Fish and chips, fantastic setting, bowling with friends…and the weather was good!

Once again we all turned our eyes to the sky after last years washout! The forecast was even worse, possible thunderstorms were on the horizon. So we prepared for the worst with all sorts of quizzes and pastimes.

The tables were set up around 10.30 a.m. thanks to Frank who turned up early to help. However, we were also helped by Paul Jacklin and Lynn Devall who were watching the matches that morning. The job was done speedily and artistically thanks to Judith and Lynn.

The rinks were set out under the leaden skies with the aid of Alistair. We completed the set up just as the rain started and it rained heavily, however, about 7 mins later it stopped!

The flag was flown and fingers were crossed as the bowlers arrived, envelopes filled in and deposited in the box, places booked at the tables.

We started on time at 4.00 p.m. and the rules explained...

And they were also in the clubhouse, if required!

It is amazing how many versions they were changed into! However, play commenced and the players soon realised it was simpler than it sounded.

Celebrating an early success.

I have a good feeling about this competition.

Our chief organiser is relieved to see the afternoon is off to a great start.

Two skips demonstrate the principal signals - "double up" and "remove a bowl".

We're up three and we've doubled up.

 A wonderful backdrop to the match.

All that's needed is a simple draw through here.

One end up.

Next end down.

How do we apply the measuring rule?

Luckily we had a late change of teams which gave Red and Blue Teams a Bye in one of their matches. This proved to be very welcome in the heat.

"You saved our bacon on that end".

Whilst the teams still playing maintain their momentum.

The skip delivers a top wood.

Which deserves more than a handshake.

The preliminaries draw to a close with handshakes and checking of scorecards.

We moved to the final - which began on time at 6.45 p.m..

Representing the Blue teams were Cheryl Swift, Pauline Barton and John Drake whilst Cynthia Bates, John Jones and Douglas Mcwee represented the red teams.

Very good opening woods from the two leads.

Agreeing the outcome of the first end.

The last end and the blue team were 3-1 up. Douglas opted for a double, Blue had used their options already. Cheryl’s lead was perfect, a toucher which stopped on the jack!

It all came down to Douglas’s last wood - a hit could have easily given Red a draw or a win as they had back woods waiting. His fire missed by a whisker!

The skips shake hands.

 Prizes were, as always, presented to the runners up and then the winners.

Winners and runners up together. (The winners have got the bigger bottles!)

A quick dash to the bar…

And players and spectators take their seats.

...just time before the fish and chips arrived bang on time.

The raffle was drawn…

And prizes won.

…and thanks given to the multitude of helpers. My huge thanks for all participants at the Fish and Chip Event for helping to raise £300 for the club Charity, ‘Macmillan Cancer Research’.

Derek Chappel.

Finally, Eric Smith proposed a vote of thanks to Derek Chappel and Judith Chappel, the principal organisers of this popular event. The proposal was enthusiastically supported by all present.

Event Report: Derek Chappel.

Photographs: Jeff Jaycock