Burst pipe wrecks Woodbastwick floor yet again!

For the second time in less than two years Woodbastwick have suffered a serious flood at their venue. A burst pipe just before Christmas has again left them needing a new floor which it is hoped will be in place sometime in January. The last flooring put in place proved difficult to say the least for visiting teams and it will be interesting to see how the mats play on the new floor when Peter Jablonowski and his team are back in action. Woodbastwick was the venue for a Bure League Singles Championship heat scheduled for Thursday 13^th January but this heat has now been re-scheduled and will take place at South Walsham Village Hall on Friday 14^th January.

Irish short mat bowlers celebrated at Stormont

While the public profile of short mat bowls in England continues to be almost non-existent it is interesting to note the difference in Ireland. This season the Irish Indoor Bowling Association, who administers short mat bowls in Ireland, celebrated their 50^th anniversary. To mark this event publicly the Irish Minister for Culture & Arts, Nelson McCausland, hosted a reception at Stormont and paid tribute to the work of the Association and highlighted many of their achievements. IIBA President Ronnie McDermott responded to the Minister’s speech by thanking him for the invitation to Stormont and spoke about the growth of the Association over the fifty years. Special presentations were made to Colm McHugh, Edwin Irwin & Dessie Hamilton. Colm has received 54 international caps, Edwin 54 & Dessie 51.

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Norfolk County Cup

A classic Norfolk County Cup clash at Cromer saw the sea-siders entertain powerful Breckland League side Connaught “A” on a freezing night. A great first half was shared with two great last end woods by Connaught skip Ray Wells earning his triple a 15-14 win against former Coltishall favourite Jane James. Cromer skip Aleck Haynes was the home sides hero against Bill Adcock’s triple as he produced some superb bowls over the last six ends to win 18-11 in a game that Cromer trailed by 11-9 after nine ends. After the break Cromer’s John Andreae had a dream start against county star Sheila Bragg scoring six shots on the first end and led 10-0 after three ends. A determined recovery saw Bragg’s triple cut the deficit to just 14-13 with one end left but Andreae’s triple snatched a single to win an amazing game by 15-13 and this proved to be a vital win. The remaining game saw a bright start by Ollie Allen’s Connaught triple who led Richard Airs’ Cromer triple by 6-1 after three ends but the home triple hit back to take an 11-6 lead after eight ends. The Connaught triple dug deep to come back and win 16-13 to leave both sides with two wins apiece. With a total of 60 shots against 55 it was Cromer who celebrated victory and they can now look forward to entertaining Thorpe Marriott in the quarter-finals.

Breckland League

Wymondham finished off their 2010 fixtures with a perfect 10-0 home win against Hingham Yellow, scoring 100 shots against just 32, and can sit back and enjoy their Christmas break 16 points clear at the top of the Breckland League. Mikey George, Peter King & Chris Mann scored a 31-8 win, Brian Saunders’ triple contributed a 27-9 win, Debbie Phillips’ triple won 24-7 and young Mark Linsdell returned an 18-8 scoreline. Connaught “A” reached the mid-season break with eight wins and just one defeat and look the only possible threat to Wymondham. They beat Yaxham 8-2 with Diane Adcock, Ollie Allen & Bill Adcock winning 36-8 against former Norfolk singles champion Russell Harris while Sheila Bragg’s triple continued their good form with a 27-12 win against Denny Cross. Yaxham’s only points were earned by John Turner’s triple with a creditable 26-8 win. Two nights later Connaught “A” visited Watton with changes in all their four triples but still produced another 8-2 win with Bill Adcock’s triple winning 24-8. Harling moved up to third with their fourth home win from five games as they ran out 8-2 winners against Carleton Rode. Betty Murphy, Terry Murphy & Matt Cunningham were top scorers winning 25-9 while Roy Buffrey’s triple won 24-12 and Brian Knappett’s triple won 20-14. Bottom team Connaught “B” won for just the second time this season beating Hingham Green 6-4 while Forncett beat Watton 8-2.

Coastal League

Woodbastwick Eagles are flying high in the Coastal League after a 13-5 home win against Stalham leaves them nine points clear of second placed Hemsby. Two defeats for Hemsby, 14-4 at Bradwell Red and 12-6 at home to Bradwell Blue, derailed their title bid. Defending champions Woodbastwick Eagles suffered only their second defeat of the campaign at South Walsham where they went down 12-6 but look hot favourites to retain the title.

Posted 23-12-10

Norfolk Allocations for Nationals

Norfolk has once again earned a top allocation for the National Championships in 2011. Norfolk’s Competition Secretary Peter Smart has been informed that the county has been allocated 4 places in the National Singles, Pairs, Triples, Fours & Mixed Fours events and 3 places in the National Under 18’s. Norfolk’s bowlers earn their place at the Nationals through the combined Norfolk County Championship/National Qualifying Competitions held primarily at Lakeside Country Club in Lyng.

Posted 22-12-10

Craig Burgess Announces Another Event

Essex & England bowler Craig Burgess has announced another competition, this time sponsored by the ESMBA. The charity event, billed as the St George’s Cup, will feature two teams representing The North of England & The South of England and will take place at Erdington Court Bowls Club in Birmingham on the weekend of the 26^th/ 27^th March. The South team for the match has been published and includes two Norfolk based players, Chris Mann of Wymondham and Trevor Brown of Bob Carter, and seven Essex players who are Barry Hedges, Babs Morokutti, Dominic Reed, Adam Sultana, Jack Shepherd, Mitchell Young & Craig Burgess in the 32 named. The remainder of the team named are Chris Hopkins, Leigh Hall & Edward Sawbridge of Northants, Phil Atkins, Lee Toleman, James Trott & Mike Ivings of Devon, Jason McLean, Paul Goodman, Ben Pay & James Bucknall of Hampshire, Roger Wiggins & Steve McAlister of Oxfordshire, Jody Frampton & Mark Wiedeholz of Kent, Andy Cowlin & Chris Shakeshaft of Somerset, Marc Lancaster & Matt Allen of West Sussex, Andy Beard of East Sussex, Mark Jones of Surrey, Mark White of Dorset & Phil Warr of Avon.

Posted 21-12-10

Norfolk County Triples Championship

Carter’s Jean Woods, Malcolm Reynolds & Kim Bridge lifted the Norfolk County Triples Championship title at Lyng beating Wymondham’s Pat Saunders, Debbie Phillips & Chris Mann by 11-2 in the final. It has been a tremendous season for Jean Woods who has already tasted county success winning the Norfolk Mixed Fours title while for Jean’s daughter Kim Bridge it was a second county triples title having previously won back in 2004/05. For Norfolk Over 60’s regular Malcolm Reynolds it was that all important first county title. England international Chris Mann and his triple started the final as firm favourites but Kim Bridge’s triple were not to be denied as they stormed to title glory. In the playoff for third place Thorpe Marriott’s Sheila & Ted Redwood, skipped by Anglian Window’s star Mike Boswell, beat Rita & Owen Secker of Yaxham and Ty Musk of Connaught by 8-6. In another twist to the day defending champion Melvin Woods, playing with Nigel Willard & John Turner, was shown the exit door by wife Jean and daughter Kim when her triple defeated them by 9-2.

Posted 20-12-10

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Norwich Cup

Wymondham’s Billie Barker, Shirley Foster & Debbie Phillips came from behind in all their three games to produce a hat-trick of wins against a talented Cromer side in their Norwich Cup clash. Mikey George, Peter King & Chris Mann added wins of 8-2 & 11-1 before Cromer conceded at 14-6 down. The Breckland League giants have been handed another home draw in the third round but current Tens League & South Norfolk League champions Hempnall are certain to field a strong side in what promises to be a classic cup tie. The quarter-final draw gives Hingham a difficult away tie at Bob Carter while Connaught “A” will entertain Watton in an all Breckland League clash. Hevingham will hope that home advantage will prove crucial as they entertain Thorpe Marriott.

Norfolk County Cup

County Cup action saw Coltishall beat Hingham 8-0 with Les Harman’s triple winning 21-3.

Bure League

The top of the table match in the Bure League was at Kirby Bedon where the leaders entertained second placed Woodbastwick. The away side was in good form making it an uncomfortable night for Kirby who looked out of touch for much of the time. A tremendous last wood winner by Kirby skip Joe Brown denied Woodbastwick what looked certain victory leaving Kirby celebrating a 6-4 win. Martin Edridge, Mally Catchpole & Margaret Harman stormed to a 31-5 win as Coltishall beat Anglian Windows 8-2 with Mike Boswell’s triple again collecting the visitor’s only points.

Tens League

Since signing England international Trevor Brown the Bob Carter team have enjoyed excellent Tens League results with this week’s 2-0 win at the home of league champions Hempnall the best so far. J & M Woods led the way with a 19-12 pairs win against home favourite Paul Baker with Neil Davidson the only home skip to win. Carter fielded an unfamiliar looking side at home to Horsford Heroes with Roy Walker, Gary High & Steven Lamb of Halvergate all in action. Jason Foster & Nigel Willard gave Carter a great start beating Sue Fox & Mark Tuttle 24-6 and they easily achieved a maximum 4 points.

Breckland League

Yaxham moved up to third in the Breckland League beating Hingham Yellow 8-2 with John Turner’s triple winning by 26-10. Banham are third after an 8-2 home win against Watton in which J Delaney’s triple won 18-10. Connaught “B” slumped to their eighth defeat in nine games losing 8-2 at Hingham Yellow where N Thorpe’s triple won 28-8 while Carleton Rode beat Forncett 8-2.

South Norfolk League

Hempnall made it eight wins in a row in the South Norfolk League taking maximum points at home to Connaught with Roger Parker’s triple strolling to a 26-6 win. Wreningham won for the first time this season beating fellow strugglers Mulbarton 10-0 as G Adcock’s triple recorded a 25-5 win. Thurton went down 8-2 at Watton where D Paffey, D Quadling & D Braham won 22-6. Framingham Earl failed to collect a point at Horsford where Mark “The Marvel” Tuttle and his triple won 21-5 against Karl Bunn.

Posted 17-12-10

Latest News

Norfolk "A" 24 (188) v Suffolk 16 (173)

Norfolk Premier 29 (188) v City of Norwich League 11 (148)

Norfolk “A” beat Suffolk 24-16 in a competitive I.C.C local derby at Lakeside with the singles and pairs leading the way. Haddiscoe’s Jenny & Peter Walker emerged victorious in both their games by margins of 14-12 & 16-13 while Chris Musk & Elaine Cole added a second half win. In the singles Colin Coman of First Bus was in good form winning by 17-8 & 15-10 while Sheila Bragg contributed a 13-10 win. The Norfolk triples had a good first half with Steven Lamb, Alison Rush & Ray Lamb winning 17-7 and Sheila Redwood, Joe Brown & David Dewing winning 7-5 but both second half games went Suffolk’s way. The rinks proved costly for Norfolk with a second half 15-9 win for Roger Green, Ollie Allen, Neil Davidson & Les Chapman the only success. The result moves Norfolk “A” up to second place in their group just one point ahead of Suffolk. Norfolk Premier beat a City League Select team 29-11 in a friendly match.

Tens League

Hempnall continue to impress in the Tens League with a 4-0 win at Horsford Heroes. Joan Cann & Neil Davidson swept to a 27-5 pairs win while Steven Oldfield, Charlie Archer & Roger Parker won 26-6 in the triples. A team hoping to challenge them is Bob Carter who won 4-0 at Kirby Bedon. J Woods, M Reynolds & England’s David Lamb stunned the home side with a massive 26-3 win against Gerald Chilver’s triple. Carter moved top with a 3-0 win at Connaught where Sue Hunt, Jason Woods & Robert Howlett won 17-6 but Hempnall are just three points behind with three games in hand.

City of Norwich League

RG Carter’s push up the City of Norwich League continued as they picked up 31 points. A 10-4 away win at First Bus damaged the home side’s title hopes while RG Carter collected all 14 points at home to Horsford BC. In their other match they visited Jarrolds and held them to a 7-7 draw. Thorpe Marriott beat Taverham 12-4 in their City Shield clash.

Bure League

Kirby Bedon continue to top the Bure League after an 8-2 home win against Anglian Windows but the home side were pushed hard. Kirby’s best win was a 19-12 result for Leonora Chilman, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith while Mike Boswell’s triple earned the visitor’s only points beating Alistair Hunter’s triple 15-11. Anglian Windows also went down 8-2 at Woodbastwick where Peter Jablonowski’s triple won 25-9 but Mike Boswell’s triple were again impressive scoring Window’s only points with a superb 22-7 win on the difficult Woodbastwick surface.

