With the outdoor season drawing to a close, the men won the Somerset County Wedmore Plate when they travelled to Chew Stoke and beat Clevedon Prom by 20 shots. A close game, losing on three rinks by four shots, but Dave Chamberlain’s rink made up the difference to win the trophy quite convincingly.

However, in the County League, it’s been a mixed bag. The A team finished a creditable 8th in Premier Division One, which, with a little more fortune, the result could have been better, having lost several games by less than five shots. Unfortunately, the B team did not have a very successful season, having only won three games, and as a result are relegated to East Two Division, where they will compete against the C team, who had a good season, finishing mid-table.

With all the league and cup games finished, the lads now concentrate on the charity games, playing against five other local clubs, where the object is to raise funds for selected local charities.

As the season comes to an end, we look forward to the club competition Finals taking place next Saturday.

Lastly, the club are very proud that three of its members qualified for the National Finals at Leamington. Jan Dart and Ailsa Midwinter, in the Ladies Pairs, and Terry Priddle in the two wood singles. Unfortunately, they were not able to bring home the goodies, with Terry Priddle drawn against Nicky Brett, former world indoor bowls champion, in the first round. As county semi-finalists all three go forward to the county finals on Sunday, 8th September, so we wish them well.

Meanwhile, the club are preparing for the start of the indoor season on 16th September and invitations are given to anyone interested in looking for an active winter activity. Whether an outdoor bowler wishing to try indoor bowls or complete novices, all are welcome. For those new to bowls, we have a first-class team of coaches available to assist you into a game that can be played by persons of all ages. In fact, our age range is from 9 to 90 years of age and it’s a free year’s membership for new members of any experience.

If you are interested in joining us, please contact either John Hansford: 01761 415957 or Don Dart: 01761 471019. Information can also be obtained through our website: purnellbowls.co.uk.

John Hansford