Latest From The Bowling Greens

Published on: 15 Jul, 2019
Updated on: 15 Jul, 2019

Burpham Bowling Club report by Ian Mackrell

At 9am sharp on Wednesday, July 10, our coach departed Burpham, with some 60 members for a 12 triples match against Southbourne, near Bournemouth.

The weather was just right, the organisation from Linda and Barry Macbeth, as ever, sublime, and the day turned out to be a highlight of the Burpham calendar.

After two hours drive we reached Bournemouth, where a break allowed legs to be stretched along the promenade – or a coffee and cake for the less active. What a wonderful sight that part of the coast is, especially in glorious weather.

Back on the coach we soon reached Southbourne, who pulled out all stops to provide us with a day to remember.

Their double green, the lovely Victorian pavilion, the players and the wonderful and catering staff – everyone made Burpham players and traveling spectators most welcome.

Burpham captain Alan Mogg, left, welcomed by the two Southbourne captains of the day, one for each green.

The match was as close as one could get. Southbourne just managed to gain revenge for last year’s home defeat by pipping Burpham by 12 shots only.

Players at Southbourne awaiting rink allocations.

Ahead of a truly remarkable hot dinner, which Burpham players unanimously praised, the club captains agreed to have a decider match next year, again in Southbourne.

Players enjoying dinner after the game at Southbourne.

A day earlier, we managed to beat Ripley by 45 shots to 24, at Ripley, in the Guildford, Woking & District Men’s League. We were pleased as they had somehow secured a win last year!

Later that day, at Burpham, the Surrey County Competition, 2019, men’s Triples quarter finals were held at our club.

Surrey County triples quarter-finalists.

This is a much appreciated accolade for both our club, and the GBC green-keepers. A huge and appreciative crowd watched intensely as all but two county badged players, fought it out, with great skill on display.

Part of the large crowd watching at Burpham.

Burpham was honoured with the presence of Peter Marshall, president of Surrey County Bowling Association, Joe Cable, senior vice-president and Martin Harbottle, junior vice-president.

Officials from the Surrey County Bowling Association. From left: Martin Harbottle, Peter Marshall and Joe Cable.

The green at Burpham has again been chosen on Tuesday, July 16, for the semi-finals of the men’s Surrey triples. We expect even more spectators that evening.

With Burpham players involved in other Surrey competitions on Saturday, July 13, there was no friendly match played that day.

Merrow Village Bowls Club report by David Raison

On Sunday, July 14, Merrow hosted Westfield for a match of four triples. After the heat of recent days, it was nice to have a cooler day for our match.

Trial ends.

Westfield are a strong side and, true to form, Merrow were soon under pressure. It soon became apparent that, unless we made a remarkable tecovery, Westfield were going to win the match.

Rink 2 watch a Westfield bowl.

However, Merrow never give up, and continued to fight hard. A break for tea was welcomed by both sides. Our thanks to John and Sally for the refreshments.

After the break, Westfield continued to extend their lead, finally winning the match 49-81.