Norwich Cup

Norwich Cup action saw Hempnall beat Horsford Heroes 14-6 with Roger Parker’s triple winning their games 7-6 & 8-1 and Paul Baker & Jon Sparham both winning two out of three games. An entertaining match at Thorpe Marriott saw the hosts and visitors East Tuddenham sharing the first four sessions to leave the score at 8-8 with two sessions to play. The fifth session proved vital as Margaret McPherson, Ted Redwood & Richard Perkins defeated John Turner’s triple 8-0 and Janet Pinchen, Trevor Pinchen & Sylvia Turner beat Russell Harris 10-3 to give Thorpe Marriott a 12-8 points lead and a 54-44 shots lead with one session left. This was shared leaving Marriott winners by 14-10.

Coastal League

Woodbastwick Eagles scored a valuable 12-6 Coastal League local derby win at Woodbastwick Owls to move top of the Coastal League. The Owls are third after an 18-0 demolition job was completed against struggling Stalham. South Walsham mid table position was maintained with a 12-6 home win against Bradwell Red. Stalham also beat Bradwell Red 12-6.

Breckland League

Wymondham opened up their lead in the Breckland League to 22 points with an 8-2 win at Watton where Chris Mann’s triple won 20-8. Second placed Connaught “A” won 7-3 in their derby at Connaught “B as Chris Musk, Bob Oatway & Ray Wells produced a great 32-5 win against Ken Lurcock’s triple to secure the match points. Harling lost ground on the top two as they went down 8-2 at Banham where V Footer, D Grey & J Williamson won 29-5.

Thurne League

Its now five wins out of five for Bradwell in the Thurne League with South Walsham the latest victims, an 8-2 home win for Bradwell takes them up to second with six games in hand over leaders Hemsby. Halvergate won 6-4 at Woodbastwick while Hemsby lost 7-3 at home to Woodbastwick.

Posted 11-12-10

Norfolk County Mixed Fours Championship

Jenny Walker of Haddiscoe, Jean Woods of Bob Carter, Jon Sparham of Hempnall & David Lamb of Halvergate retained the Norfolk County Mixed Fours Championship at Lakeside and became the first rink to win this title in successive years. They hit top form in the final beating Sheila Johnstone of British Rail, Linda Chadwick, Les Chadwick & David Dewing of Sprowston by 12-2. In the third place play-off Chris Musk, Russell Hales, Ty Musk & Sheila Bragg of Connaught won by 8-3 against Sue Hunt, Kim Bridge, Jason Woods & Melvin Woods of Bob Carter. David Lamb’s rink were involved in a tight semi-final match against Melly Woods’ rink which went down to an extra end in which Lamb’s rink scored two shots for a 9-7 win. The other semi-final match saw Dewing’s rink run out 13-4 winners against Bragg’s rink.

Posted 6-12-10

Latest News

Piero Cognetti & Paul Isgate of Horsford won the Bure League Pairs qualifying heat at Kirby Bedon after a great recovery against Woodbastwick’s Elsie Couling & Derek Sheldrake. They conceded a five on the opening end but fought back to draw 6-6. The result meant that the Woodbastwick pair also qualified as runners-up. A strong line-up at the Horsford heat was won by Kirby Bedon’s Teresa & Selwyn Goldsmith with four straight wins. Three other pairs all finished with four points but Gillian & Robin Amos of East Tuddenham earned the second qualifying place on shot difference while seeded Woodbastwick pair Martin & Eddy Edridge and Anglian Window’s Alan Williamson & Mike Boswell missed out on final’s night places. Coltishall’s Ann Ducker & Willie Jefferies were unbeaten at the Anglian Windows heat winning three games and drawing one. Defending champions Shirley Brown & Gerald Chilvers of Kirby Bedon needed to win their last game against Hevingham’s Pat Williamson & Alan Bunn to qualify but lost 7-2 which earned the Hevingham pair a final’s night place. In the heat at Coltishall the outcome was undecided until the last session where any of the four pairs playing could still qualify. Trevor Hallett & Jim Couling of Woodbastwick delivered the goods eliminating last year’s runners-up Jimmy Dye & Joe Brown with a 14-6 win while Maureen & Ken Dease of Anglian Windows secured the other place beating Horsford’s Dennis Seaton & Mick Dale by 7-4. A classic Norwich Cup clash at Woodbastwick saw the home side lose by a whisker against a Bob Carter side fielding three England internationals. In the last session Peter Jablonowski’s triple beat Robert Howlett 9-7 to keep Woodbastwick’s hopes alive but Carter’s Melly Woods held Norma Jablonowski’s triple to a 5-5 draw which clinched victory by 13-11 on points with the sides level on shots at 59-59. Thurne League leaders Hemsby beat Halvergate 8-2 to gain revenge for their defeat there in October. Bradwell still remain the only unbeaten side after their 8-2 home win against Woodbastwick. East Tuddenham suffered their first Bure League defeat of the season going down 8-2 at Woodbastwick where Norma Jablonowski’s triple won 20-10. Horsford Heroes moved to just two points behind City League leaders Sprowston but could have gone top if they had not lost 12-2 in the local derby at Horsford BC. Old Bonds enjoyewd only their second win as they beat Felthorpe 9-5. Jarrolds blew away visitors Anglian Windows 14-0. City League Shield action saw Horsford Heroes and County Council level on 8 points each but Horsford won 120-94 on shots. South Norfolk League action saw Hempnall chalk up their sixth consecutive win beating struggling Saxlingham 10-0 in a largely one sided encounter. Watton kept up their rich vein of form beating Framingham Earl 8-2 with Terry Crockett’s triple winning 19-7. Wreningham remain without a win after losing 6-4 at home to Horsford. Connaught though proved too strong for Horsford beating them 8-2 with Sheila Bragg’s triple starring for the home side winning 23-5. Framingham Earl were held to a 5-5 draw by visitors Thurton despite Mervyn Blaza winning 19-5. Breckland League action saw Harling move into third place after a 10-0 home win against Watton with Betty Murphy, Terry Murphy & Matt Cunningham leading the way with a 21-5 win. Neil Davidson’s Carleton Rode triple won 21-7 at Connaught “A” but the home side swept to an 8-2 win winning all the other games. Connaught “B” are bottom after losing 8-2 at home to Yaxham and then losing by the same score at Banham. Watton beat Hingham Green 6-4 in a close match with the match points secured by Roger Braham’s triple who won 23-11. Hevingham have experienced one of their worst Bure League starts ever but moved three places up the table with a 10-0 win at St Faiths where John Richardson’s triple won 19-6. St Faiths have yet to gain a point after three games but Pam Daynes came close losing by just 18-16 to George Clarke.

Posted 5-12-10

Paul Isgate & Piero Cognetti

Latest News

Hevingham cruised through to the next round of the Norwich Cup defeating Framingham Earl 14-2 with the visitors conceding with two sessions remaining. The home side opened with Vic Woods’ triple winning 12-2 and Pat Williamson’s triple winning 8-1 and with George Clarke & David Sharp’s triples winning the next two games the City League team were on their way out. Watton claimed the scalp of Bure League champions Kirby Bedon after a classic cup tie at the Breckland League sides venue. With four mats down the match was played over three sessions and with just one session left the teams were level at 8-8 on points with Watton 44-43 up on shots. Watton’s June Walker, Maggie Dibble & Daphne Braham completed a hat-trick of wins to see Watton to victory by just 13-11 with Phil Watson & Selwyn Goldsmith’s triples winning two games apiece for Kirby. Saxlingham suffered without regular skip Geoff Payne at home to Hingham where they slumped to a 13-7 loss. J Baker, R Naish & N Thorpe won their three games by 6-3, 10-5 & 9-2 for Hingham. Connaught made a good start at home to Forncett and finished up winning 13-7 as Sheila Bragg’s triple scored maximum points. County Cup action saw Bob Carter win 5-3 at home to Thurton. M Greenacre’s triple beat England international David Lamb 14-9 and P Carter drew 11-11 with Robert Howlett to give Thurton a good start at Carter but the home side recovered to win with Nigel Willard scoring a 22-4 victory and Melvin Woods winning 19-7. In the Bure League East Tuddenham won 6-4 at Horsford BC with Jessie Palgrave, Chris Turner & John Turner winning 15-9 and Geraldine Potter, Gerald Potter & Denny Cross winning 17-6.

In the City League First Bus have stormed up to third place with a 14-0 home win against Old Bonds, a 12-2 win at Taverham and a 7-7 draw against Deaf Sports. Thorpe Marriott beat Deaf Sports 10-4 but lost 12-2 at RG Carter. In the City League Shield British Rail won 10-6 at Felthorpe while Sprowston beat Deaf Sports 8-0.

Posted 29-11-10

England Ace Joins Bob Carter

Overshadowing local results this week is the news that Oxfordshire & England ace Trevor Brown, former National Singles Champion, has signed for Bob Carter. Trevor Brown, crowned World Fours Champion in Belgium in 2008, dominated the sport in 2006 when he won both the England National Pairs & Fours Championships. He represented England in the British Isles Singles Championships on the Isle of Man two weeks ago where he finished third despite beating the eventual champion from Ireland. Bob Carter will be delighted with this transfer coup after their bid to win back the Tens League title from Hempnall this season has already suffered with defeats at both Hevingham & Coltishall.

Posted 26-11-10

Bob Carter regular & England international Melly Woods won the City League Pairs title with RG Carter team-mate Malcolm Reynolds. They narrowly defeated First Bus pairing Betty Cox & Colin Coman in the final at Lakeside Country Club.

Melvin Wood

Latest Breckland News

Ollie Allen Returns for Connaught

The good news for Connaught “A” was the return of the talented young Ollie Allen to short mat bowls action but the bad news was the end of their unbeaten run at Wymondham. Despite putting up stout resistance at the home of defending Breckland League champions Wymondham they could not stop the league leaders extending the gap at the top. Sheila Bragg continued her good run with a 17-11 win for Connaught but Wymondham won the other three games with Chris Mann’s triple winning 25-14, Debbie Phillips’ triple winning 17-12 and Mark Linsdell’s triple winning 13-9. In their previous match Wymondham swept Connaught “B” aside by 10-0. Sylvia Archer, Shirley Foster & Debbie Phillips are undoubtedly the form triple in the league and added a 28-9 win against Joyce Hazell’s triple to their list of conquests this season. Billie Barker, Peter King & Chris Mann won 23-5 and Melvyn Barker, Andrew Stratton & Brian Saunders won 26-8 and Wymondham’s shot difference is an impressive +233 after seven games. Yaxham won 6-4 at home to Harling as the visitors put up an impressive performance winning on two mats. The bonus points were secured by Yaxham’s Reg Wilson, Albert Palgrave & John Turner who raced to a 34-6 win and Owen Secker’s triple who won 19-7. Yaxham will be disappointed to have lost valuable home points as Betty Murphy, Terry Murphy & Matt Cunningham beat Russell Harris’ triple 15-14 and Beryl Potter, Peter Dennis & Arthur Snelling beat Betty Steed, Madge Meachen & Denny Cross by 20-15. Three days earlier Harling had won 8-2 at Hingham Yellow where Betty Murphy, Terry Murphy & Peter Dennis won 16-11 and Gerald Palframan, Pauline Barsby & Brian Knappett won 16-12. Both other games were drawn.

Hingham Green won 6-4 at home to Carleton Rode with David Mylchreest, Jim Roache & Mike White winning 31-10.

Posted 24-11-10

British Isles Championships 2010

Team Event

The 2010 British Isles Championships were hosted by the Isle of Man and once again Ireland triumphed in the Team event beating England 36-31, Isle of Man 77-12, Scotland 60-20 and Wales 36-32. England were runners-up beating Isle of Man 73-14, Scotland 53-27 & Wales 35-27 before their narrow defeat against the Irish. Wales were third with the Isle of Man fourth. Scotland finished last losing all their games including a surprise 33-32 defeat against the Isle of Man.

