Report for weekending 26th September 2021.

Too soon the last week of the season has arrived, we only have one friendly on Thursday, the club night Friday and closing day Saturday, this year has flown by.

And so on a cloudy afternoon West End welcomed members from Topsham along to our green for a game that had been rearranged due to the Covid situation this year. We knew they would be short two players and on the day, another was required. Bob Enright and Chris Hammett had already been picked to play for Topsham and a quick phone call brought in Dennis Blackwell.

Just as play was about to start the clouds decided to drop some rain on us, but it only lasted for two ends. It proved to be a good game for West End who lost on one rink but won on three and overall.

Barry Kerslake’s team were one ahead at tea but failed to keep up the pressure and fell behind in the second half.

 Chris Slade’s team, after the sixth end were always in control of the game, despite the efforts of Dennis and Chris to deprive them of victory.

Tony Sykes and his team, like Chris, were always in control despite dropping a couple of threes during the game.

I’m not sure what happened to Gill Callaghan’s team, for if you look at the card they played 19 end, dropped five on the 19th but still won.

C Andrews, E Browning, B Pulsford & B Kerslake      14 – 17

J Cole, B Moore, R Harder & C Slade                           20 – 12

S Moore, T Gribble, D Butt & T sykes                          20 – 15

M Slade, B Furness, J Barrie & G Callaghan                17 – 15

West End 71, Topsham 59.

Friday had 8 members turn out for the last Club night roll up of the season.

Saturday was a fourfold day, we had our closing day internal game, a wonderful buffet, a presentation to ex-President Ken Berry for 60 years at West End and finally the presentation of trophies for this year’s internal club competition winners.

We started the afternoon with a spider, Sonia Moore was closest to the jack and won the wine, Tony Sykes landed on the 50p and well deserved his bottle. 24 Members then fought out two rounds of pairs and triples to decide a winner of the closing day game with Barry Kerslake winning his bottle on count back. Dennis Blackwell also picked up a box of Hero chocolates for the lowest score.  

After the game we moved into the Club House and sat down to a wonderful buffet prepared by Edna, Doreen, Gillian, Beryl, Susan Howard and others I’m sure, thank you all so much, it was lovely.

Once we had finished eating, Chairman Ken Powney asked President Norman Howard to make a presentation to long time Club member Ken Berry, Ken joined West End Bowling Club in 1961, during that time he has served in many committee positions, representing the club in numerus competitions as well as playing for the county. Congratulations Ken.

Norman then went on to make the presentations to this year’s club competition winners and runners up.

Men’s Handicap; - Dicky Clarke – Andy mason.

Men’s Pairs: - Bob Pulsford & Andy mason – Ken Powney & Bryan Moore.

Ladies Pairs: - Sonia Moore & Gillian Callaghan – Caroline Harder & Gillian Hake.

Mixed pairs; - Maureen Robertson & Andy Mason – Angie Hill & John Clapp.

Men’s Unbadged; - Andy Mason – Ken Powney.

Men’s two wood; - Dicky Clarke – Barry Kerslake.

Men’s over 60’s; - Dicky Clarke – Andy Mason.

The Open Singles; - Dicky Clarke – Mrs. Chris Slade.

Ladies Championship; - Chris Slade – Gillian Callaghan.

Men’s Championship; - Andy Mason – Bob Pulsford.

See photos in Gallery.

I’ll close this year out with a quick summary of this year’s friendlies. We played 23 in total, 13 at home and 10 away and thanks must go to Fixture Secretary Doreen for organising that many what with Covid and the weather. We won 7, 5 at home, but lost 16, maybe that’s why some of our skips don’t play friendlies, they don’t like losing, but then again IF they played maybe we would not lose so many. That’s all from me.

Winter well everyone. See you next year and let’s hope it’s a better year then this has been (Covid and weather wise).

 

Report for the Internal Club Competition’s Final’s.

I would like to start by thanking all this years Competition entrants, for without you there would be no finals, some of you may not have reached a final this year but there is always next year. I would also like to thank all the members who throughout the season have marked competitions and or assisted in anyway to help us get to the finals. Not forgetting the greens team who have provided us with such a good green to play our finals on this weekend.

Our first final this year was the Men’s Handicap, played between Andy Mason and Dicky Clarke on Friday evening. Dicky was quickly into his rhythm, finding both line and length and removing Andy’s shot bowl on a few occasions. After just 19 ends the victory was Dicky’s. Congratulations.

With the dew still on the green on Saturday morning it was time for both the Men’s and Ladies pair’s finals. For the men it was Andy Mason and Bob Pulsford to play Bryan Moore and Ken Powney. Bryan and Ken took an early lead, but it was not long before Andy and Bob got their “A” game going, took control of the game and went on to take the victory. Well played and congratulations to Andy and Bob.

The Ladies finalists were Caroline Harder and Gillian Hake who were to play Sonia Moore and Gill Callaghan. Caroline and Gillian got off to the worst of start dropping 5 shots on the first end, they were never able to catch back up. Although both pairs scored well Sonia and Gill edged further in front and took the victory, congratulations to you both.

In the early afternoon Dicky Clarke played Barry Kerslake in the Men’s two wood. Dicky had found a winning formular last evening and employed it again in this game, and it worked. Despite some resistance from Barry, Dicky edged to victory once again. Well played Dicky.

The afternoons highlight was the Mixed pairs, this year’s finalists were Maureen Robertson and Andy Mason who would play Angie Hill and John Clapp. Maureen and Andy took an early lead only for Angie and John to comeback and take control and the lead for a few ends. Maureen and Andy then score on five successive ends, taking the lead back and going on to win the game. Well played all of you and congratulations to Maureen and Andy.

After a short break Andy was back out this time to play the Men’s unbadged against Ken Powney. Just as the game was about to start, so too did the rain, that fine Devon drizzle. Both being hardy or mad they took to the green anyway. Andy quickly took control and never looked back despite Kens stubborn resistance. Congratulations Andy third win of the day.

Come Sunday morning and the sun was out for the first game of the day, the men’s over 60’s between Andy Mason and Dicky Clarke. Andy started well and quickly took the lead, but on the 19th end he moved the jack to Dicky’s woods and dropped 2 shots. Dicky then changed the jack length to his desired length and was soon in control of the game. After 26 ends the score was tied at 20 each. It was Dicky who went on to win the last end and take the victory. Well played Dicky.

After lunch it was both the Ladies and Men’s Championship finals. For the Ladies it was Gillian Callaghan to play Chris Slade and the men’s game was between Bob Pulsford and Andy Mason.

After Chris got off to a good start, both ladies scored well to keep things tight, but Chris was always that little bit in front and despite Gillian scoring well in the last few ends it was Chris who got that all important 21st shot. Congratulations Chris.

The men’s final pitted the winners of the men’s pairs against each other, Bob started well and held the lead until the 12 end when Andy scored a 4, followed by 2 and 3, he was now on 19. Bob was on the ropes, but he managed to win 9 of the next 12 ends, but by only 1 shot each time. He was still behind. Andy managed to score his required 2 shots on the 27th end to secure victory. Well played Andy.

