At this time of the season, many of the internal competitions at Ottery St Mary Bowls Club are drawing to a close, with the finals being played next month, writes Clive Russell.

As a result, many local clubs organise invitation events, and such was the case with Lyme Regis Bowling Club who arranged a Ladies round robin match. Teams from six other local clubs accepted the invitation.

Ottery St Mary Bowling club sent a team comprising Emma Bradshaw-Smith, Margaret Trayhurn and Carol Keating, under the captaincy of club chair person, Sharon Kenny. The charity chosen by the Lyme Regis captain was “Butterflies”, who support children with disabilities, enabling special equipment to be purchased for them. After an afternoon of excellent bowling, Ottery were pronounced the winners, and a rose bowl and shield were duly presented to the ladies.

The second competition that took place on Saturday was the annual, prestigious, Redfern Trophy. Invitations were sent to Chardstock, Honiton, Budleigh and Sidmouth.

As the name indicates, this competition is sponsored by Redferns Estate Agents, and the club really appreciates this continued sponsorship which now stretches back over several years.

The weather forecast was for occasional showers, but these held off, allowing a superb afternoon of friendly yet competitive bowling. It is usual for bowling club teas to consist of a biscuit and a cup of tea, but on this occasion the catering team surpassed themselves by providing sandwiches and cake, as well as the mandatory cup of tea.

At the end of a most enjoyable afternoon, the results were compared and it was found that Ottery had not only won the competition, but they had come second and third as well. Mr Lee Maddocks from Redferns duly presented the competition vase to the winning team of Shirley Fewtrell, Tony Bushell, Maurice Flower and CR, who prefers the anonymity!

As the season draws to a close, we wish all members who have successfully negotiated their way through various competitions, every success in the future. It is hoped that the trophy cabinet will have to be enlarged!