Individual Events

England will be delighted with their performances in the individual events winning both the B.I Pairs and B.I Fours titles and finishing runners-up in the B.I Triples. Devon’s Michael Ivings & the legendary Lee Toleman lifted the British Isles Pairs winning four out of five games, the same as Ireland. A 14-8 win against the Irish and a massive 29-4 win against the Isle of Man helped them on their way to British Isles glory. Warwick France, Allan Williams, Chris Shakeshaft & Chris Williams of Shropshire were unbeaten in the British Isles Fours as were the Welsh rink. Their crunch match finished level at 11-11 but the English four beat the Isle of Man 20-2 while Wales could only beat them 11-8. The Irish rink had a shocking day by their standards losing 12-9 to Scotland, 17-6 to England and 12-7 to Wales who finished as runners-up. Dave Hayward (Warwickshire), Martin Walker (Cheshire) & Jon Pitcher of Warwickshire finished runners-up in the British Isles Triples. Ireland won the title beating Scotland 31-8, Wales 25-8 & Isle of Man 26-3 but were beaten by Pitcher’s England triple 13-10. Unfortunately the England triple lost 13-9 to Wales which cost them the title. Despite finishing third in the B.I Singles Oxfordshire’s Trevor Brown can take consolation in the fact that he beat the eventual champion from Ireland 13-10 and that his only defeat was against second placed Wales.

Irish Team

International Rinks

Rink 1. G Burke (Western), G McCabe (Oriel), P Reid (Lisburn) & G Lithgo (Mid Antrim)

Rink 2. C McHugh (Mid Ulster), U McKeeman (North East), R O’Neill (North West) & J McCaffrey (Western)

Rink 3. R Stubbs (Lisburn), G Conroy (Mid Tyrone), J Beattie (Armagh) & P Duff (Oriel)

Rink 4. J Quinn (Donegal), A Paul (Mid Ulster), L Harrison (North West) & D J Wilson (West Down)

Singles A Paul (Mid Ulster)

Pairs C Hill & W Wilson (Mid Ulster)

Triples K O’Neill, L Harrison & R O’Neill (North West)

Fours M Conroy, P Conroy, M Savage & G Conroy (Mid Tyrone)

The Irish team will play a practice match in preparation for the British Isles at St Matthews Hall, Richill on Monday 8^th November when they will play the Armagh Zone at 8pm after a 7.15pm team briefing.

Posted 17-10-10

I.C.C News

It proved to be a bad day at the office for both Norfolk Premier and Norfolk “A” teams in their Inter-County Championship games at Lakeside on Sunday. Norfolk Premier went down to their second defeat of the season losing 28-12 against Northants while Norfolk “A” went down by the same score-line against Cambridgeshire. Mark Linsdell, Nigel Willard & Chris Mann put up a good performance in the triples winning both their games by 10-8 and 16-9 while George Clarke’s triple won one game by 12-10 to earn Norfolk 8 points in the triples. An 18-10 win for Peter Smart against England’s Edward Sawbridge was the highlight in the singles but he could not stop England’s Leigh Hall who beat both Smart and John Turner. In the other singles match Edward Sawbridge defeated John Turner. Jean Barnett, Avril Grapes, Debbie Phillips & Brian Saunders, who won twice in Essex, added another 14-5 win. With both Norfolk pairs losing twice and David Lamb’s rink also failing to score Norfolk Premier continue to lose ground in their group. In the Norfolk “A” team Steven Lamb of Halvergate, Gerald Chilvers of Kirby Bedon & Ray Lamb of Halvergate won their triples games by 13-4 & 15-8 and Peter Adcock, Russell Hales, David Dewing & Les Chadwick won by 19-2 & 9-6 in the rinks. An 11-11 draw for Sheila Bragg and a 6-6 draw for Shirley Brown, Brian Bunting, Ty Musk & Charlie Archer added to Norfolk’s points. The pairs had a day to forget as Cambs ran up a total of 74 shots against just 23 as Norfolk failed to find the sparkling form they displayed in Essex in their previous match.

Posted 17-10-10

Norfolk's Mark Linsdell - Two Wins

Latest News

Breckland

Defending championsWymondham celebrated a 10-0 home win against title rivals Yaxham. Sylvia Archer, Shirley Foster & Debbie Phillips crushed a triple skipped by former England player Madge Meachen by 29-3 while Chris Mann won 22-7 & Steve Phillips won 21-12. Maximum points were earned with a dramatic last wood winner bowled by Peter King as he defeated John Turner’s triple by one shot. Yaxham fared better at Carleton Rode where they won 8-2 with Rita Secker, Pauline Wilson & Owen Secker starring with a 27-12 win. Carleton Rodealso slipped to a 6-4 defeat at Watton. Sylvia Briggs & G Coleman gave Carleton a good start with one shot wins but Watton hit back with Roger Braham’s triple winning 17-12 and Daphne Braham winning 22-6 to earn the bonus points.

Tens

All four games went Kirby Bedon’s way as they won 4-0 at home to Horsford Heroes. Dot Dawson, Shirley Brown & Phil Watson won 23-9 while Jimmy Dye & Gerald Chilvers won 26-3. The other games were tighter as Jan Hewitt & Teresa Goldsmith won 15-12 and Joe Brown’s triple won 16-11.

City League

“High Fives” all around for Sprowston as they made it five wins on the trot this week. An excellent 10-4 win at Jarrolds was followed by a 14-0 battering of visitors Horsford BC to take them 29 points clear at the top. Framingham Earl’s miserable form continued as they slumped to a 14-0 home defeat against Thorpe Marriott, Framingham’s fourth defeat in a row. Old Bonds opened their league campaign with a disappointing 12-2 defeat at Costessey while Felthorpe won for the first time beating Framingham Earl 10-4. John Green’s triple beat Colin Emms 18-6 and Marjorie Hall’s triple beat Karl Bunn 18-4 to give Felthorpe a boost while Mervyn Blaza and Ray Lumley hit back for the visitors. The Felthorpe side took match points courtesy of a 12 shots advantage.

Norwich Cup

Cup action saw holders Woodbastwick make easy work of reaching the second round beating Felthorpe 18-6. It was practically one way traffic as the home side won nine of the first ten games. Arthur Foster, Derek Oakes & Peter Jablonowski won 10-2, 13-1 & 12-0 while Elsie Couling, Brian Frost & Derek Sheldrake won 9-2, 7-3 & 7-3. An all City League clash saw Thorpe Marriott grab a 5 shot win at Costessey after the teams finished level on points at 12-12. The visitors enjoyed a great start winning the first four games to move 8-0 up but Costessey then did the same winning four games in a row to level things up at. The fifth session was shared and with one session remaining the incredible score-line read 10-10 on points and 52-52 on shots. Cliffe Mann’s Costessey triple did their bit winning 7-2 but Joan Temple, Trevor Hart & Tony Turner claimed a second round place for Thorpe Marriott with a 10-0 win to break Costessey hearts.

Posted 16-10-10

International Open Dates Announced

Craig Burgess today announced the details of the 2011 International Open. It will take place at Havering Indoor Bowls Club with the Fours event on Saturday 23rd April and the Pairs on Sunday 24th April. Cash prizes will be £2,000 for the winners of the Fours, £800 for the runners-up and £200 for the losing semi-finalists. There will also be a £200 prize for the winners of the Fours Plate. The Pairs event will carry a first prize of £1,000, £400 for the runners-up and £100 for the semi-finalists. A £200 prize is also on offer for the winners of the Pairs Plate.

Latest News

Norfolk's three England Squad bowlers, Chris Mann of Wymondham, Melvin Woods of Bob Carter & David Lamb of Halvergate will miss out on the chance of British Isles Championship glory this season. England manager Keith Smith omitted all three when he named his side this week. Chris Mann appears to have paid the price for not playing on the Sunday when England played the annual Presidents Weekend, many thought he was a certainty for the team as England again attempt to stop Ireland winning yet another British Isles title.

Posted 12-10-10

South Norfolk new-boys Framingham Earl did not achieve the start they hoped for as they went down 10-0 at home to Horsford. Peter Adcock's triple came close to earning a point but slipped to an 11-10 defeat against Roger Frank. Ray Lumley's triple got Framingham's first two points on the board in their second match against defending champions Hempnall when he beat Jon Sparham's triple 17-4 but they still lost by 8-2 overall. Hempnall also won 8-2 at Horsford where Paul Baker won 20-8, Jon Sparham won 17-9 & Neil Davidson won 19-8. Watton edged a close match at Connaught by 6-4 where Brenda Draper, Bryan Dibble & John Hunter won 24-9 to earn the visitors the match points.
                                                                                 Posted 12-10-10

Norwich Cup 1st round
Last year's beaten finalists Sprowston are out at the first hurdle despite a fighting display at Hempnall. Colin Stevenson, Syd Harman & Jon Sparham produced three wins as Hempnall won 14-10 on points. Charlie Archer's triple had a bad night for Hempnall failing to score while Margaret Poynter, Joan Costello & David Ramsey led Sprowston's efforts winning two games against Charlie Archer & Neil Davidson. Wymondham were on unfamiliar ground but held out to win 14-10 at Horsford BC. The opening two sessions were shared before the visitors opened up winning four straight games to lead 12-4. Horsford fought back to trail by just 12-8 with a session remaining and needed to win both games left but Billy Barker, Shirley Foster & Debbie Phillips saw Wymondham over the finishing line with an 8-3 win. City League giants First Bus visited Bob Carter but found one-way traffic conditions in force as they slumped to a 16-0 points defeat before conceding with four games left unplayed. Nigel Willard's triple won 10-2 & 7-2, Melly Woods' triple won 6-5 & 7-2, Robert Howlett's triple won 11-3 & 7-4 and Malcolm Reynold's triple won 11-3 & 7-4 for Carter. Kirby Bedon won 13-7 at Coltishall where Carol Johnson, Peter Johnson & Gerald Chilvers won both their games as did Leonora Chilman, Janice Hewitt & Phil Watson. Coltishall conceded after session five when a great attacking wood by Kirby Bedon captain and former Scottish international Alistair Hunter swept the jack into the ditch to score four shots and a 9-5 win against Margaret Harman's triple. Kirby had made a solid start with Dot Dawson, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith beating Margaret Harman's triple 7-0 and Phil Watson's triple beating Willie Jefferies' triple 7-6 and Kirby held on to the lead throughout. Saxlingham Nethergate proved too strong for visitors St Faiths winning 21-3. Pat Meale, Peter Cook & Geoff Briggs won all three games for the home side as did Ken Hobbs, Alice Payne & Geoff Payne and Jean King, Margaret McCluskey & Sheila Hook. Forncett won 15-5 at Connaught "B" after a tight start saw the points shared at 4-4 after two sessions. The visitors then moved into top gear winning five games and drawing one before Connaught "B" conceded. Rebecca Humphreys, Ethel Coleman & Keith Humphreys won 7-5, 6-2 & 6-2 while David Girling, Joan Rumsby & Dennis Rumsby won 6-4, 8-1 & 4-3. Hingham finished with a flourish at Mulbarton winning three and drawing one of the last four games to win 15-9. Graham Tweed, Ken Buller & Keith Thomas starred for the visitors winning 6-1, 6-3 & 5-3. Old Bonds suffered a huge 22-2 defeat at Watton as the Breckland League side blasted their way into the next round.
League News
Defending Coastal League champions Woodbastwick Eagles have kicked off their league campaign with three straight wins beating Bradwell Blue 12-6 home and away and winning 14-4 at home to South Walsham. Defending Breckland League champs Wymondham also got off to a great start winning 10-0 at Harling. Top triple for the visitors were Pat saunders, Mark Linsdell & Steve Phillips who won by 32-9. Debbie Phillips' triple won 22-8 against R Buffery's triple with the Harling skip suffering a hand injury during the game. Tens League action saw Kirby Bedon beat Coltishall 3-0 with a great performance by Leonora Chilman, Bob Pattison & Joe Brown the deciding factor. Bob & Joe were in awesome form as their triple thumped Martin Edridge, Eddie Edridge & Mally Catchpole 25-4 with the away triple wilting under the onslaught. A 10-4 home win for Sprowston against Deaf Sports puts them 11 points clear in the City League. Horsford Heroes had started well with two wins but an 11-3 home defeat this week against Jarrolds has slowed their progress. After two defeats County Council got a win on the board beating Jarrolds 10-4. Its four defeats from four games for Taverham who went down 14-0 at RG Carter.
                                                                                                       Posted 10-10-10

       I.C.C Season Begins!