Finally, we reached the last final, the Open Singles, this game was between Mrs. Chris Slade and Dicky Clarke. By now the sun was hot as had the bowling been throughout the day. The watching members saw some very good bowling over 23 ends with both players taking shot only to have their bowl removed. In a steady scoring game Dicky was always 2 or 3 shots in front and that’s how it finished. Well played Dicky, congratulations.

Congratulations goes to all members who played in these finals, you gave the members two full days of great bowling.

Again, thanks to everyone who helped make the weekend the success it was.

Chris Hammett.  Competition Secretary.

 

Report for weekending 17th September 2021.

On Monday evening, Dicky Clarke played his open semi-final against Andy Mason, who had that day hurt his shoulder, in a one-sided game Andy, not wanting to do more damage with the finals upcoming, conceded the game after only 8 ends. Dicky will now play Chris Slade in the final.

On Tuesday afternoon, we welcomed our friends from Bideford along to our green for a friendly.

West End won on four rinks but lost on two and overall, you’ll see why below. West End 100, Bideford 107.

Tony Sykes’s team lead well until the tea break, after which Bideford got a second wind picking up 13 shots to Tony’s 5. Going into the last end tie, it was Bideford who won the end.

Ken Powley’s team were in a similar position, leading well at tea, then dropping several shots straight after, but they pulled themselves together scoring 10 shots in the last 4 ends.

 Richard Harder’s team never got started, only winning three ends the whole game, but they were up against a very strong Bideford side.

Chris Slade and her team were behind at tea, but she gave them a good talking to and put lots of sugar in their teas, so they came out fighting for the second half, picking up 13, including a 6, in the first 4 ends and going on to win.  

Dennis Blackwell’s team were level pegging until the 13th end when they took control of the game, going on to win well.

Bob Pulsford’s team were in front at tea and although Bideford won the second half, it was Bob who went on to win the game.

E Browning, M Robertson and T Sykes          19 – 20.

C Hammett, J Barrie and K Powney                22 – 13.

C Powney, T Gribble and R Harder                 6 – 36.

M Slade, B Furness and C Slade                    20 – 16.

B Kerslake, D Butt and D Blackwell               19 – 10.

C Andrews, B Moore and B Pulsford             14 – 12.

Moving on to Wednesday, five triples traveled to Uffculme for an away friendly, we draw one, won one, lost three and overall. West End 62, Uffculme 78.

Captain Bob French and his team looked to be heading for a loss but managed to win the last two ends, thereby drawing.

Brian Moore’s team were level at 12 ends but managed to pick up a 4 remaining in front for the rest of the game.

Bill Barry’s team dropped a five just before tea and were unable to pull it back in the second half.

Ken Barry and team, in a very tight game came so close, but just failed, losing by just one shot.

John Barrie’s team were going along nicely until the 15th end when the wheels came off, dropping an 8, 2,2, 4 over the last 4 ends. Sometimes this game can be cruel.

S Moore, M Slade and B French                    11 – 11.

T Gribble, B Enright and B Moore                 16 – 12.

C Andrews, G Reardon and B Berry              12 – 19.

B Furness, D Butt and K Barry                      11 – 12.

S Andrews, E Browning and J Barrie            12 – 24.

Thursday afternoon five triples again traveled out for a friendly (this time to Wellington), but back home the last semi-final, the lady’s pairs, was played out. Chris Slade and Angie Hill went into an early lead but dropped six shots on the 6th end, time for Sonia Moore and Gill Callaghan to lead a few ends. The game then swung back in Chris and Angie’s favour. By the 17th end it was all square, with both teams scoring 4 shots over the next four ends it was 21 all at 21 ends and so the game went into an extra end. The shot changed a few times, but at the end it was Sonia and Gill who got the winning shot and the game.

Away at Wellington there was bad news and good news, West End lost on two rinks but won on three and overall.

West End 87, Wellington 81.

Barry Kerslake’s team started slowly, dropping a 5 on the third end, but then pulled it together and won well.

Brian Moore’s team started well but dropped an eight on the 9th end and were never quite able to catch back up.

Captain Bob French, 10 – 4 up at tea, was that the problem stopping for tea, had a very bad second half as the score below shows.

Doreen Butt scored a 5 on the end before tea and went into tea tied, her team had a good second half going on to win.

Bob Enright’s team were always in control of their game.

E Browning, G Reardon and B Kerslake                 20 – 13.

S Andrews, C Harder and B Moore                         14 – 19.

C Andrews, S Grace and B French                         14 – 22.

M Slade, T Gribble and D Butt                                21 – 16.

B Furness, M Robertson and B Enright                 18 – 11.

 

Report for weekending 12th September 2021.

Our home Friendly on Monday against Taunton Deane was cancelled, as was the away friendly on Wednesday against Great Torrington.

On Tuesday morning, in the blazing sunshine, the last semi-final of the mixed pairs took place between Angie Hill and John Clapp and Sonia and Brian Moore. Angie and John took an early lead and never looked back. They will now play Maureen Robertson and Andy Mason in the final.

On Wednesday afternoon, the C team played their outstanding game away at Crediton, it was not to be their day as they lost on both rinks. Overall West End C 27, Crediton C 50.

M Slade, B Gregory and K Powney 16 – 23.

G Lee, B Furness and R Harder       11 – 27.

Ladies Captain Doreen Butt had invited the ladies of the Club to join her on Thursday afternoon for a bit of a fun afternoon and a cream tea. Competition Secretary Chris was called upon to arrange a game for the ladies. After much effort, and almost spoilt by the rain, he was able to get eight of the ladies on the green and play. Once the scores were adding up Chris gave Angie Hill first prize, with Sonia Moore and Debbie Stevens tied for second. After the bowling had finished the ladies, together with the non-players sat down to a splendid afternoon tea, prepared by Edna Browning and Doreen.

With the rain easing to just showers, we were able to play our friendly on Friday against a visiting team from Ilfracombe, well almost a team, we loaned them two of our players, Chris Slade and Shawn Grace. One draw, two close games and one runaway victory gave West End overall victory.

Barry Kerslakes team always seemed to be in control of the game but were tied at 13 all on the 15th end, managing to score a 4 and 2 and only dropping 2, the win was Barry’s. Dennis Blackwells team took the lead on the 6th end and maintained it throughout the game. Captain Bob French had Chris Slade playing against him, no excuse Bob, behind until the 13th end, he then picked up a few high scores to draw level on the 15th and take the lead, but then dropped 4 on the last end to tie the game. Bob Pulsford only lost five ends during the game and constantly scored 3 and 4 shots to win comfortably. West End 87, Ilfracombe 50.

T Gribble, M Robertson and B Kerslake     19 – 15.

E Browning, K Powney and D Blackwell   15 – 12.

C Powney, B Gregory and B French           17 – 17.

M Slade, D Butt and B Pulsford                  36 -  6.

Friday evening saw the Club Roll-up night crew turn up, despite the odd shower we managed to play a game, with Tony Sykes team beating Ken White’s in a “friendly battle”.

Saturday afternoon we welcomed Bridgwater along to West Exe Recreation ground for our annual fixture, our games against Bridgwater are always friendly affairs, is this because Bob French was once a member there, or, as is most likely, is it that they are just nice people. At the completion of the game the Bridgwater Captain declared that it was a tie, each Club having won on two rinks, but in truth West End lost overall. West End 49, Bridgwater 65.

