The rain came down in torrents was an old song sung by many children in Sunday School, and it certainly felt like that at the official start of the bowling season.

The opening match had to be cancelled due to a water-logged green.

Eventually the rain subsided to allow the season to commence a week late on Sunday, April 21.

It was so good after the winter break to be back on the green, renewing old friendships, allowing laughter to be heard, enjoying the good hearted banter, and finding that muscles that had not been exercised for six months still existed.

The catering team excelled themselves by providing tea, and George Hutchinson, one of our members, kindly donated prizes to the winning team.

The rain had stopped but there was still a cold breeze, necessitating most members to play in their fleeces.

The selection of friendly matches started in earnest on Monday, April 22 when the visitors to Strawberry Lane were Severalls Jubilee Bowling Club, who came from Crewkerne.

The long winter break did not greatly affect the Ottery players and despite the rain Ottery ran out winners by 78 shots to 50, with one rink drawn - obviously the advantage of playing on home turf.

The top Ottery team was skippered by Tony Panzeri, and comprised Dot Luff, Carol Keating and Jill Pond.

Sidmouth Herald: Successful Ottery bowlers

Ottery’s good start to the season continued, when Madeira were beaten away, followed by wins against Tiverton Boro and Phear Park.

It is interesting to note that one of our newer members, Steve Bishop, featured in two of these matches and was in the top team on both occasions.

Not to be outdone, former chair person Sharon Kenny did precisely the same.

Westlecott Bowling Club were the next visitors to Srawberry Lane.

They are a touring team who have visited the club almost annually since the club started in 1990.

It is always a pleasure to invite them to our ground and a suitably warm welcome was given to them.

Thereafter a third team seemed to be playing havoc with the fixtures, as the rain created a soaking wet green - rain stopped play.

Finally Budleigh made the short trip to our ground and returned home victorious, winning by 80 shots to 66.

Now that the season is fully underway, the club has an extensive fixture list, and welcomes any established players who may have moved into the area to come along to the green on a Friday night to the club night to introduce yourself, and enjoy a roll up.

In addition, the club will be holding an Open Day on May 26, between 10.00 am and 4.00pm, when anyone who may be interested in taking up a new sport, will be welcome for a taster session.

Qualified coaches will be on hand to guide you, and bowls will be provided for your use.

Please bring a pair of flat shoes with you - you never know, you may well enjoy it.