Well done ladies for representing us so well in the Ann Wilkinson...

This report (italics) was kindly provided by Margaret Bailey, Captain of the HBC "Ann Wilkinson" squad.

"On Monday 1st September, the final of the Ann Wilkinson County competition was played at the York Railway Bowls & Social Club in York between Harrogate Bowling Club and teams from Driffield Rec & North Duffield Bowling Club.

The 18 ends were played under very difficult weather conditions with heavy showers!!

The sun is shining but the sky is threatening rain.

The match begins.

The rain showers start.

A dry spell.

Determination.

The match is concluded. Mutual respect.

Unfortunately, one Harrogate Team was out played by a very experienced and skilful team but the other team played extremely well and managed to match their opponents right up until the last two ends. So sadly, Harrogate lost the final but did bring home the rather big Runners Up shield. The first time we have won it.

The Harrogate ladies with the runners up Shield.

Congratulations to the winners of the Ann Wilkinson trophy

- the Driffield Rec & North Duffield ladies.

It was tremendous to have so many supporters from HBC there to encourage us and I would like to thank each and every one of them for attending.

Our route to the final was quite exceptional with our semi-final match against Thirsk seeing our very best performance. This really does auger well for next season when the experiences gained plus the very promising new players should stand us in good stead in all competitions entered.

So, thank you to all ten players who played in the competition. You all deserve a medal."

Margaret Bailey.

Photographs: Jeff Jaycock