 Bob French’s team never got started but looked like they enjoyed the afternoon anyway. Gill Callaghan’s team were in a similar situation, but I’m not so sure they even enjoyed their game. Tony Sykes team were always in control of their game, not only enjoying the bowls but at tea each member won on the raffle, a lucky table as one of the Bridgwater players won for the away side too. John Clapp’s team too were well in control of their game, even dropping six over the last three ends did not dent their score.

D Stevens, B Berry and B French         8 – 17.

M Stevens, J Barrie and G Callaghan   6 – 22.

 T Gribble, C Hammett and T Sykes   16 – 11.

E Browning, G Reardon and J Clapp   19 – 15.

No games were played on Sunday.

 

Report for weekending 5th September 2021.

There were no friendlies planed for Monday or Tuesday this week, so on Tuesday ken Powney and Brian Moore took advantage of a free day and played their Club Unbadged singles semi-final competition. Brian got off to a good start, but Ken not only caught up, on the 14th end, but took control of the game and went on to win.

On Wednesday morning, John Clapp played Chris Slade in the Club Open Singles semi-final. Just like the game yesterday John got off to a flyer and it took until the 27th end for Chris to pull up to John, scoring 2 on the next end Chris reached 21 first to take the victory.

Wednesday afternoon is the men’s Exeter over 60’s league, this week the A team were away at Heavitree and the B and C teams were at home, however a number of players in the C teams opponents, Tiverton Park, had Covid symptoms so their game was postponed. The B team entertained Morchard Bishop.

I cannot confirm or deny that the A team won on one rink and lost on the other and overall, as I have not seen their cards. Some would say that suggests the rumours are true.

The B team were fresh from an 8 point victory last week could they do it again, yes, they could. After a steady start Brian’s team picked up 4 shots on end 5 end and never looked back. Bob’s team were always in control of their game picking up two 7’s along the way to victory. So, with both teams winning they collected 8 points. West End B 52, Morchard Bishop 23.

 B Berry, T Gribble and B Moore 22 - 7.

B Enright, C Hammett and B French 30 - 16.

On Thursday, one semi-final of the Club Mixed Pairs Competition, between Maureen Robertson and Andy Mason and Gill Callaghan and Tony Sykes, was played. In a tight game the match was tied at 12 ends, but after a second glass of Doom Bar Andy lifted his game, going on to win. Their opponents are yet to be decided.

The usual members turned up on Friday night for the Club roll-up, and a fun night it was too.

Saturday morning saw the return to the Club of Angie Hill, who has been sick for a few weeks, to play Chris Slade in the Club Ladies Championship competition. After 10 ends the game was tight, but then Chris went up a gear and Angie was unable to stick with her. Chris will now play in the final.

On Sunday we took the short drive up the motorway to Taunton Vivary for the return game, Vivary having visited West End back in July. The afternoon turned out to be quite hot and the Taunton bowlers were pretty hot too, too hot for us anyway. Bob French’s team were ahead at tea but were pulled back in the second half. John Barrie’s team were behind at tea and although they had a better second half were unable to get the win. Brian Moore suffered a similar fate, level at tea but unable to score in the second half. Let’s just say that Bob Gregory’s team were up against it from the start.

West End 54, Taunton Vivary 85.

M Slade, B Enright and B Moore. 10 – 17.

E Browning, T Gribble and J Barrie. 14 – 17.

C Andrews, C Hammett and B French. 15 – 21.

S Andrews, S Moore and B Gregory.  15 – 30.

Report for weekending 29th August 2021

We started the week with the news that the friendly with Byways on Thursday has been cancelled and the friendly with Ilfracombe on Friday is postponed, (new date 10th September).

The greens team were out, as usual, bright and early on Monday morning and so when it came to the evening, Barry Kerslake and Bob Pulsford had a very good green to play their Men’s Internal Club 2 wood singles semi-final on.  A tight close game eventually went Barry’s way, who moves onto the final.

On Tuesday morning Bob Pulsford was again on the green, this time with Andy Mason in the Club’s Men’s pairs competition semi-final, their opponents were Tony Sykes and Dicky Clarke. Again, a close match, until the 20th end when Bob and Andy pick picked up a 6, although Tony and Dicky pulled 1 back on the last end, Bob and partner Andy came out the winners. They will now play Ken Powney and Brian Moore in the final.

On Tuesday afternoon we welcomed our friends from up the hill, Tiverton Borough Bowls Club, to our green for a friendly. Earlier in the month we had visited the Borough green where we had lost overall by 3 shots, we were out to balance the books. Such was the demand to play in this fixture, from both Clubs, that it was increased from 4 trips to 6. Borough won 2 and West End on 4 and overall.

West End 109, Borough 81.

S Andrews, D Butt and T Sykes 16 – 13.

E Browning, G Reardon and K Berry 23 – 9.

C Andrews, C Hammett and B French 26 – 11.

S Grace, B Berry and C Slade 14 – 18.

M Slade, B Moore and R Harder 10 – 18.

S Moore, T Gribble and B Kerslake 20 – 12.

Along comes Wednesday and the men’s Exeter over 60’s league. This week the A and C teams were both at home and the B team were away at Wellington.

The A team were playing against Uffculme A, losing on one rink but winning on the other and overall, taking 6 points.

D Blackwell, B Pulsford and D Clarke 12 – 18.

B Kerslake, T Sykes and A Mason        20 – 12.

West End A 32, Uffculme A 30.

The B team have never won at Wellington, so we knew we were in for a hard match, and so it proved. However, this time was to be different Bob French’s team were always in control of their game and after a slow start John Berrie’s team were level on the 17th end, the tension rose and John scored 3, giving both rinks the win and taking maximum points.

West End B 34, Wellington B 25.

B Enright, C Hammett and B French 17 – 11.

T Gribble, R Harder and J Berrie       17 – 14.

There were mixed fortunes for the C team, playing against Belmont B, as they lost on one rink, but won the other and overall. A very good result for Ken’s team who despite dropping a 6 on the 14th end still went onto win, gaining 6 points.  West End C 32, Belmont B 31.

M Stevens, M Newcombe and K Powney 20 – 14.

D Knowles, E Payne and B Gregory 12 – 17.

Thursday saw several internal competitions being played, in the morning, in the men’s handicap semi-final, Mike Slade played Andy Mason, in a close game throughout, after 23 ends both players had 20shots, with Andy winning the next end and the match and progressing to the final. 

In the evening in the men’s 2 wood singles semi-final Dicky Clarke played John Clapp, with Dicky coming away the winner, he will now play Barry Kerslake in the final.

Also, in the evening in the men’s over 60’s, Andy Mason played Tony Sykes. It was not to be Tony’s night and Andy went on to win. He will now play Dicky Clarke in the final.

Along came Friday, had Tony recovered from his game last evening, for he was to play Dicky Clarke in the open singles Club competition. Taking an early lead, it seemed to be going Tony’s way, but he found himself stuck on 20 shots, and was unable to get that last shot before Dicky overtook and won.