Results - Essex Premier 28 (215) v Norfolk Premier 12 (131)
               Essex "A"         13 (159) v Norfolk "A"        27 (206)

Norfolk began their Inter-County Championship campaign at Stonyhills I.B.C with a tough double header away to Essex. After the excellent result in their final pre-season friendly at home to North Yorkshire last Sunday hopes were high of a good start under the new management team. Both Norfolk teams looked well balanced with the Premier team fielding six Wymondham players including new county team captain Steve Phillips. The match also saw the return to I.C.C competition for ex England players John Turner & George Clarke after their period out of the squad under the previous management team.
Norfolk Premier found Essex Premier in uncompromising mood and at one point it looked like a massive defeat was on the cards. A few points gained later on in the match at least put twelve points on the score-sheet, one consolation is that this is probably Norfolk Premier's hardest group match on paper and points should be easier to gain with this one out of the way. The top performers for Norfolk Premier were Jean Barnett of Coltishall, Avril Grapes of Horsford BC & Wymondham's Debbie Phillips & Brian Saunders. They won both their games beating Sam Lambert's rink 10-2 and Tony Ealham's rink 11-7. Jean Woods of Bob Carter, Diane Adcock of Connaught, Jon Sparham of Hempnall & David Lamb of Halvergate picked up a 7-6 win and with the bonus rink points in the bag it meant that Norfolk scored 8 of their 12 points in the fours. Two of the other four points Norfolk got were gained by the new pairing of Wymondham's Andrew Stratton & Steve Phillips. They won 12-10 with a last bowl by Steve Phillips securing the win. Norfolk's only other win came from Mark Linsdell of Wymondham, Paul Baker of Hempnall & Chris "Blazerman" Mann of Wymondham who won a close triples game 9-7. Essex fielded Craig Burgess & Adam Sultana in the singles and took all ten points as Sprowston's Peter Smart went down 25-4 & 19-4 and East Tuddenham's John Turner lost 13-9 & 17-8. Carter's Nigel Willard & Melvin Woods, skipped by Thorpe Marriott's George Clarke, also lost both their games as did Hempnall's Colin Stevenson & Anglian Windows' Mike Boswell in the pairs.
Norfolk "A" will be delighted with their start to the season after defeating Essex "A" by 27-13. The pairs & rinks inflicted serious damage on Essex winning three games out of four in both disciplines. Connaught's Christine Musk & Woodbastwick's Elaine Cole produced wins of 18-16 & 12-10 while the established pairing of Haddiscoe's Jenny & Peter Walker added a terrific 25-5 win to help the shot difference along. Costessey's Shirley Brown, Thorpe Marriott's Sheila Redwood, Connaught's Ty Musk and Broome's Charlie Archer combined to win their rinks games by 15-4 & 9-3. After losing a tight game 7-9 Peter Adcock of Framingham Earl, Russell Hales of Connaught, Dave Dewing of Sprowston & Les Chadwick of Sprowston won their second game by 10-4. The singles finished all square as Sheila Bragg of Connaught won a game 16-6 and Colin Coman won a game 24-9 and the bonus points in the singles were shared as aggregate shots were level. Both triples won a game apiece with Steven Lamb of Halvergate, Gerald Chilvers of Kirby Bedon & Ray Lamb of Halvergate winning their last game 14-3 and Robert Lamb of Halvergate, Alison Rush of Connaught & Joe Brown of Costessey earning a 16-13 win. This result shows that Norfolk "A" are capable of producing the goods when required and could be serious contenders in the I.C.C "A" section.
                                                                                                    Posted 4-10-10

North Yorkshire SMBA visit Norfolk

North Yorkshire visited Norfolk for a great weekend of county bowls at Lakeside Country Club, Lyng. North Yorks County Secretary/Publicity Officer Roger Green took charge of the trip for North Yorks SMBA which included a stay at Lakeside's lodges and matches against Norfolk Over 60's, Norfolk Premier & Norfolk "A". Teresa Goldsmith, Norfolk Over 60's Organizer/Records Officer, co-ordinated Norfolk's arrangements for the weekend visit of North Yorks which followed on from Norfolk Over 60's two trips to North Yorkshire when Teresa had invited North Yorks back for a return match. North Yorks arrived on Friday and Teresa & Norfolk Chairman Selwyn Goldsmith joined them for dinner at Lakeside. After a nice meal Selwyn was assisted by several North Yorks bowlers to put out eight mats for the weekend. North Yorks then took to the mats to enjoy an evening of short mat competition among themselves.
Saturday morning Teresa's Norfolk Over 60's side arrived for a challenge match against the visitors. Both teams consisted of 38 players, ten pairs and six triples in each team. The match was played over six sessions with each pair & triple playing three games apiece. On their last visit to North Yorks the Norfolk Over 60's team had been well beaten by North Yorks "A" (their equivalent of a Premier team in the I.C.C) but had beaten North Yorks "B" (their equivalent of "A"). The line-up before the start saw Norfolk present Norfolk Over 60's pens to their visitors and a special Norfolk Dialect tea towel to Roger Green which Teresa said would enable Roger to understand what she was talking about when they spoke on the phone. North Yorkshire presented each member of the Norfolk team with a Yorkshire Mug and a pack of Yorkshire tea to mark their visit. The first three sessions saw Norfolk produce some super bowls winning all three sessions 12-4 on points. North Yorks staged a recovery after that but Norfolk Over 60's held firm to win 61-35 on points, 586-471 on shots. Maximum points were scored by five Norfolk Over 60's pairs with three wins apiece. The star performers were Kerry Greenacre & Shirley George (18-5, 21-5, 16-6), Sheila Redwood & Sheila Bragg (18-7, 20-6, 16-8), Trevor Pinchin & Geoff Payne (14-12, 16-13, 20-7), Dorothy Muttitt & Richard Kightley (15-7, 16-7, 17-9), and Len Thurston & Frank Edy (14-9, 22-7, 14-12). Unbeaten in the triples were Sheila Doyle, Russell Hales & Ted Redwood who won 10-8 & 10-7 before drawing their last game 5-5.
On Sunday North Yorks played matches against Norfolk Premier and Norfolk "A" to the normal I.C.C format with the Norfolk County Team Management eager to use the match as a full scale run-out before the opening match of the season against Essex. Norfolk Chairman Selwyn Goldsmith opened the day's proceedings by welcoming both teams at the line-up before the match. He highlighted the work that Roger Green of the North Yorks SMBA and Teresa Goldsmith of Norfolk SMBA had put in to make the weekend a success before introducing the new Norfolk County Team Manager Lianne Mills. North Yorks, represented by Roger and Vice-Chairman Pat Jones, and Lianne then exchanged plaques before the serious business of bowls got underway. Norfolk Premier were in good form and dominated the match with the triples and fours taking maximum points - Robin Amos, Nigel Willard & Melly Woods (13-1, 13-10), Mark Linsdell, Paul Baker & Chris Mann (11-8, 15-4), Jean Barnett, Avril Grapes, Debbie Phillips & Brian Saunders (8-3, 11-7), Elaine Oatway, Jean Woods, Peter Barnett & David Lamb (16-3, 12-5). The pairs were also unbeaten with Wymondham's Andrew Stratton & Steve Phillips winning 14-8 & 11-9 and Colin Stevenson & Mike Boswell winning one and drawing one. In the singles Peter Smart celebrated his promotion to the Premier team with wins of 12-9 & 23-6 but John Turner found the going tough in his return to county singles action. The final score was Norfolk Premier 35 (187) North Yorks 5 (127).
Norfolk "A" completed a hat-trick of wins for Norfolk's three teams as they beat North Yorks. The rinks led the way winning all four games - Peter Adcock, Russell Hales, David Dewing & Les Chadwick (12-2, 12-4), Shirley Brown, Sheila Redwood, Tyrone Musk & Charlie Archer (12-8, 22-0). In the singles Sheila Bragg continued where she left off last season winning her games by 16-15 & 18-7 and the decision by previous manager Brian Saunders to switch her from the pairs into the singles looks inspired. Colin Coman lost his opening game but won his second by 13-6. The triple of Robbie Lamb, Alison Rush & Joe Brown had a good day winning by 14-11 & 19-0 but Steven Lamb, Ted Redwood & Ray Lamb could only muster one point with a 10-10 draw. Jenny & Peter Walker are now an established pairing and kept things tight with a 13-11 win and a 10-10 draw. With the exception of Jon Sparham & George Clarke, who were unavailable for the North Yorks match, the day proved a great opportunity for the Norfolk Team Management to see their new look team in action and they are sure to be delighted with their performance.
POSTED 30-9-10

Latest News
Norfolk began their pre-season preparations with a friendly match against a Norfolk President's Team at Wymondham. Norfolk won by a comfortable 40-10 margin but President's team players who tasted success included pairs Martin & Eddie Edridge and Bernie Cudden & Pat Saunders as well as a triple skipped by Margaret Harman and a rink skipped by the President himself John Aggas. Under new manager Lianne Mills, Norfolk will attempt to re-establish themselves as a force in Inter County Championship bowls this winter. Three players who quit the squad under the previous management team will once again wear the green blazer as Lianne Mills attempts to draw a line under past problems. Veteran bowler George Clarke was Bob Carter's most successful skip during their double winning winter season and will relish a return to county bowls while East Tuddenham's John Turner & Robin Amos also make a return to county action. Other than that the squad has a familiar look about it although Ray Lamb, Robert Lamb & Steven Lamb all join England's David Lamb to give Halvergate their highest ever number of squad players. After a long rest from short mat bowls Andrew Stratton is given an immediate recall by Mills. He will be playing his league bowls for Wymondham this season and that will be a big disappointment to his previous club Connaught. Next weekend North Yorkshire visit Norfolk for a weekend of bowls at Lakeside. On Saturday they play a challenge match against Norfolk Over 60's and on the Sunday they face Norfolk Premier and Norfolk "A". This will be Norfolk's final pre-season match prior to their opening I.C.C double header away to Essex. Norfolk Premier will need to be at their best against a talented Essex side while Northants & London make up the rest of their I.C.C group. Norfolk "A" will have less miles to travel as their other group games are against Suffolk & Cambs. The first Bure League match of the season saw Anglian Windows beat Horsford BC 8-2 with David Walker's triple winning 14-7 and Alan Williamson's triple winning 18-16. Horsford fought all the way with the impressive Paul Isgate earning a 12-12 draw against Norfolk star Mike Boswell and Mick Dale's triple drawing 15-15 with Ann Johnson. Derek Barley ran the annual Carlton Colville tournament in aid of the James Paget Hospital and raised £276-25p. It was a Norfolk v Suffolk final with Lin Smith, Dennis Miller & Alan Smith of Ipswich beating Hazel Briggs, Harold Briggs & Charlie Archer of Broome by 17-4. The Carmichael Cup at East Tuddenham was won by Sprowston's Linda Chadwick, Les Chadwick & Peter Smart who beat Betty Cox, Pauline Foster & Rex Cox of First Bus in the final.

Stanway Quits England Squad?
At international level England's new winter squad got together for the first time for the Presidents Weekend that included games against Cheshire and West Mids "A". There appears to be some confusion over the results as no scores were given out at the end although one player involved said that he thought England had beaten West Mids "A" by around 18-14 but that Cheshire had beaten England. It will come as little surprise to followers of the sport that no information has yet been posted on the ESMBA website. More controversy followed the weekend games as one of England's most gifted bowlers Gareth Stanway apparently quit the England Squad among accusations of backstabbing by younger members of the team. If this is true it will be a major blow to new England manager Keith Smith who it is hoped can repeat his managerial success at Inter-County Championship bowls with Cheshire on the international stage in the British Isles Championships.

