for all of their efforts in running the competitions throughout the season.

Joyce and John Denning were consistent factors in helping with arrangements for what turned out to be one of the most successful weekends that the club has seen; both socially and playing-wise.

Winners of the competitions were as follows – Men’s Singles winner: Chris Ponting, Ladies’ Singles winner: Lesley Beard, Men’s Two Wood winner: Bob Richards, Ladies’ Two Wood winner: Shirley Meek. Mixed Pairs winners: Noreen Chambers and Bob Richards, George Beale Trophy: Trevor Bridcut and Bob Richards, Ruth Francis Trophy: Joyce Denning and Daphne Dodgson, Fixed Jack winner: Annabelle Curtis, Wilf Cope Trophy: Lesley and Dave Beard. Mixed Triple winners: Annabelle Curtis, Steve Chivers and Trevor Francis, New Bowlers Men’s Singles: Jeremy Alsop, New Bowlers Ladies’ Singles: Anna Blackwell, Champion of Champions: Lesley Beard.

Bob Richards