In the evening on Friday the usual group turned up for the Club Friday night roll-up and a thrilling night it turned out to be, well played everyone I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.

On Saturday morning, Dicky Clarke was again on the green, this time playing Brian Moore in the Club Handicap competition. After level pegging for a number of ends Dicky shortened the jack length and took control of the game, going on to win. Dicky will now play Andy Mason in the final.

And so we find ourselves at Bideford Victoria Park on Sunday for the return leg of the Steve Smith Cup. With West End holding a 10-shot lead from the home game, hopes were high that we might at last win the cup back. However, it was not to be, we lost on all rinks, even the one rink that was winning all the way to the 16th end somehow managed to drop 9 on the last two ends enabling their opponents to double their score and win…don’t ask…it’s bowling these things happen.

The overall scores for today’s match were West End 79, Victoria Park 128.

T Gribble, B Moore and G Callaghan 11 – 22.

S Andrews, S Moore and B Pulsford  14 – 25.

N Howard, B Kerslake and B French   8 – 22.

D Knowles, C Hammett and T Sykes 15 – 18.

C Powney, B Enright and K Berry     19 – 24.

C Andrews, K Powney and J Clapp   12 – 17.

Bideford Victoria Park retain the cup for another year, Captain John Connebear receives the cup from Steve Smith’s daughter Sheila Starke after the match. (See photo gallery)

 

Report for weekending 22nd August 2021.

The week started with us still on tour, see Monday’s report below.

No Club games were arranged for Tuesday but in the evening Andy Mason played Tony Sykes in the men’s Championship, with Andy winning.

Wednesday afternoon is the men’s Exeter over 60's league, this week the A and B teams were at home and the C team were away to Culm Vale C.

The A team played Crediton A losing on both rinks and overall, so no points this week. West End A 22, Crediton A 47.

R White, T Sykes and N Clarke 10 – 24.

B Kerslake, B Pulsford and D Clarke 12 – 23.

The B team on the other hand had a much better day, playing St. Thomas C, winning on one rink, drawing on the other and winning overall with 7 of the 8 points on offer. West End B 33, St. Thomas C 28.

B Barry, T Gribble and B Moore 18 – 13.

B Enright, R Harder and J Barrie 15 – 15.

Our C team had mixed fortunes at Culm Vale, winning well on one rink but loosing on the other and overall, only 2 points this week. West End C 27, Culm Vale C 29.

E Payne, B Gregory and K Powney  21 – 11.

G Lee, B Furness and G Reardon  6 – 18.

There were no club games on Thursday or Friday except for Friday night Club roll-up and internal competitions, in the morning on Friday Bob Pulsford played Nobby Clarke in the Men’s Championship, victory went to Bob after 24 ends, we now know the final will be between Bob Pulsford and Andy Mason. In the evening Tony Sykes and Mike Slade competed in the men’s handicap, with Mike coming out the winner.

We looked forward to our friendly on Saturday at Exonia worried that yet another game would be rained off. But no, the weather was kind, in his welcome address the Exonia Captain said he had arranged for any rain this afternoon to fall during tea break and that’s what happened. We were so lucky with the rain for as we stopped for tea it started, then stopped ten minutes later, and then just as the last wood of the last end was bowled again the rain fell and fell and fell.

As to the game we won on two rinks but lost on two and overall. Ken Berry’s team made a steady start but after scoring a 7 on the tenth end they did not look back. Bob Enright’s team had a steady game too always just in front. Maureen Robertson’s team were up against a lucky wicker, not happy with wicking off one wood he would wick off two or three and come in for shot, not just once but at least four times. I know I Know what goes around comes around BUT. Bob Furness and his team were up against it being out played by long jacks.

C Harder, T Gribble and K Barry 21 – 10.

S Moore, D Butt and B Enright 14 – 10.

N Howard, C Hammett and M Robertson 15 – 18.

E Browning, B Moore and B Furness  6 – 25.

Overall West End 56, Exonia 63.

On Sunday, we were at home to Burnham and hoped for better things, both from the weather and the result, we got better weather but ultimately the result was the same, West End won two rinks, lost two and overall.

John Barrie’s rink always seemed to be in control, whereas Ken Berry took until a score of four on the 14 end to wake up and take command of the game winning the last three ends and the game. J Clapp’s rink came close but were just pipped and Tony Sykes’s rink seemed to struggle against a very good Burnham rink. Overall West End 70, Burnham 76.

M Robertson, B Moore, C Slade and J Barrie 20 – 12.

M Slade, B Kerslake, D Butt and K berry 21 – 19.

C Harder, E Payne, R Gregory and J Clapp 15 – 16.

N Howard, E Browning, B Enright and T Sykes 14 – 29.

West End Bowling Club summer tour 2021.

We’re off, members and friends gathered at the Tiverton bus station early on Friday morning for our tour to Torquay. Loaded on to the coach we traveled down to Newton Abbot for the first of our games. On the way down Dickie advised us of a few changes to teams, which were forced on us by Dennis and Joyce Blackwell having to self isolate and missing the tour and then Angie Hill falling ill and unable to join us. We were lucky to have Brian Willis join us at short notice.

Arriving at Newton Abbot we unloaded our bowl’s equipment whilst the coach and some non players traveled on to the hotel.

Members of Newton Abbot welcomed us with hot drinks and friendly chatter.

Captain of the day Ken Powney passed out the team cards with words of encouragement, that worked for three rinks who managed a draw, but not so for the other four who were not so fortunate. Brian Willis’s rink were 5 – 11 down at 10 ends but pulled back to lead 14 – 11 by the 16th end, only to drop 6 on the next end and finished up losing by two. Bob Pulsford’s rink left it a bit too late scoring five in the last two ends, whilst only managing a draw, whereas Tony Sykes’s rink dropped three on the last end which resulted in a draw. Dick Clarke’s rink were nip and tuck throughout ending in a draw. Chris Slade and Gillian Callaghan’s games were both close but, in the end, both rinks lost out. Nobby Clarke asked me not to mention his rink, so all I’ll say is now and again these things happen.

C Harder, B Husbands, R Harder and D Clarke 15 – 15.

M Stevens, G Hake and T Sykes 16 – 16.

C Andrews, D Gardner, B Moore and B Pulsford 16 – 16.

C Clarke, C Powney, C Hammett and B Willis 15 – 17.

T Gribble, D Stevens, M Robertson and C Slade 13 – 17.

B Willis, S Andrews, K Powney and G Callaghan 14 – 20.

S Moore, M Slade, B Kerslake and N Clarke. 3 – 26.

Overall West End 92, Newton Abbot 127.

After the game we coached to the TLH Toorak hotel in Torquay, booked in, changed, and had our first wonderful evening meal.

Saturday morning, we were free to do as we pleased, gathering at 1pm  to be coached the short distance to Kings Bowling Club. Due to illnesses, we were now four rinks and three triples, Captain of the day Chris Hammett liaised with Kings Captain Terry Gale, rinks were allocated and play was soon underway. One triple skipped by Bob Pulsford started slowly but by ten ends had pulled level and never looked back, winning by eight shots, close behind was the triple of Brian Willis who despite dropping seven shots over the last four ends managed to win by seven shots. Gillian Callaghan went into the last end tied, Gill was at least two down but had the last bowl and managed to draw the shot for a win by one shot. Dickie’s rink was a close game but, in the end, lost by three shots. Brian Moore was allocated rink seven, which was full of holes dug by the crows looking for leather jackets. Sadly Brian, Chris Slade and Nobby Clarke all lost, as did the Club overall. I won’t say anything Nobby.