Posted 21-9-10

Potters Cup Weekend 2010
The annual Potters Cup weekend at Potters Leisure Resort in Hopton-on-Sea attracted its biggest ever entry with around 200 attending a special Bucks Fizz reception in Zest One to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of one of the biggest weekends of short mat bowls on the calendar. Mark Jones of Potters welcomed everyone before introducing Potters Cup organisers Teresa & Selwyn Goldsmith to conduct the Potters Cup draw. During the draw Selwyn congratulated Halvergate's David Lamb & Wymondham's Chris Mann on their selection for the England team for the coming season. While most headed off to the Atlas Theatre after enjoying dinner in the Garden Restaurant some hardy bowlers got the feel of the mats in the International Arena which was open for practice during the Friday evening.
Saturday was Potters Cup day with a full day of bowling on 20 mats set up in the International Arena. In an early setback defending champions David Lamb, Jon Sparham & Paul Baker went down 7-6 against another previous winner Phil Watson. Last years runners-up Steve Phillips, Debbie Phillips & Chris Mann of Wymondham started well and reeled off three wins of 14-9, 13-2 & 8-7 but slipped up in their fourth game losing 9-8 to Sprowston's John Poynter. Other triples still going well after three games included East Kent triples skipped by Bob Catling & Eddie Churchley, Camb's triples skipped by Geoff Ward & Margaret Smith, Pat Williamson's Hevingham trio, Ken Dease's Anglian Windows triple, Suffolk ace Derek Barley with his Carlton triple and Hempnall's Neil Davidson and his triple. After all the games were completed five triples finished on maximum points with shot difference deciding the line-ups of the Potters Cup and Potters Shield Finals. With a shot difference of +34 Hevingham's Gill Bunn, David Bunn & Pat Williamson qualified for the Potters Cup Final and would face Carol Vinter, Roy Vinter & Bob Catling of East Kent side Chilham who had +29 shots. The Potters Shield Final was between Suffolk's Doreen Cook, Terry Cook & Derek Barley of Carlton who finished on +27 and Norfolk's Joan Costello, Maureen Dease & Ken Dease of Anglian Windows who finished on +26. The unlucky fifth triple who missed out on a final appearance on shots were Lily McNamara, Janet Hinson & Margaret Smith of Cambs who finished with +20 shots. The final of the Potters Cup was played in front of an appreciative audience on the heavy mat 12 which both triples had played a game on earlier. David Bunn proved the difference on the opening two ends as Hevingham carved out a 3 shot lead but Roy Vinter & Bob Catling combined to score two shots for Chilham on the third end. After two loose opening woods on the fourth end by both leads Carol Vinter made her second bowl count drawing just behind the jack but Pat Williamson saved the end for Hevingham with an excellent wood to move 4-2 up. All the players were still struggling on the heavy mat but Gill Bunn's second wood on the fifth end was a peach but it was all in vain as Bob Vinter took out Bunn's bowl to level the game at 4-4. Carol Vinter again bowled to the jack on the sixth end but David Bunn again intervened to put the pressure back on Chilham who were extremely unlucky as a cracking backhand attempt by Bob Catling somehow found a gap in the head and it was 6-4 to Hevingham. After an exchange of great woods by Gill Bunn and Carol Vinter drew applause, Pat Williamson produced an end winning shot to move her triple into a 7-4 lead. Chilham wasted early bowls on the penultimate end and Hevingham took full advantage drawing woods in to the head leaving the Chilham skip in a difficult position that he was unable to change and Hevingham moved 9-4 up. Short woods did not help Chilham's cause on the final end and Pat Williamson finished in style with another great bowl as Hevingham lifted the Potters Cup with a 10-4 win. The Potters Shield Final was won by Doreen Cook, Terry Cook & Derek Barley of Suffolk side Carlton who defeated Joan Costello, Maureen Dease & Ken Dease of Anglian Windows by 11-5. A good opening for Carlton saw them lead 7-2 after five ends and there was no way back for the Norfolk triple. The Most Relaxed Triple award (no-one gets a wooden spoon in this event!) was won by Loddon's Wendy and Roy Wooltorton playing with Foxley's John Roos. Potters Cup Co-Organiser Teresa Goldsmith introduced popular Potters entertainer Mark Brewer and Nathan Moore of Potters Group Sales who conducted the Presentation Ceremony and Winners Photo Call. On Sunday the ever popular Potters Cash Pairs produced an amazing finish with nine pairs gaining maximum points and shots deciding the outcome. Hempnall's Neil Davidson & Sprowston's Peter Smart collected the £100 first prize with +33 shots while Hempnall's Jon Sparham & Wymondham's Chris Mann were second on +32. Just one shot behind in third place were Wymondham's Steve & Debbie Phillips on +31 while Diane & Mike Boswell of Anglian Windows were fourth on +30. The unlucky pairs who won all their games but finished out of the money were Mark Linsdell (Wymondham) & Paul Baker (Hempnall) in fifth place with +26, Halvergate's Donna & David Lamb in sixth place with +16, Sprowston's Margaret & John Poynter were eighth with +15 and Eileen & Eddie Churchley of Whitstable Pearls finished in ninth place with +12. Potter's Mark Brewer presented the cash prizes before the bowlers exited the arena to enjoy the 5 course Sunday evening meal and entertainment. Next years Potters Cup Weekend will take place from Friday 2nd September to Monday 5th September 2011 with a 2 or 3 night stay option.
                                                                                                 Posted 15-9-10

                            England Call-up for Mann, Lamb & Woods
The first news is filtering through on the England Team trials held at the weekend in Northants and its great news for at least three Norfolk bowlers. Wymondham's Chris Mann was in great form and earned his first ever call-up to the England team. Halvergate's David Lamb, who has played in the squad for the last two years, also learned today that he is back for a third year while Bob Carter's Melvin Woods also received the news that he is back in for a second year. Both David Lamb & Chris Mann will be in action in Potter's International Arena at the weekend in the 10th Annual Potter's Cup.
   Posted 1-9-10

Hevingham are Div Two Champions
Hevingham drew 4-4 at Watton Yellow to clinch the Div Two Championship title and earn a return to the top flight. The vital wins were returned by Pat Bunn, Marjorie Hall & David Sharpe who beat Margaret Hunter's triple 13-12 and Ian MacLean, Alan Bunn & Vic Woods who beat Margaret Hunter's triple by 19-11. Anglian Windows needed seven points at home to already relegated Horsford "A" if they were to grab the other promotion spot but a disappointing 6-2 defeat left Sprowston SSC celebrating promotion instead.

Horsford "B" Div Three Champs
Horsford "B" are Div Three champions after a 7-1 away win at Hingham Yellow. Mally Kemp, Peter Fox & Keith Chapman led the way with wins of 20-11 & 15-9 while Roger Frank's triple earned three out of four points. Thurton finish seven points behind Horsford "B" in second place and will join them in Division Two next summer.
                                                                                                                Posted 30-8-10

Bob Carter win Summer Cup to clinch the double
Bob Carter completed a league & cup double triumph after ex England player Steve Bridge ditched the jack on a dramatic last end at Sprowston to break Hevingham hearts. The first half went Bob Carter's way as Jason Woods, David "Minty" Lamb & Melvin Woods put Hevingham's Pat Bunn, Alan Bunn & David Sharpe to the sword crushing them 28-5. On the other mat Jon Sparham, Steve Bridge & George Clarke fought out a 13-13 draw against Ian MacLean, Pat Williamson and Vic "Quiet Man" Woods to leave Carter 3-1 up on points at the interval. The second half saw Hevingham launch a stirring comeback and after twelve ends they led on both mats and had victory in their sights. After their massive first half win Melly Woods' Carter triple lost their form against Vic Woods' triple and were soundly beaten by 18-5. The match though was to be decided on the other mat as George Clarke's triple went into the last end 12-11 down against David Sharpe's triple in which Marjorie Hall had come in as substitute for Pat Bunn. Steve Bridge ditched the jack to earn Bob Carter two shots, a 13-12 shots win and a 5-3 points victory. It is the third time that Bob Carter have won the Norfolk Summer Cup having won it previously in 2005 & 2006.

Bob Carter players Melvin Woods, Jon Sparham, George Clarke & David Lamb

                                                                                                    Posted 25-8-10

                                           Latest News Updated 22-8-10
Hevingham clinched promotion back to the top flight after a 6-2 home win against Anglian Windows. Ian MacLean, Pat Williamson & Vic Woods led the way beating Mike Boswell's triple 19-5 and Alan Williamson's triple 23-6 while David Sharpe's triple weighed in with an 18-10 win. Mike Boswell beat David Sharpe 20-8 after the break to keep Anglian Windows slim promotion chances alive but seven points from their last game is the minimum requirement if they are to leapfrog Sprowston. In their final match six points at already relegated Horsford "A" would have given Sprowston the Div Two title but a 5-3 defeat has left them clinging precariously on to second place. David Woodrow's triple finished a disappointing season for Horsford "A" on a winning note beating Terry Fletcher's triple 17-12 and John Poynter's triple 18-14. Thorpe Marriott "B" suffered their eighth defeat of the campaign losing 6-2 at Diss Green and will join Horsford "A" in Division Three. Horsford "B" will replace their "A" team in Division Two after a 6-2 win at Forncett made promotion a certainty. Mally Kemp, Sue Fox & Keith Chapman pulled off wins of 14-10 & 16-9 to seal victory for Horsford while Lynn Frank, Carol Kemp & Roger Frank finished in style with a 21-4 win. Horsford "B" need just one point in their last match to take the Div Three title. Watton Green won their final match 6-2 at home to bottom club Hingham Green with Roger Braham's triple winning both their games.

                                           Latest News Updated 17-8-10
Wymondham saw their dreams of Summer Cup glory shattered as a last gasp win for Ian MacLean, Pat Williamson & Vic Woods against Sylvia Archer, Brian Saunders & Peter King clinched a place in the final for Hevingham. Home advantage proved vital in the first half as Vic Woods' triple held on to win 12-10 against Pat Saunders, Mark Linsdell & Chris Mann. It looked all too easy as they built up an 8-0 lead after five ends but Mann's triple won six consecutive ends to claw their way back. It was all in vain though as the Hevingham triple held on to win. Marjorie Hall, Alan Bunn & David Sharpe completed a perfect start for Hevingham beating Peter King's triple 13-9 with a seven shot haul over ends three and four the killer blow. Chris Mann's Wymondham triple exploded into action after the break as they hammered Alan Bunn's triple 21-5. After eleven ends the young Norfolk star was already 18-1 up and although the home triple repeatedly swapped playing positions it was to no avail. With Wymondham now holding a good shots advantage a win for Peter King's triple would see them reach the final for the second year running but Vic "Quiet Man" Woods had other ideas. After nine ends the game was tied at 9-9 but Wymondham held four shots with just Vic Woods left to bowl the last wood of the end. His bowl appeared to be wide of the mark but a wick off a side wood resulted in Hevingham taking a single much to Wymondham's exasperation. Their irritation turned to horror on the next end as Vic Woods' triple scored a five to lead 15-9 with the Wymondham triple asking themselves why they had failed to draw a bowl into a wide open head. King's triple demonstrated their sheer tenacity as they dug deep to cut the deficit to just 16-15 with an end to play. It was Hevingham though who clinched victory in this classic semi-final as Pat Williamson ditched the jack while Wymondham failed to take advantage of Sylvia Archer's toucher. In the other semi-final Division Three side Horsford "B" were outplayed at the home of Division One giants Bob Carter. The match was effectively over by half-time as Jon Sparham, Steve Bridge & George Clarke romped to a massive 36-3 win against former Sprowston ace Keith Chapman while Frank Edy, Jason Woods & Melvin Woods strolled to a 24-11 win against ex Carter star Roger Frank. Both Carter triples won by an identical 18-6 margin after the break but by then Carter had already started to dream of a league & cup double. Both Bob Carter & Hevingham have enjoyed good fortune in being drawn at home in all three rounds played. Carter have entertained lower league opposition in the form of Anglian Windows, Diss Green & Horsford "B" with all three teams soundly beaten 8-0. Hevingham have reached the final with a 7-1 win against Kirby Bedon "B", an 8-0 win against Sprowston and a 6-2 win against Wymondham. Bob Carter and Hevingham meet in the final at Sprowston SSC on Monday 23rd August with both clubs hoping to capture the Summer Cup for the third time. In Div One Thorpe Marriott "A" kept their survival hopes alive with a 6-2 win against Kirby Bedon "A". Marriott's survival rests on gaining seven points in their last game at Wymondham that, although possible, is extremely unlikely. Division Two action saw Horsford "A" win 6-2 at home to promotion hopefuls Watton Yellow. Thurton clinched promotion from Div Three with a solid 6-2 away win at Hingham Yellow as Jan McClintock, Pam Grint & Trevor Howard celebrated with wins of 14-13 & 18-8. The previous night they had earned a valuable 4-4 draw at Watton Green where Peter Walker's triple won by 20-4 & 13-12.

                                            Latest News Updated 8-8-10
With Bob Carter having clinched the Summer League title Wymondham & Kirby Bedon "A" are left to fight it out for the runners-up spot.Both sides though had to settle for a 4-4 draw against relegation threatened sides which leaves Kirby still three points ahead of Wymondham with one match each to play. Wymondham visited Thorpe Marriott "A" and had a poor first half losing on both mats. Brian Saunders, Steve Phillips & Chris "The Blazerman" Blazer lost 13-10 to Janet Pinchin, Sheila Redwood & Ted Redwood while Pat Saunders, Shirley Foster & Debbie Phillips lost 11-10 to Tony Frost, Trevor Pinchin & Kath Frost. They avoided a complete disaster with a good second half with Chris Mann's triple winning 19-8 and Debbie Phillips' triple winning 14-13 despite a strong comeback by Ted Redwood's triple. Kirby Bedon "A" went to First Bus where the first half was drawn as Kirby's Leonora Chilman, Phil Watson & John Aggas won 17-8 and the First Bus tripleof Colin Coman, Tony Gray & Bob Oatway won 12-11 with the last bowl of the game by First Bus skip Bob Oatway grabbing a win against Selwyn Goldsmith's triple. In the second half Kirby's Alistair Hunter, Phil Watson & John Aggas won 17-16 as they survived a late surge by the home team. Julia Cummins, Maurice Kemp & Lesley Crowe earned the draw for First Bus with an 18-9 win.

