Burpham Bowling Club’s Super Weekend

Published on: 24 Jul, 2019
Updated on: 24 Jul, 2019

Burpham Bowling Club report by Ian Mackrell

At last, with reasonably warm, and dry, weather we had a most successful weekend.

Travelling to Camberley with 21 players for the West Surrey League and the Sapphire Leagues, Division 1, on Saturday, July 20, the host club suffered a serious dent to their reputation. Burpham won the Sapphire by 5-0 points, while the men secured a 4-1 point victory in the West Surrey League.

Burpham captain, Alan Mogg, welcomed by Camberley’s captain.

Our hosts were most gracious in defeat – and served a splendid meal after the match.

Players enjoying Camberley’s hospitality.

On Sunday, July 21 we held our annual President v Captain charity event. This year it was quite different to previous years. The two chosen charities, St George’s Hospital, Tooting and St Luke’s Cancer Centre in Guildford, ensured three of our senior bowlers to achieved remarkable recoveries from the most serious of medical challenges.

They were so thankful for the wonderful medical treatment received through the NHS.

The day was completely oversubscribed. It is a tribute to the support Burpham members give when such worthwhile events are organised.

Twelve teams of four players each, the absolute maximum our green can accommodate, played four separate matches, two before lunch, two after, in front of a couple dozen spectators.

Before that, nearly 60 people participated for the “spider” prize – a bottle of whisky.

President Margaret Baigent and captain Alan Mogg welcome players and spectators and explain the spider’s prize – a bottle of whisky.

Some 60 players and spectators were provided by those three thankful members with copious amounts of delicious food throughout the day – a marvelous spread for lunch, with plenty for “seconds” which was liberally made use of, tea and coffee throughout the day, and cake and refreshments late afternoon.

Participants, in lieu of the “free food and refreshments” were encouraged to “empty their pockets” and fill donation buckets full of donations.

What a success that was – raising over £2000!

The match got tense when the captain’s team needed a hastily organised team huddle – all to no avail of course!

Captain’s team huddle.

The President’s team ran out most convincing winners and also secured the winning rink too.

Ideal weather enabled everyone to stay outside for the food and refreshments throughout the day.

Willing helpers arrived early, erected three marquees, and set out chairs for 70 people. And in the end that was about the number that witnessed the final match and participated in the prize raffle, with more than 70 prizes generously donated by members.

It was a pleasure to welcome our new local councillor George Potter, who kindly gave up valuable time to both watch some matches and join us for lunch. His enthusiastic support for our proposed building conversion project is most welcome.

Just a small section of the attendees enjoying refreshments.

Earlier in the week, on Tuesday, July 16, Vince Hopkinson’s team had a stunning victory in the Guildford, Woking & District League, winning by 61 shots to Bramley’s 16.

Well done Vince – keep it up as we’re away next week to top club Woodbridge Hill.