West End 107, Kings 131.

C Powney, C Hammett and B Pulsford 21 – 13.

M Slade, M Robertson and B Willis 24 – 17.

M Stevens, G Hake, R Harder and G Callaghan 15 – 14.

S Moore, D Gardner, T Sykes and D Clarke 11 – 14.

C Harder, B Husbands and B Moore 20 – 29.

S Andrews, D Stevens, B Kerslake and C Slade 9 – 19.

T Gribble, C Andrews, K Powney and N Clarke 7 – 25.

With the game over we had an hours socialising with Kings members before we returned to the hotel for dinner.

On Sunday morning a dozen of us went down to the Astec sports area in the hotel for our annual 10 pin bowling competition, once again well organised by Barry Kerslake. It’s no surprise then to learn that Barry was the highest scorer with 115 pins. He was given a close fight by Chris Slade with 110 and Richard Harder 107, after a somewhat slow start Caroline Harder made it to 45 pins. With everyone else in between. Well played everyone a most enjoyable hour or so.

Thanks Barry.

After lunch we moved on to Babbacombe Bowls Club for our afternoon game, following light showers in the morning we hoped for a dry afternoon, but it was not to be, as it drizzled on and off for most of the game.

We managed to win on two rinks but lost on the other five and overall. Nobby Clarke got his first win with Brian Willis taking his second. Chris Slade and Bob Pulsford lost out on the last couple of ends, losing by 1 and 2 respectively. The three triples had the odd bad end and were unable to keep up with their opponents all losing. Overall, it was West End 102 to Babbacombe 119. Captain of the day, Bob Pulsford, after announcing the result told one of his many jokes to roars of laughter, to be honest the score was irrelevant, we all had a very enjoyable afternoon bowling on a good green with very good company.

D Stevens, B Husbands, C Hammett and Nobby Clarke 19 – 11.

T Gribble, D Gardner, R Harder and B Willis 13 – 10.

S Moore, S Andrews, K Powney and C Slade 16 – 17.

C Harder, C Powney, T Sykes and B Pulsford 12 – 14.

C Andrews, B Kerslake and B Moore 13 – 20.

M Slade, G Hake and G Callaghan 14 – 22.

M Stevens, M Robertson and D Clarke 15 – 25.

We woke on Monday to a somewhat overcast day for the last day of this tour. Having to exit our rooms by 11am we wandered around like lost sheep until the coach picked us up for the 500-yard trip to Torquay Bowls Club for our afternoon game.

It must have been Tony Sykes captaincy that changed our fortunes as we managed to win overall for the first time this trip.

At the tea break Brian Willis’s triple were well up and that’s where they stayed, Maureen Robertson’s triple faired the same and although Dicky Clarke was well up at tea his triple second half was not the same as the first half. Bob Pulsford’s rink was pretty steady throughout the game, however the other three rinks all lost and so with four wins we also managed the overall victory.  West End 126, Torquay 104.

S Moore, T Sykes and B Willis 29 – 8.

S Andrews, G Hake and M Robertson 26 – 12.

M Slade, C Hammett and D Clarke 19 – 13.

D Stevens, B Husbands, K Powney and B Pulsford 16 – 11.

M Stevens, C Powney, B Moore and C Slade 14 – 17.

T Gribble, D Gardner, R Harder and N Clarke 12 – 22.

C Harder, C Andrews, B Kerslake and G Callaghan 10 – 21.

After the game we retired to the club house for drinks and chatter.

Richard Harder and Stewart Andrews were presented with wrong bias certificates by Torquay’s captain, a memento I’m sure they will treasure for years to come.

Before we left for the coach and return journey back to Tiverton, Ken Powney presented Dicky Clarke with a bottle of his favourite and donations from members in thanks for his organizing the tour.

As a little aside it was interesting to note that individual scores for the four games ranged from -51 to + 29. I won’t tell you who the - player was but Brian Willis was the + 29, closely followed by Chris Hammett +20 and Tony Sykes +16.

The overall score for our four games was 427 for, 481 against, but the score does not matter, I’m sure everyone agreed this was a most enjoyable break, good bowls and good company throughout.

I can’t wait till the next one.

Report for weekending 15th August 2021.

As mentioned last week our first two friendlies of this week were cancelled.

Regarding the Exeter over 60’s league, last Wednesday the C team played at Bradninch against their A team. Losing on both rinks, overall score West End C 19 - Bradninch A 47.

D Knowles, B Gregory and K Powney     7 - 34.

M Slade, E Payne and G Reardon        12 - 13.

This week’s games have all been rearranged so the A team will play on Tuesday and the C team on Thursday. The B team will not play their game until September.

And so, on Tuesday, in the Exeter over 60’s league, the A team traveled down to Okehampton to face the Okehampton B team, winning on both rinks they secured all 8 points. Well done lads keep it up.

T Sykes, K Berry and D Clarke              17 - 14.

B Kerslake, B Pulsford and N Clarke     22 - 20.

Overall West End A 39, Okehampton B 34.

On Wednesday evening T Sykes beat B Kerslake in the internal men’s over 60’s Competition, and in the mixed pairs, M Robertson and A Mason beat M Slade and M Sampson.

Moving on to Thursday afternoon the West End C team played Ottery D team in the Exeter over 60’s league at home.

Losing on one rink but winning on the other and overall, thereby collecting 6 points.

E Payne, B Gregory and K Powney 11 – 16.

M Slade, C Hammett and B Furness 30 - 7.

Overall West End C 41, Ottery D 23.

There were no games on Thursday and with the Summer Tour to Torquay starting on Friday morning there were no more games this week.

 

Report for weekending 8th August 2021.

The week started with two internal club competitions, both mixed pairs, in the first Sonia & Brian Moore beat Edna Browning & Eddie Payne followed by John Clapp & Angie Hill who beat Richard & Caroline Harder.

Come the evening along came Culm Vale to play the last match in the County Trophy. As always against Culm Vale it was hard, made even harder on Monday night by the fact that West End were short a few players at the start of the evening. After a few phone calls and team rearrangements we were off.

One rink got slaughtered, one about the average expected result, one close and one win, well done Tony and team. After the game the bar was open and the food (thanks Edna & team) was hot. Overall West End 59, Culm Vale 92.

E Payne, R Gregory, B French & T Sykes            18-17.

R White, B Kerslake, J Barrie & N Clarke             16-18.

B Moore, S Grace, K Powney & D Clarke            13-19.

B Enright, G Reardon, C Hammett & B Pulsford   8-38.