                                   Latest News Updated 2-8-10
Cambridgeshire's Doddington are the new National Club Champions after beating Templecombe of Somerset in the final at Rugby Thornfield. The only success Templecombe had was in the pairs as Doddington clinched the trophy previously held by Kirby Bedon. Bob Carter were close to making the final but just missed out while First Bus, despite playing well, did not make it through either.

         Short Mat Players Tour Axed
Craig Burgess announced yesterday that the plug has been pulled on the proposed Short Mat Players Tour which was set to launch with the Exeter South West Masters in five weeks time. Reasons given are the low entry which would not cover costs and the unfortunate withdrawal of Simon Pridham from the project for personal reasons. The announcement will disappoint those in short mat bowls who hoped that this brave attempt to raise the profile of short mat bowls would succeed. The first Norfolk bowler to comment was Wymondham & Norfolk star Chris Mann who said he was "gutted" by the news as he was really looking forward to it.
                                                                                 POSTED 2-8-10


                                      Craig Burgess and Chris Mann
   Latest News Updated 29-07-10
Summer League - Bob Carter Champions
Bob Carter are the new Summer League champions after they clinched the title with an 8-0 home win against Kirby Bedon "B". Jon Sparham, Steve Bridge & George Clarke were in brilliant form winning their games by 24-4 & 31-9 while Frank Edy, Jason Woods & Melvin Woods won their games by 17-8 & 20-12. Bob Carter last won the Summer League back in 1998 but the comeback of former England player Steve Bridge and the addition of Hempnall star Jon Sparham to their line-up has significantly strengthened their side. The form of veteran George Clarke has also been a major factor in their Summer League title triumph, the fourth time they have won it. Kirby Bedon "B" will be disappointed to have lost the final match of their season but will be happy that they have done enough to secure their Div One status after promotion last season. Hevingham moved top of Div Two with an 8-0 home win against relegation threatened Thorpe Marriott "B" despite the absence of top skip Vic Woods. Ian MacLean, Marjorie Hall & Pat Williamson beat Richard Kightley's triple 28-6 and Malcolm Roe's triple 20-10 while David Sharpe's triple backed them up with wins of 15-13 & 15-11. Marriott "B" also slumped to an 8-0 home defeat against Anglian Windows and saw an ominous gap open up between the bottom two teams and the rest. Watton Yellow did themselves a big favour winning 6-2 at home to Anglian Windows with June Todd, Bryan Dibble & Bill Davies winning both their games. Div Three leaders Thurton are flying high after an 8-0 home win against Watton Green. Trevor Howard's triple enjoyed two big wins of 29-10 & 25-6 while Peter Walker's triple won by 26-8 & 19-9. Watton Green bounced back from this defeat with two good wins to keep their promotion hopes alive. They won 8-0 at home to Forncett with Roger Braham's triple winning 24-7 & 15-6 and then won 6-2 at Hingham Yellow where Alan Baldry's triple won 12-10 & 17-14.
Summer Cup
Hevingham moved easily into the semi-finals of the Summer Cup with an 8-0 home win against Sprowston as Vic Woods and David Sharpe skipped their triples to two wins apiece.

Summer League - Framingham Earl are relegated
As the season reaches its climax Framingham Earl became the first Div One side to be relegated as their poor run of results culminated in a 7-1 defeat at Wymondham. A tight first half saw visiting triple Glenda Kidd, T Shelley & Ray Lumley hold Mary Fisher, Mark Linsdell & Chris Mann to a 13-13 draw but Peter King's triple beat Karl Bunn 12-10 to give the home side a 3-1 points lead at the break. In the second half Bunn's triple again fought hard but slipped to a 14-12 defeat against Chris Mann. The twelfth end summed up Framingham Earl's season as an attacking shot by Karl Bunn only succeeded in taking all his own bowls out of the head handing Mann's triple five shots. The other second half game produced a big 21-2 win for Wymondham's Sylvia Archer, Shirley Foster & Peter King as Framingham Earl found themselves heading back to Div Two after just one season in the top flight. Two days earlier Framingham Earl went down 6-2 at Kirby Bedon but they were able to capitalize on Kirby taking to the mats with a player short in the first half to at least take a couple of points. With Teresa Goldsmith taken ill just 25 minutes before the start Leonora Chilman & Selwyn Goldsmith played without a number two and were beaten 17-12 by Karl Bunn's triple. Kirby's Carol Aggas, John Aggas & Phil Watson won 15-11 though to keep the match level at halftime. After the break Kirby were back to full strength as Alistair Hunter arrived posthaste to fill the gap in Selwyn Goldsmith's triple and normal service was resumed as they beat Colin Emms' triple 19-7 while Phil Watson's triple won 16-8. The remaining relegation spot looks set to be filled by either First Bus or Thorpe Marriott "A" and First Bus traveled to Kirby Bedon "A" hoping to put clear blue water between themselves and Marriott "A". It was not to be though as Kirby "A" proved too strong on the night, Leonora Chilman, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith only lost three ends as they beat John Cummins, Lesley Crowe & Maurice Kemp by 22-5 while Carol Aggas, John Aggas & Phil Watson won 18-9 against Bob Oatway's triple. The second half saw Selwyn Goldsmith's triple, with Alistair Hunter subbing for Leonora Chilman, win by 21-8 and Phil Watson's triple win 15-11 as Kirby completed an 8-0 maximum home win. The result leaves First Bus still searching for points in their remaining match to aid their quest for survival.


                                 Latest News Updated 25-07-10
Summer Cup
Just one shot has earned Div 3 side Horsford "B" a place in the semi-finals after they drew 4-4 at fellow Div 3 side Hingham Green but won 52-51 on shots. A good first half for the home side saw K Thomas' triple beat K Chapman 21-11 and M White beat R Frank 12-10. All they needed was a point to see them through to the semi-finals but Horsford hit back with Roger Frank winning 14-9 and Keith Chapman winning 17-9 to tie the match 4-4 on points but give Horsford B a 52-51 win on shots. Horsford face a trip to Bob Carter in the semi-finals where they face a massive task against the form team of the season while Hevingham entertain Wymondham in the other semi-final.
Summer League
Bob Carter won 6-2 at home to Wymondham and are close to clinching the Div One title. Jon Sparham, Steve Bridge & George Clarke swept Brian Saunders, Mark Linsdell & Chris Mann aside by 31-10 while Melvin Woods won 15-13 against Steve Phillips. Clarke's triple won 22-14 against Steve Phillips after the break while Peter King, Mark Linsdell & Chris Mann earned Wymondham's only win beating Melvin Woods 15-10. Kirby Bedon A won 6-2 at home to Framingham Earl but will be annoyed they failed to take maximum points after Teresa Goldsmith was taken ill less than half an hour before the start of the match. This left Leonora Chilman & Selwyn Goldsmith bowling with a player short against Peter Adcock, Debbie Bunn & Karl Bunn and despite holding on at 7-7 after 8 ends they slipped to a 17-12 defeat. Carol Aggas, John Aggas & Phil Watson won their games by 15-11 & 16-8 and with Alistair Hunter arriving to join Chilman & Goldsmith in the second half they beat Colin Emms 19-7. First Bus drew for the third time this season at home to Kirby Bedon "B". Bob Pattison, Lesley Crowe & Maurice Kemp of First Bus beat Joe Brown 14-7 in the first half and with John Cummins subbing for Pattison after the break they beat Gerald Chilvers 17-13. Chilvers & Brown both won for Kirby "B" to earn the draw. Sprowston top Div Two on shots alone after losing 6-2 at Hevingham where Ian MacLean, Pat Williamson & Vic Woods won twice by 17-11 and 22-12. Second placed Diss Green inflicted the first defeat of the season on Hevingham. Terry Newby's triple won 20-16 while Graham Mobbs' triple won 14-11 and drew 11-11 for a 5-3 home win. Vic Woods' won his first game 17-9 for Hevingham and drew his second to keep them well positioned in the promotion race. Horsford B drew 4-4 at Thurton and remain the only unbeaten side in Div Three due to wins of 14-13 & 14-12 for Lynn Frank, Carol Kemp & Roger Frank. Hingham Yellow lost ground on the top two after a painful 7-1 defeat at Watton Green where D Braham's home triple won 16-9 & 17-14 and D Oliver weighed in with a 27-5 win. Forncett finally won a game at the eighth attempt after four defeats and three draws. They beat Hingham Green 6-2 with P Lock winning 15-8 and 22-12 and T Ottewell winning 18-4. M Frost won 13-10 to earn Hingham Green their only win of the night.


                                   Latest News Updated 20-07-10
Summer Cup
Wymondham gained revenge for their defeat at the hands of Kirby Bedon "A" in last seasons final as they made home advantage count in a 8-0 quarter-final whitewash. The writing was on the wall by half time as Wymondham won both opening games. A huge shot advantage was built up as Peter King, Mark Linsdell & Chris Mann beat Leonora Chilman, John Aggas & Phil Watson 25-5. With the visiting lead player struggling with the long jack set by Chris Mann neither Aggas or Watson could stem the tide in a match where they trailed by 17-0 after eight ends. On mat two Sylvia Archer, Shirley Foster & Steve Phillips put Carol Aggas, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith under pressure from the start drawing consistently to the jack and led 8-2 after six ends. The visiting triple narrowed the gap to just one shot by the ninth end but could not turn the match round losing 15-13. In the second half Wymondham just had to keep the games tight and they did just that. Former Scotland international Alistair Hunter substituted for Leonora Chilman to lead for John Aggas & Phil Watson and this certainly made a difference to their performance as they lost by just 11-10 to Steve Phillips' triple. Chris Mann's triple found themselves with a harder game on their hands in the second half but still beat Selwyn Goldsmith's triple by 13-12.
Summer League
In the Summer League championship race Bob Carter opened up a 26 point lead after a 6-2 away win against Kirby Bedon "B". Steve Bridge, David Lamb & Melvin Woods won by 15-10 & 15-13 while Jason Woods, Nigel Willard & George Clarke won their second game by 12-8 after losing their opening game 16-13 to Carol Johnson, Peter Johnson & Joe Brown. Thorpe Marriott "A" are finding points hard to come by in the top flight and a 6-2 defeat at Kirby Bedon "B" does little to ease their relegation fears. Gerald Chilver's triple picked up maximum points for Kirby winning by 14-10 against Tony Turner and 11-10 against Will Hoggan. There is little to choose between the other two sides caught up in the relegation dogfight as was proved with a 4-4 draw when Framingham Earl visited First Bus. Karl Bunn's Framingham triple won their games by 15-11 & 19-17 for the visitors but wins for Maurice Kemp & Tony Gray earned a draw for First Bus. Wymondham won 6-2 at Framingham Earl with Chris Mann's triple winning by 18-7 & 23-9 to move into third place. In a top of the table clash in Div Two Sprowston beat Anglian Windows 7-1 but it was closer than the score suggests. Terry Fletcher's Sprowston triple won by one shot against Alan Williamson's triple and after the interval beat Mike Boswell 17-14. John Poynter's Sprowston triple drew 11-11 with Mike Boswell while Poynter's triple scored the only sizable win of the night beating Williamson 19-10. Diss Green's title hopes took a knock at Horsford "A" where they were beaten 6-2 with Chris Woodhouse winning his games by 20-3 & 21-8. Diss fared better at Thorpe Marriott "B" where they drew 4-4 to move second but the rest have games in hand on them. Watton Yellow entertained struggling Marriott "B" hopeful of putting pressure on the leaders but instead suffered a shock 6-2 defeat. Malcolm Roe's triple scored a 14-6 win and an 11-11 draw while Richard Kightley's triple won 17-15 and drew their other game 10-10. Div Three leaders Thurton slipped to a 6-2 home defeat against Hingham Yellow despite a big 25-4 win for county regular Jenny Walker. Tony Fennell, Eric Frary & Jane Frary starred for the visitors winning by 15-13 & 16-10 as they move into second place. Hingham Green went down 8-0 at Horsford "B" where Keith Chapman's triple won 22-8 & 18-14 and Roger Frank's triple won 17-10 & 23-9.

