Top performances at Sidmouth Bowls finals competition

The matches, held on a sunny day, were packed with suspense and competition.

The women's championship was a highly contested affair between Jill Bishop and Jane Painter, with both demonstrating exceptional skills.

Their competitiveness was evidenced throughout the match, as neither managed to secure a significant lead.

The game went beyond the usual 20 or 21 ends, with both players tied at 13 all after 20 ends.

By the 28th end, the score was 19.

However, in a dramatic turn of events, Jill Bishop scored two shots in the 30th end, securing a hard-fought victory with a final score of 21 - 19.

The Men's Championship saw Barry Curwen and Alun Brown face off.

At first, Barry trailed Alun but caught up to make the score closer at 19 -17.

After a compelling struggle, Alun managed to score in the succeeding two ends, resulting in his triumphant win of 21 - 17.

The Open Championship featured Jane Painter once again, this time paired against Andrew Lowe.

Jane led for the first 12 ends, but Andrew soon closed the gap.

After a tense 22 ends, the scores stood equally at 19 all.

However, Jane wasn't ready to suffer defeat.

She strategically placed two bowls close to the jack, winning her the game 21 - 19.

Northcott director, Simon Wakely presenting Men's Champion, Alun Brown with his trophy (Image: Carol Smith)

In the Men's Handicap, Ken Wheeler and David Timms faced each other in a tight game.

Despite having to concede a 10-shot start to David, Ken managed to catch up and even led by the 14th end.

However, David's three near-perfect bowls sealed his victory.

Alongside these competitions, other winners were announced.

In the women's categories, Sue Turner, Chris Radburn, Sue Clint, Karen Hollingdale, and Jill Bishop won various titles.

The men's categories saw Alun Brown, Paul Stanton, Les Crump, Vincent Ferrante, David Fishlock, Barry Curwen, and Mike Borst claim their wins.

Several mixed titles were awarded, recognising teams like Sue Turner and Brian Smith, Julie Wevill and John Mason, Steve Boyle, Keith Pollitt, Sue Turner, Carole Williams, Patrick Collins, Debbie Leeds, and David Timms.

The three-day event was smoothly coordinated, thanks to the collective efforts of Northcotts, David and Brenda, the competitions secretary, Gordon Brown the Umpire, the markers, stewards, cake makers, and bar staff.

The heartening performances by the finalists not only amused the spectators but also ignited an aura of high-spirited competition that peppered the event with undeniable excitement.