On Tuesday morning we were pleased to welcome 100-year-old Gordon Short to the club. Gordon is traveling around Devon in his hundredth year playing 5 ends at 20 different bowls clubs, 5x20=100. He is raising money for Devon Air Ambulance, a charity to which West End Bowling Club were pleased to donate to. President Norman Howard, a long-time friend of Gordons, represented West End, with Gordon playing from a wheel chair having recently broken his hip. (See photos in Gallery)

In the afternoon, Andy Mason played two internal competitions, winning them both. The first, the men’s handicap against Ken Powney and the second, the men’s over 60’s against Mike Slade.

On Wednesday morning, Gill Callaghan and Tony Sykes beat Cathy Andrews and Barry Kerslake in the Club mixed pairs competition.

In the afternoon, the A team were at home to Seaton A securing 6 points, one game was a runaway, the other was a giveaway losing on the last end. Overall West end A 44, Seaton A 32.

R White, T Sykes & R K Clarke          27-14.

B Kerslake, B Pulsford & R L Clarke 17-18.

The B team were also at home their opponents were Ottery B.

Sadly, loosing on both rinks (one rink, like the A team on the last end) Overall West End 26 Ottery B 32.

T Gribble, B Enright & C Hammett 13-14.

K Kelly, R Harder & J Barrie          13-18.

C Team, see end of report.

On Friday morning an internal competition, the 2 wood singles, was played between B Kerslake and N Clarke, with Barry coming out the winner.

Friday afternoon we trekked up to The Borough for a friendly. Leading on three rinks for the whole game but losing on one and overall. West End 61, The Borough 64.

S Grace, B Moore and C Slade           16 – 12.

C Harder, M Slade and K Powney       16 – 14.

S Moore, M Stevens and B Kerslake  19 – 8.

C Powney, D Butt and R Harder         10 – 30.

And then came the rain, Saturdays friendly against Teignmouth Den and Sundays against Barnstable (Ashleigh Rd) were both called off, heavy rain in the mornings meant the green was waterlogged.

Currently, I do not have the C team cards I’ll give you those results next week. As to next week, the friendlies on Monday at Crediton and Tuesday against Topsham have both been cancelled. The Exeter Over 60’s league games due to be played on Wednesday have all been rearranged to allow members to attend the funeral of Harold Cole.

 

 

 

 

Report for weekending 1st August 2021.

No games on Monday.

On Tuesday Bowls Devon Ladies used our green to play Section two Ladies. There were six Ladies from West End representing Section two. This thrilling match was rain interrupted, but in the end Section two came out winners.

In the evening two internal games were played.

J Clapp beat A Mason after an extra end in the two wood singles.

Also, in the two-wood singles B Pulsford beat C Hammett.

In the Exeter over 60’s league on Wednesday, the A team did not have a match and the C teams match was cancelled. Both teams having a free week they played each other.

The B team travelled to Topsham, where they played Topsham Red. Winning on one rink, losing on one and overall. West End 32, Topsham Red 35.

B Enright, R Harder & T Sykes 18-13.

B Berry, T Gribble & B Moore 14-22.

On Thursday morning Brian Moore played Eddie Payne in the internal Men’s Handicap competition, in a game that flipped one way then the other, Brian came out the winner.

Moving on to Thursday evening West End entertained South Molton in the County Trophy. On an overcast evening, with a few rain showers heavy enough to don waterproof jackets we put in a good performance, in fact had we stopped at 20 ends we would have won on two rinks. As it was, we lost on all four. Andy Masons team were leading well until the 17 end when all 4 wheels fell of, South Molton scored a hot shot and never looked back. West End 68, South Molton 93.

B Moore, B Enright, K Powney & D Blackwell 21-22.

E Payne, G Reardon, C Hammett & B Pulsford 15-25.

N Howard, B Gregory, J Clapp & A Mason 14-25.

 R White, B Kerslake, K Barry & N Clarke 18-21.

On a wet Friday afternoon, we welcomed our friends from Uffculme to the Club, five triples set off to try and beat the rain, but the rain won. Still, both West End and Uffculme players are made of sturdy stuff and we all played through the showers, some of which were quite heavy. Well done everyone. As to the game, the Uffculme captain declared the result a draw and it almost was. West End won two rinks, lost two rinks and draw one. West End 76, Uffculme 79.

S Andrews, G Reardon & C Slade 18-12.

S Grace, M Slade & T Sykes 18-16.

T Gribble, D Butt & R Harder 10-18.

E Browning, M Newcombe & B Kerslake 12-15.

C Andrews, R Gregory & J Barrie 18-18.

There were no planed friendlies for Saturday or Sunday, just as well as they would have been rained off, just like the planned club roll-up was.

 

Report for weekending 25th July 2021.

We Started the week with a cancelled friendly, on Monday we were down to play United Services, sadly this was cancelled.

This week several internal competitions have been played.

On Monday: -

Dicky Clarke beat John Clapp in the men’s handicap.

Ken Powney beat Mike Slade in the men’s unbadged.

On Tuesday: -

Andy Mason beat Chris Hammett in the men’s championship.

Bob Pulsford beat John Clapp in the men’s championship.

Chris Slade beat Barry Kerslake in the open singles.

Dicky Clarke beat Tony Sykes in the 2 wood singles.

In the Exeter over 60 league on Wednesday the A team were away at Honiton. After leading for the first ten ends suddenly the wheels came off for one rink and at the end they lost by 2 shots. The second team had a good size win and so West End came away with 6 of the 8 points on offer.

B Kerslake, B Pulsford & N Clarke 19-21.

T Sykes, A Mason & D Clarke 20-10.

The B team were at home to Topsham White. With a narrow loss on one rink and a good win on the other again West End came away with 6 of the 8 points on offer.

B Enright, C Hammett & R Harder 15-17

B Barry, T Gribble & B Moore 28-10.

The C team did not play this week.

On Thursday morning, D Clarke & T Sykes Beat N Clarke & B Kerslake in the Club men’s pairs.

In the evening it’s County trophy time, this week’s result pretty much mirrored last week’s, the only exception was that last week at Culm Vale we at least managed a drawn rink. This week we travelled to South Molton, where despite some heroic playing, we lost on all four rinks. Overall, 59-100.

C Hammett, E Payne, J Barrie & B Pulsford 18-22.

B Moore, G Reardon, K Powney & D Clarke 13-25.

B Kerslake, B Enright, R Harder & T sykes 15-34.

K Berry, R Gregory, J Clapp & A Mason 13-19.

Friday morning more internal competitions were played.

T Sykes beat D Clarke in the men’s Championship.

B Moore & K Powney beat C Hammett & J Clapp in the men’s pairs.

In the evening away at Culm Vale, in the semi-final of the County Greater pairs competition D Blackwell and B Pulsford were defeated by a pair from Culm Vale. Whilst back at West Exe Park it was Club night, 14 or so members enjoyed an evening’s bowling, welcoming a visitor.

Our friendly at Rock Park on Saturday was cancelled.

Sunday our green was used by the County for the Minors (un-badged) finals, several members came along to watch and had an enjoyable time.

 

Report for week-ending 18th July 2021.

We started the week slowly with no friendlies.

A few members played County games. Maureen Robertson and Gill Callaghan played Ella Crouch and Natalie Heath from Torquay in the Devon County Ladies Pairs quarter final, after being 8 down, they went on to win the match. Well done and good luck in the semi-final, which will be played at Exonia on 19th July at 6.15pm.