Latest News Updated 16-07-10
Summer Cup
Another home draw for Bob Carter in the Summer Cup saw them entertain Division Two side Diss Green in the quarter-finals. The visitors would not have traveled to Drayton with much optimism so the 8-0 home win for Carter will have come as little surprise all round. In the first half Carter's Frank Edy, Steve Bridge & Melvin Woods romped to a 28-4 win against the Bill Francis triple while Jason Woods, Nigel Willard & George Clarke beat T Newby's triple 27-5. Melvin Woods' triple continued the onslaught after the break beating Newby's triple 28-3 but Colin Smith, Trish Taylor & Bill Francis put up a hard fight before losing by just 15-12 to Clarke's triple.
                                      ESMBA Summer Club Championships
The eight teams have been confirmed for Finals Day at Thornfield I.B.C in Rugby and again include two Norfolk sides. Summer League Div One sides Bob Carter & First Bus have both qualified making up for the disappointment of missing out last year when fellow Norfolk side Kirby Bedon lifted the trophy. Bob Carter have been in brilliant form this summer and must start as firm favourites to keep the trophy in Norfolk. Last year's favourites Chanctonbury Foxes of West Sussex have again reached the final and will hope to do better than last year when they proved to be a disappointment. Finals Day will be on Sunday 1st August with a start time of 9.30am. The full line-up is Bob Carter (Norfolk), First Bus (Norfolk), Chanctonbury Foxes (West Sussex), Holly Lane (West Mids), Templecombe (Somerset), Doddington (Cambs), Middlezoy (Somerset) & Burham (Kent). Wymondham missed out on reaching Finals Day only on shot average.
                                                                                       Posted 14-7-10

                                   Latest News Updated 11-07-10
Millennium Fours
Brian Saunders, Steve Phillips, Debbie Phillips & Chris "Blazerman" Mann were Norfolk's only entry to this annual ESMBA event in Northants but represented the county well finishing third in a strong field. After opening with a 14-1 win against Steve Bailey's West Mids rink the Wymondham block slipped to what turned out to be their only defeat of the day when they went down 10-5 to Keith Alders West Mids rink. In their third game they claimed the scalp of Oxfordshire and England star Trevor Brown when they won 8-6 after making a superb start leading 6-0 before conceding a six on the penultimate end. In their next two games they recorded wins of 5-3 & 6-3 before beating Herbie Bowden's block 10-7 in their last game.

Summer League
Div One action saw Kirby Bedon "B" beat Framingham Earl 6-2 with Joe Brown's triple winning by 12-7 & 21-6 while Bernie Cudden's triple weighed in with a 23-5 win. Karl Bunn earned the visitors only points. Thorpe Marriott "A" lost 6-2 at First Bus where Bob Oatway won 19-12 against Kath Frost, Maurice Kemp beat Kath Frost 22-9 and Tony Gray won 15-12 against Tony Turner. In Div Two Hevingham beat Diss Green 6-2 with Vic Woods winning by 22-5 & 15-5. Diss Green won 6-2 at home to promotion chasing Sprowston with Bill Francis winning by 16-14 & 18-11. Horsford "A" were well beaten at Sprowston going down 8-0 as John Poynter's triple won by 21-13 & 27-5. Anglian Windows beat Watton Yellow 6-2 with Alan Williamson's triple leading the way winning by 18-8 & 15-13 while Mike Boswell recorded a 29-2 win. Forncett continue to struggle in Div Three, this time losing 6-2 at Hingham Yellow where K Buller's triple won two tight games by 14-13 & 14-12.

ENGLAND APPOINT NEW TEAM MANAGER
Keith Smith of Cheshire has been revealed as the new England Team Manager to replace Barry Hedges. He was previously Assistant-Manager during Hedge's reign and also serves as Cheshire County Team Manager. He was always considered firm favourite for the job despite facing competition for the post from Essex & England star Craig Burgess.
                                                                                        Posted 11-07-10

               ESMBA AGM NEWS
            40% Increase in subscription passed by narrow majority

The proposal by the ESMBA Management Committee to raise the annual subscription for players by 40% was passed by a slender margin at the Annual General Meeting in Northants on Saturday. The majority of County Delegates voted against the proposal but the vote was carried as all but two of the ESMBA Officers backed the increase that will take effect from the 2011-2012 season. With the current Norfolk membership standing at 1,468 it costs the county £3,670 to register its players, this will rise to £5,138 when the new fee kicks in. At last weeks Norfolk AGM the Norfolk Chairman Selwyn Goldsmith spoke against the planned increase in his Chairman's Report.


   Latest News Updated 04-07-10
Summer Cup
Hevingham made home advantage count as they beat Kirby Bedon "B" 7-1. In the first half Hevingham picked up all four points as Ian MacLean, Pat Williamson & Vic Woods won 15-6 and Pat Bunn, Marjorie Hall & David Sharpe won 16-11. Despite a tight second half Hevingham secured the win as Sharpe's triple won 13-12 against Joe Brown's triple and Vic Woods' triple were held to a 15-15 draw by Chris East, Gerald Chilvers & Bernie Cudden.

Summer League
Bob Carter continue to show impressive home form in Div One with First Bus their latest victims. Frank Edy, Nigel Willard & George Clarke romped home to wins of 22-8 & 26-7 while Melvin Woods' triple won 18-9 & 24-7. Bob Carter suffered their first defeat of the season at Wymondham where Pat Saunders, Mark Linsdell & Chris Mann won by 19-10 & 20-5 and Steve Phillips' triple contributed an 11-9 win as Wymondham kept themselves firmly in the race for the runners-up spot behind Carter. A close match at Thorpe Marriott "A" saw the home side beat Framingham Earl 5-3 with Tony Frost, Ted Redwood & Kath Frost's 16-11 win against Colin Emms the biggest victory of the night. In Div Two the two bottom clubs met in a relegation battle with Horsford "A" coming out on top winning 6-2 at Thorpe Marriott "B". Richard Dix, Jim Bird & Chris Woodhouse won 30-2 and 11-10 as the visitors won their first league match of the season so far. Horsford fared less well at Diss where they were beaten 6-2 as Colin Smith, Trish Taylor & Alan Rush won their games by 18-6 & 17-8. Anglian Windows kept in the hunt for promotion with a 6-2 home win against Sprowston with Alan Williamson's triple winning both their games. Hevingham visited Anglian Windows and drew 4-4 with David Sharpe and Vic Woods winning one game each for the visitors. In Div Three Hingham Green were held to a 4-4 draw at home by Forncett.

        Latest News Updated 02-07-10

Summer Cup
In a thrilling cup tie Sprowston beat Framingham Earl by just one shot to reach the second round. Terry Fletcher's triple beat Colin Emms 14-13 and John Poynter's triple beat Mervyn Blaza by 13-8 to give Sprowston a 4-0 points lead. After the break the visitors hit back as Blaza beat Fletcher 15-11 and Emms beat Poynter 9-8 to level the match on points but it was not enough as Sprowston won 46-45 on shots.

Summer League
Division Two leaders Watton Yellow were held to a 4-4 draw at Diss where home skip Bill Francis won by 20-3 & 12-10. The other Diss skip, Graham Mobbs, fared less well losing by 17-14 & 10-9. Sprowston moved second after an 8-0 win at Thorpe Marriott "B" where Peter Smart won by 25-6 & 19-6 and Terry Fletcher won by 15-4 & 14-8. Division Three leaders Thurton had their unbeaten league run ended at Horsford "B" where they lost 6-2. Ex Sprowston star Keith Chapman won by 20-7 & 14-11 and Roger Frank added a 13-12 win for Horsford. Trevor Howard's triple scored a 15- 8 consolation win for Thurton to earn their two points.

   Roy Grapes

The N.C.S.M.B.A is saddened to announce the death of Roy Grapes, the Vice-President of the Norfolk Short Mat Bowls Association. He died after suffering a heart attack at around mid-night on Sunday 27-6-10 just hours after being re-elected at the N.C.S.M.B.A Annual General Meeting. Roy was an immense figure in the sport rising to the position of President of the English Short Mat Bowls Association. He was a pivotal figure in the formation of both Felthorpe & Thorpe Marriott clubs as well as the Bure League. Roy was appointed Norfolk County Team Manager in 2002 and served in that position until 2006. As a player he was a member of the England Squad in the 1995-96 season and was the skip of the Mixed Rink that won the Norfolk County Mixed Fours in 2002/03 as well as being a member of the Norfolk County Squad for many years. He was also a member of the Norfolk Over 60's Squad and was a great support behind the scenes. Roy was always willing to take on any positions in the sport when he was needed and served as Bure League Competitions Secretary. He was a member of Woodbastwick Bowls Club and previously played for Taverham, Thorpe Marriott & Hevingham. The Norfolk Association wish to extend their great sympathy to Avril and all the family.
Rest in Peace Roy.

      Latest News Updated 23-06-10

Summer Cup
Bob Carter are through to the second round after an 8-0 home win against Anglian Windows. There was never a real chance of an upset in this match as Steve Bridge, David Lamb & Melvin Woods won by 17-9 & 21-5 while George Clarke's triple won by 19-6 & 18-8. A tremendous tie at Watton Green saw Div Three visitors Hingham Green pull off a one shot victory against their Div Two opponents. Hingham won both opening games to pile the pressure on Watton. D Frost, J Potton & K Thomas beat Roger Braham's triple 17-8 and R Lister, M White & M Frost beat D Oliver's triple by 15-14. The home side hit back after the break with D Braham, A Baldry & Roger Braham winning 12-10 and J Capell, B Draper & D Oliver winning 16-9 to force a 4-4 draw on points but the total shots were in favour of Hingham Green by the slender margin of 51-50. Last year's beaten finalists Wymondham found it all too easy at home to Hingham Yellow winning 8-0. Chris Mann's triple won by 21-6 & 22-8 while Steve Phillips won 22-7 and Debbie Phillips won 29-5.

Summer League
Bob Carter made it six wins in a row in Div One with an 8-0 win at First Bus. All four games were quite close but the home team failed to collect a point as Melvin Woods' triple won 15-10 & 15-11 while George Clarke's triple won 16-13 & 14-13. Defending champions Kirby Bedon "A" entertained Wymondham in a keenly anticipated match which Kirby won by 7-1. Kirby's Carol Aggas, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith lost three of the first four ends against Brian Saunders, Peter King & Chris Mann and trailed 6-5 after seven ends. After that it was one way traffic as the Kirby triple won seven of the remaining eight ends to win 22-8 and inflict a rare heavy defeat on Mann. On mat one Wymondham's Sylvia Archer, Shirley Foster & Debbie Phillips stormed to a 7-0 lead after two ends against Leonora Chilman, John Aggas & Phil Watson. The Kirby triple fought back but trailed 12-9 with one end to go. The Wymondham triple looked to be on their way to a win until Phil Watson produced a wonderful backhand shot with the last wood of the game to take out a Wymondham bowl and score three shots to level the game at 12-12. After the break Debbie Phillips' triple continued to play some great bowls with Sylvia Archer in superb form at lead against Goldsmith's triple. With two ends to play the Wymondham triple led 12-11 but three shots on the penultimate end and a single shot on the last end earned the Kirby triple a 15-12 win. The remaining game saw Pat Saunders brought in at lead and Steve Phillips substituting at two with Chris Mann still at skip against Phil Watson's triple. Watson's triple led by just 14-13 with one end remaining and again Phil Watson pulled off a great shot on the final end to seal a 16-13 win. In Div Two Hevingham moved into second place and have a game in hand over leaders Watton Yellow. Their top triple at Horsford "A" were Ian MacLean, Alan Bunn & Vic Woods who won 16-6 & 12-9 as they collected a 6-2 away win. In the return match Hevingham won 8-0 with Pat Williamson's triple winning 13-8, Ian MacLean's triple winning 18-11 and David Sharpe scoring wins of 16-9 & 18-15. Diss Green earned a 4-4 draw at Sprowston with Bill Francis & T Newby winning a game each for the visitors while Linda Chadwick, Les Chadwick & John Poynter won both their games for Sprowston. Diss also visited Anglian Windows where they slipped to a 5-3 defeat with Mike Boswell starring for Windows with wins of 22-12 & 18-6. Thurton moved 18 points clear in Div Three and have now won all their four games dropping just two points so far. Forncett could not handle the visitors as Peter Walker's triple won 18-10 & 18-9 and Trevor Howard's triple won 21-4 & 19-9 as Thurton collected an 8-0 win. They also won 8-0 at home to Hingham Green scoring a total of 71 shots against 38. Horsford "B" beat Watton Green 8-0 but another incomplete scorecard submitted by Horsford "B" makes it impossible to report the scores for the second week running.

