Our roving reporter returns

After a seemingly long, dreary and wet winter, during which the only members who were happy were the greenkeeper and the finance officer. The first because the green did not need watering so much and the second because the water charge would be reduced.

Finally the bowling season commenced on 19th April with The Opening Drive and the club president, Sharon Kenny, started the season off in the traditional manner by delivering the first bowl. Although it was a slightly chilly afternoon, the weather did not stop the members from having an afternoon full of fun, laughter and competition. Occasionally, a wrong bias was sent across the green much to the embarrassment of the player, in fact one experienced member made a proper Charlie of themselves! The afternoon was finished off with a High Tea which was superbly organised by Anita and the catering team.

Thereafter the season was soon in full swing , with Ottery winning five out of the first six matches against Severalls Bowling Club from Crewkerne, Tiverton Canal, Madeira, Chudleigh, Phear Park and Grampound from Truro. This being a typical English spring, some of the matches were played in such warm conditions that shorts and sun hats were needed, and the post match drinks were enjoyed outside.

Touring teams always enjoy coming to Ottery for three reasons, namely the quality of the green and the pavilion, the warmth of the welcome experienced and the fact that we have an exceptionally large car park, big enough for a touring coach! During the first week of May, three touring teams visited us, one of which was Westlecot Bowling Club, who have been yearly visitors since the club was formed. In fact many of their older members always comment how the facilities have improved over the years.

The green is recognised as one of the best in East Devon, if not in the county. Dorset Patrons paid us a visit in mid May, followed soon after by Horsell Bowling Club from Surrey. It would appear that the long journey had affected this team as Ottery ran out huge winners. Sidmouth were the next local club to visit us and they could not claim travel fatigue as Ottery won comfortably.

The Over 60’s matches have now started for both the men’s and women’s sections, and it is perhaps too early to judge whether the teams will top their leagues. However in another competition, OSMBC did particularly well by coming through the first round of the Top Club competition.

The club coaches have been busy during the first six weeks of the season with new potential players coming down on club nights, as well as the Bowls Open Day. Hopefully many will decide to stay with the club as their skill level increases.. The Saturday morning young peoples training session has already seen one player come through to play in a friendly fixture.
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To summarise “Not a bad start to the season”

Captain Viv Gilleard is pictured raising the Ottery flag prior to one of the matches