On Tuesday morning Dicky Clarke played Richard Evans from South Molton in the over 60’s men’s singles, the scores were ticking along nicely when on the 18th end Dicky who was 3 down overall, was holding 3. Richard played a weighted shot took the jack and scored 3, giving him a 6-shot lead, and that is how it finished 15 – 22. There’s always next year Dicky.

Wednesday saw West End A team at home to Exonia A. Winning on both rinks West End took all 8 points.

B Kerslake, B Pulsford & R L Clarke    13-12.

R White, A Mason & R K Clarke           17-9.

The B team should have been away at Oakhampton, but the game was called off, so they had a friendly inter-team roll up.

The C team were also at home against Phear Park B. Unfortunately, it was not their day losing on both rinks, Kens rink was close going into the last end level, but dropped a shot to lost the game.

G Lee, B Gregory & K Powney             14 – 15.

D Knowles, B Furness & G Reardon     15 – 20.

Although I had previously mentioned that the County trophy had been cancelled this year, three clubs are still playing it, West End Bowling club being one of them. And so, on Thursday evening 16 men traveled to Culm Vale for our first County trophy game. We came close to winning on one rink but dropped 6 on the last end to tie and although we all played well, we were out played as the scores reflect.

D Blackwell, K Powney, B French & N Clarke     22 - 22.

C Hammett, B Gregory, J Clapp & A Mason         8 – 35.

B Kerslake, B Enright, T Sykes & D Clarke          11 – 28.

B Moore, E Payne, J Barrie & B Pulsford              11 – 17.

Friday evening is club night and several members turned up for a roll-up, which we all enjoyed.

We had two friendlies at the weekend, on Saturday, we traveled to Feniton. Although it was an enjoyable afternoon, we only managed to win on one rink, losing the other four and overall.

S Moore, E Payne & B French.                      19-18

M Slade, D Butt & D Blackwell.                      18-20

S Grace, B Gregory & C Slade.                      12-16

B Willis, C Harder & B Moore.                        17-21

N Howard, E Browning & K Berry.                   6-24.

Overall West End 72, Feniton 99.

Sunday we were at home to Stracross, on what was probably the hottest day of the year so far. The bowling was quite hot too (by the Starcross players). We managed to win on two rinks (lucky Doreen scored 5 shots on the last end) but lost on the other three and overall.

D Knowles, C Hammett & G Callaghan.  19 – 8.

T Gribble, B Furness & D Butt.                16 – 13.

C Powney, G Reardon & B Kerslake.        8 – 23.

B Willis, R Gregory & K Powney.             14 – 20.

E Payne, C Harder & B Enright.               12 – 24.

West End 69, Starcross 88.

No return game this year as it was to have been earlier in the season, but was cancelled due to the Covid situation.

 

 

Week ending Sunday 11th July 2021.

In the final of the County section 2 mixed triples, A Hill, T Sykes and J Clapp were beaten by a triple from Uffculme, there’s always next year, well done for getting to the final.

On Tuesday evening we played Culm vale in the Top Club. Despite some awfully close games, eventually West End lost Five nil. Dennis Blackwell in the 2-wood singles played 31 ends, losing the last three ends to give victory to Culm Vale. In the 4-wood singles Bob Pulsford led for most of the game only to suffer the same fate losing three ends on the trot and with it the game. In the pairs, T Sykes & N Clarke, I’ll just say they lost by a few shots. The triple of J Clapp, A Mason and D Clarke faired little better, after leading for 7 ends the Culm Vale players used firing shots to win the next few ends and being three down overall their game finished there. The rink of B Moore, B Gregory, J Barrie and B French were holding their own when the match was won and so like the triples, they did not complete their game.

Wednesday saw the return of the Exeter over 60’s league.

The A team travelled to Exmouth to play Maderia A. Where they won on one rink but lost on the other and overall.

T Sykes, B Pulsford & N Clarke 15-11.

D Blackwell, A Mason & D Clarke 16-25.

The B team were at home to Tiverton B. With the same result.

T Gribble, B Moore & B Barry 3-30.

K Kelly, J Barrie & R Harder 16-12.

The C team were also at home to Bradninch B. Losing on both rinks.

M Slade, E Payne & G Reardon 5-21.

G Lee, B Gregory & B Furness 13-18.

Along came Friday and West End welcomed Taunton Vivary for a friendly game. A chilly afternoon was warmed up by the friendly banter from our always welcome visitors. West End won on one rink, drew on one and lost on two, losing overall 51-66. Nevertheless, a good afternoon was had by all.

S Grace, K White, C Hammett & J Barrie 13-19. S Andrews, C Powney, B Moore & S Herring 16-16. S Moore, M Slade, B Enright & B Furness 5-19. C Andrews, T Gribble, B Gregory & K Powney 17-12.

In the evening, the first of the Club Internal competitions got underway, the mixed pairs. A Mason & M Robertson were victorious over D Clarke & C Slade 19-16.

Our friendly game against Tiverton Park on Sunday was called off due to the heavy rain.

 

Report for week-ending 4th July 2021

We started the week with a trip to Ilfracombe, where despite three of our five triples losing, overall, we came away the winners. Good weather, good company and good bowling made the journey well worthwhile.

D Stevens, B Enright & B Pulsford 21-9. M Slade, T Gribble & K Powney 25–10. D Gardner, B Gregory & B French 10-12.                     E Payne, D Butt & B Kerslake 14-17. M Stevens, E Browning & J Barrie 13-21. West End 83, Ilfracombe 69.

On Wednesday, our green became a natural green for the County Ladies Interclub match between Bideford Victoria Park and Torquay B, with both teams wining one rink it was Bideford who came away overall winners by 1 shot in a closely fought match.

West End also had an internal game on Wednesday, as the game we thought we had on Friday at Barnstable was not to be.               16 members enjoyed an extremely competitive afternoon. Thanks to Eddie and Barry for providing the refreshments.                                  G Lee, D Stevens, T Gribble & A Hill 19,   played   M Stevens, S Grace, B Moore & B Barrie 9.                                                                  D Knowles, S Moore,  B Enright & J Clapp 12,  played    G Reardon,   R Harder, C Hammett & B French 19.    

On Thursday evening West End faced Culm Vale in the Foxlands, sadly both home and away teams lost.                                          Home R White, B Pulsford, A Mason & J Tinham 15-22.          Away D Blackwell, T Sykes, N Clarke & D Clarke 19-30.   

Friday evening is Club roll-up night, enough members turned up for two competitive triples games. We tried to concentrate on our own game but with members from Culm Vale playing two rinks away we had to be on our toes for wayward bowls, so many times a firing shot would send the bowls flying into our rink.  West End had lost to Culm Vale the night before, but that was not to be repeated on Friday evening. In the Greter pairs section 2 B quarter-final B Pulsford and J Tinham beat S Luxon & D Rice by 19 shots to 17. Leading comfortably for 15 ends, despite all the attacking bowls played, Bob and Jordan dropped a six on the 16th end. This gave the Culm Vale pair a glimmer of hope, and when they picked up two the next end the scores were level. 3 of the last 4 ends went Jordans way giving a two-shot victory. Well done both, now you once again must face a pair from Culm Vale in the semi-final.  

On Saturday, we had our annual trip to the seaside, traveling by coach to Teignmouth. Although somewhat overcast the rain held off. As always, we were made welcome by the Teignmouth members whose company we enjoyed throughout the afternoon. Winning on 3 of 4 rinks we also won overall.  C Harder, B Enright, J Clapp & D Blackwell 20-15. A Hill, B Gregory, C Hammett & B French 22-16.              B Kerslake, D Butt, J Barrie & A Mason 22-14. E Payne, E Browning, T Sykes & B Pulsford 9-20.  West End 73, Teignmouth 65.

Sunday was a free day.

 

    

 

Report for weekending 27-6-21.

Our trip to Madeira on Monday was cancelled due to the rain.

On Tuesday, the sun was back out for West End to welcome Wellington to our green for a friendly. Winning on two rinks, drawing on one but losing overall, nevertheless it was an enjoyable afternoon. West End 71, Wellington 89.

M Slade, G Hake and T Sykes 20-19. E Browning, B Moore and B Berry 12-22. B Willis, E Payne and R Harder 17-15. S Grace, D Butt and D Blackwell 10-21. C Harder, G Reardon and B Pulsford 12-12.

The County Trophy has been cancelled this season.

A few members turned up for the Friday night Club roll-up, all in all a noticeably quiet week for the Club.

On Saturday, the Ladies from Dorset and Cornwell used our green for their Walker Cup match and once again with visiting counties were impressed with our green and catering. Well done all West End members involved.

 

Weekly report for week ending 20th June 2021.

Following the thrashing we received at Burnham on Sunday on Monday we pulled our socks up and won on all 6 rinks against Byways. Well done everyone that is more like it.

D Knowles, B Gregory & B Blackwell 16-14, B Kerslake, B Enright & C Slade 27-11. S Moore, T Gribble & B French 20-9, B Furdess. M Robertson & R harder 24-13. M Slade, B Moore & B Pulsford 16-6. S Grace, E Payne & K Powney 16-14. West end 119, Byways 67.

In the evening A Hill, J Clapp & T Sykes played the semi-final of the County section 2, Mixed Triples and beat P Saunders & co from Borough, well done you are now through to the section final.

On Tuesday afternoon the last Tuesday internal mixed triples league games were played.

In the evening West End played Borough in the Foxlands, playing one rink at home and one away, winning by 3 shots both home and away. Home team R White, J Clapp, A Mason & J Tinham 18-15. Away team D Blackwell, T Sykes, N Clarke & D Clarke 17-14.

On Wednesday we welcomed Bideford Victoria Park to West Exe Park for the first leg of our annual cup match. Last year we lost both home and away, so it was something of a relief that we retained our form from Sunday with another overall win. West End 88, Victoria Park 78. T Gribble, D Butt & J Clapp 23-16. E Browning, B Gregory & K Powney 10-24. N Howard, C Hammett & B French 15-14. S Grace, B Kerslake & B Pulsford 21-13. E Payne, B Furdess & B Berry 19-11. Let us hope we can repeat this form for the return leg in August.

Thursday saw the conclusion of the Internal Mixed Triples league, which everyone agreed has been a great success.

Friday night is Club night and several members turned up for a roll-up.

Friday also saw a number of county games played in the Grater pairs it was two pairs from West End playing each other, only one could progress. That was Bob Pulsford and Jordan Tinham who beat John Clapp and Andy Mason 25-20. Well done Bob & Jordan and good luck in the next round.

In the over 55 rinks Dennis Blackwell, Tony Sykes, Nobby Clarke and Dicky Clarke beat R Evans & co. from South Molton 14-11 in the Section 2 area final. Their next game is in Newton Abbott on July 11th. Well played lads and good luck in the next round.

 

Week Ending !3th June 2021

The Internal Mixed Triples League is progressing well with both Tuesday and Thursday’s games being played this week without the interruption of rain.

On Wednesday the Ladies played South Molton in the Grace Mathews, it did not turn out to be West Ends day, we only won in the 4 wood singles, although there were close finishes in the remaining games all were lost.

A number of men’s County games were played, in the triples John Clapp, Andy Mason and Jorden Tinham not only managed to beat Dennis Blackwell, Nobby and Dicky Clarke to move to the section 2 final but also beat R Werner & co from South Molton to become the section 2 qualifiers.

On Thursday evening in the mixed triples E Browning, B Gregory and J Tinham narrowly missed out to a team from Culm Vale, after leading for most of the game, losing the 13,14 and 15 end was their undoing, going down by 2 shots in a great game to watch. Better luck next year.

On the same night the mixed rink of Carol Clarke, Tony Sykes, Nobby Clarke and Dicky Clarke beat a team from The Borough.

Sue Herring has won her way through to the last 16 of the ladies 2 wood singles, well done Sue, keep it up.

Friday Club night roll-ups are going well.

We thought we had a friendly on Saturday with South Molton, but sadly they are not ready to play friendlies yet, so no Saturday game.

Sunday was a trip out to Burnham. Five triples made to journey alone the motorway on a ridiculously hot afternoon. There is always a friendly welcome from the members at Burnham, but there was nothing friendly about the way they played, we only managed to win on one rink, well done John Barrie & team, losing on the others. Overall score was West End 59, Burnham 80.

That said, nice weather, good company, great afternoon.

 

Week Ending 6th June 2021.

We are slowly returning to “normal”, with roll-ups continuing on Monday and Wednesday afternoons and Club night roll-up on Friday evenings.

County games are now well underway with several members playing both home and away, some with success others coming in second, there is always next year.

The Internal Mixed triples league is running well, only two more weeks to run and then the “Exeter Over 60’s Triple’s league” starts for the men. Sadly, no Presidents Trophy for the ladies this year.

On Saturday we hosted our friends from Rock Park, what a great afternoon. The chance to see so many old friends and make a few new ones. As always this was a close match and with West End winning on 3 rinks and losing on 3. Resulting in an overall score of West End 96 and Rock Park 110.

On Sunday our green was used for the men’s County two wood singles, with West End members providing markers for the first rounds.

 

Oh what a terrible 2020/2021 we have had so far, with only a handful of members able to have a few roll-ups in September 2020.

But now that the Government restrictions have enabled us to return to the Club, not only have we managed to have some roll-ups but, weather permitting, we have managed a few rounds of the Club Internal Mixed Triples league.

During May several members had played their County games, some with victory, some not so fortunate.

So, it was a no brainer that when Tiverton Bowling Club asked if we would like to play a friendly, we said yes.

No sooner was the list on the board than the 15 names were added.

Along with the sun came Saturday 29th, and we made our way up the hill to The Peoples Park, the home of Tiverton Bowling Club. What a great afternoon, meeting up with so many old friends we had not seen for a long time.

And as for the bowls, it was friendly competitive as always when our two Clubs meet.

As to the chatter in the Club house, as we drank our teas at half time, it is funny the things you miss.

Back on the green, we managed to win on three rinks but lost on two, with the overall score 84 to West End and 91 to Tiverton Park. I think at the end of the day all agreed Bowls and friendship won the day, lets hope for more days like it throughout the coming season.