                             Latest News Updated 15-06-10

National Club Championships
Another preliminary heat held at Felixstowe saw Cambridgeshire emerge winners on 23 points with Wymondham second on 15 points. Essex side Stoneyhills 2 finished one point behind on 14 while Sprowston had a bad day scoring just 4 points. The day was another disaster for the ESMBA with players bitterly complaining of no format, no score-sheets and a complete lack of organisation. The inability of the ESMBA to get their act together continues to undermine their credibility and threatens to destroy a competition launched just last year which Norfolk clubs have supported more than any other county.

Summer Cup
Division 3 side Thurton visited Division 2 side Diss Green but found the gulf between them too big as they went down 8-0. Terry Newby's triple won their games by 20-8 & 18-10 while Bill Francis skipped his triple to wins of 20-9 & 16-9.

Summer League
Wymondham's high hopes of Div One glory have taken two hard knocks. Visitors Kirby Bedon "B" pulled off a creditable 4-4 draw at Wymondham while outscoring the home team 55-50 on shots. Shirley Brown, Barry Herman & Joe Brown beat Debbie Phillips' triple 18-11 while Peter Johnson, Chris East & Gerald Chilvers beat the same triple 17-11. Wymondham then found themselves on the wrong end of a 6-2 defeat at First Bus where Maurice Kemp's triple won their games by 17-7 & 13-10. Remarkably the second half saw an amazing result as Wymondham's Brian Saunders, Steve Phillips & Chris Mann beat Bob Oatway's triple 33-1 to earn two consolation points for the visitors. In Div Two a strong Hevingham side won 6-2 at home to Watton Yellow with Vic Woods' triple winning 18-5 & 20-3. Watton Yellow fared better at home to Horsford "A" winning 6-2 as June Todd, Joan Bebee & Margaret Hunter won 18-9 & 16-6. Div Three action saw Thurton showing promotion form at Hingham Green where they won 6-2. Trevor Howard was the top Thurton skip winning by 15-10 & 18-8. Horsford "B" drew 4-4 at home to Forncett but with a half filled in scorecard being returned by the home side it is not possible to report the details!

Latest News Updated 08-06-10
National Club Championships
The preliminary heat at Manea in Cambs saw Bob Carter & First Bus qualify for the finals day at the expense of London side Cucao and Essex team Stoneyhills 1. Defending champions Kirby Bedon had withdrawn from the competition leaving Carter & First Bus carrying Norfolk hopes and they did not disappoint. Carter finished in first place with 21 points and First Bus grabbed the second qualifying place with 16 points. In the clash between the Norfolk sides Carter emerged winners by 5-4 as they won two games apiece but Carter earned the bonus point for shots.

   Latest News Updated 07-06-10
Summer Cup
Summer Cup holdersKirby Bedon "A" are safely through to the second round after a 7-1 win away to fellow Div One side Thorpe Marriott "A". In the first half Kirby Bedon's Carol Aggas, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith withstood a late rally by Tony Frost, Will Hoggan & Kath Frost to win 13-8. A tight game on mat two saw Kirby's Leonora Chilman, John Aggas & Phil Watson draw 12-12 with Marriott's Sheila Redwood, Ted Redwood & Tony Turner. Watson's triple were involved in another close game after the break but a single on the final end helped them to an 11-9 win against Kath Frost's triple to clinch victory for Kirby "A". On the other mat Selwyn Goldsmith's triple beat Tony Turner's triple 18-9.

Summer League
A stunning 8-0 away win for Bob Carter at title holders Kirby Bedon "A" makes them firm favourites for the title after just four games. Jason Woods, Nigel Willard & George Clarke were in superb form for the visitors and in the first half dominated the game against Leonora Chilman, John Aggas & Phil Watson and winning by 17-8. On mat one a great start by Steve Bridge, David Lamb & Melly Woods saw them lead Carol Aggas, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith by 7-1 after four ends. The Kirby triple fought back and the game was level at 10-10 on the eleventh end and the match was decided on the last end with Woods' triple winning 13-11. The second half followed the same pattern with Melly Woods' triple beating Phil Watson's triple by 16-4 while the game between Goldsmith's triple and Clarke's triple was close throughout. Again the last end decided it with Clarke's triple winning 11-9. At Thorpe Marriott "A" George Clarke's triple were again in top form winning their games by 23-9 & 24-7 while Nigel Willard's triple weighed in with wins of 14-12 & 16-8 to leave Marriott "A" without a win after five games. First Bus earned their first win of the season winning 5-3 at Framingham Earl. Bob Pattison, Lesley Crowe & Maurice Kemp opened with a 19-13 win against Karl Bunn's triple before drawing 13-13 with Ray Lumley. Colin Coman, Tony Gray & Bob Oatway's 14-13 win against Lumley sealed the win that moved them off the foot of the table. In Div Two Anglian Windows took maximum points at home to Thorpe Marriott "B". Ken Dease, Maureen Dease & Alan Williamson started strongly beating Malcolm Roe's triple 21-10 and Tony Johnson, Ann Johnson & Mike Boswell was equally impressive beating Richard Kightley 18-8. Boswell's triple were put under more pressure after the break before beating Roe's triple 13-12. Williamson's triple again played well winning 15-8. Three nights later Thorpe Marriott "B" scored their first win after three defeats when they achieved a 6-2 victory at Horsford "A". Margaret McPherson, Sylvia Roe & Malcolm Roe won their games by 13-12 & 17-10 and Dorothy Muttitt, Trevor Hart & Richard Kightley won 18-11 in their first game. David Woodrow's triple scored Horsford's only win beating Kightley's triple 12-10 after the interval.
                                Latest News Updated 28-05-10
Summer Cup
Div One side First Bus crashed out of the Summer Cup at the hands of Div 3 side Thurton as the preliminary round produced the first giant killing of the season. Ken McClintock, Jan McClintock & John Ford got Thurton off to a good start beating Maurice Kemp's triple 13-10 but Bob Oatway kept First Bus in the game with a 17-13 win. After the break Tony Gray skipped his First Bus triple to a 16-13 win but Trevor Howard, Pam Grint & Kerry Greenacre put Thurton through on shots as they beat Kemp's triple 22-11. Horsford "B" also progressed safely through after a 6-2 home win against Forncett. Mally Kemp, Sue Fox & Keith Chapman were Horsford's heroes winning their games by 14-10 & 18-15 while Mark "The Marvel" Tuttle added a 22-6 win in his second game.
Summer League
Div One action saw Thorpe Marriott "A" go down 8-0 at Kirby Bedon "A" where Carol Aggas, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith won by 21-10 & 23-6 while Leonora Chilman, John Aggas & Phil Watson won by 16-10 & 20-5. Two days later an unchanged Kirby Bedon "A" team also inflicted a 7-1 home defeat on Framingham Earl in a high scoring match. Selwyn Goldsmith's triple beat Colin Emms' triple 20-5 and then beat Mervyn Blaza's triple 23-8. The Chilman-Watson-Aggas triple stormed to a 29-9 win against Peter Adcock's triple after drawing their opening game 12-12 with Blaza. An understrength Wymondham side still proved too strong for visitors First Bus. Pat Saunders, Mark Linsdell & Chris Mann won 17-9 & 15-4 while Sylvia Archer, Peter King & Brian Saunders won by 19-10 & 10-9. First Bus also went down 6-2 at Kirby Bedon "B" where Chris East, Gerald Chilvers & Bernie Cudden won by 13-12 & 16-7 while Shirley Brown, Jimmy Dye & Joe Brown added a 25-8 win. Kirby Bedon "B" also pulled off a 6-2 win at Thorpe Marriott "A" where Carol Johnson, Gerald Chilvers & Bernie Cudden won by 13-10 & 12-11.
Watton Yellow made it three wins in a row in Div Two as they won 5-3 at Thorpe Marriott "B". Dianne Quadling, David Quadling & Bill Davies beat Malcolm Roe's triple 13-11 and drew 12-12 with Richard Perkins while Margaret Hunter's triple beat Roe 17-8. A strong looking Hevingham team drew 4-4 at Sprowston with Ian McLean, Pat Williamson & Vic "Quiet Man" Woods winning 18-15 & 12-11. Sprowston's points came courtesy of a 24-11 win for Colin Thornton, L Chadwick & Terry Fletcher who beat David Sharpe 24-11 and Margaret Poynter, L Chadwick & Joan Costello who beat Marjorie Hall 14-13.
Div Three results included a 6-2 local derby win for Hingham Yellow against Hingham Green. The biggest win of the night was a 16-9 result for Tony Fennel, Eric Frary & Jane Frary against R Lister's triple. Forncett drew 4-4 at home to Watton Green with Mary Boulter, Merv Boulter & Tony Ottewell beating Don Paffey's triple 26-7 and with Keith Humphreys subbing for Ottewell they beat Alan Baldry's triple 16-9. Thurton brushed aside Forncett 8-0 with Margaret Howlett winning 19-11, Margaret Newcome winning 28-4, John Ford winning 19-10 & Jenny Walker winning 12-9. It is quite unusual to see a side substituting both winning skips for the second half of a game and still winning all four games!

Latest News Updated 26-05-10

Summer League
Bob Carter maintained their strong start to the Summer League Div One season with a 6-2 away win at Framingham Earl. George Clarke, with Nigel Willard at lead and Steve Bridge at two, beat former Langley star Mervyn Blaza 18-9 and after the break beat Colin Emms 13-10 with Jon Sparham subbing for Bridge at lead. Framingham Earl also suffered a 5-3 home defeat against Kirby Bedon "B" where Shirley Brown, Barry Herman & Joe Brown beat Blaza 15-12 and drew 14-14 with Karl Bunn's triple. Thorpe Marriott "A" were held to a 4-4 home draw at home to First Bus where Ralph Wilson, Colin Coman & Maurice Kemp starred for the visitors with a 24-8 win against Kath Frost and a 20-16 win against Trevor Pinchin. In Div Two Watton Yellow look in good form. They won 8-0 at home to Diss Green with Bryan Dibble's triple winning 18-7 & 17-14 while the Bebee-Quadling-Quadling triple won 17-9 & 10-8. Watton Yellow also claimed the notable scalp of Sprowston when the side relegated from Div One last summer lost 6-2 at Watton. June Todd, Bryan Dibble & Bill Davies did the damage beating John Poynter 19-12 and Peter Smart's triple 16-15. Sprowston fared better the next night winning 6-2 at home to Thorpe Marriott "B". Colin Thornton, David Fuller & Terry Fletcher were Sprowston's stars beating Malcolm Roe 15-11 and Richard Kightley 16-10. Anglian Windows look on paper one of the title favourites in this division but went down 8-0 at Diss Green. Colin Smith, Trish Taylor & Terry Newby won 17-10 against Mike Boswell's triple and 19-10 against David Walker while Keith Buck, Jean Skeat & Graham Mobbs beat David Walker 19-8 and Mike Boswell 12-6. Div Three saw a local derby in which Hingham Green beat Hingham Yellow 6-2. Keith Thomas skipped his triple to wins of 19-14 & 11-10 while Neville Thorpe was the only Hingham Yellow skip to win beating Mike White 24-9.

Latest News Updated 19-5-10
Summer League & Cup
Summer Cup action saw holders Kirby Bedon "A" win at Horsford "A" in a classic cup tie decided by the final bowl. Kirby looked to be on their way to winning both opening games until Horsford's Richard Dix, Jim Bird & Chris Woodhouse scored seven shots on the last three ends to win 13-12 but Carol Aggas, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith gave the visitors a nine shot interval lead with a 17-7 win. Horsford started strongly after the break and with nine ends played on both mats David Woodrow's triple led John Aggas's triple 12-3 and Chris Woodhouse led Goldsmith 7-6. Despite losing his game John Aggas reduced the margin of his triples defeat to just 15-10 keeping the visitors in front on shots but for Kirby to avoid a cup exit Goldsmith's triple had to win. Trailing 12-11 at the start of the last end the Kirby triple found themselves in deep trouble after two great woods from Horsford's Richard Dix. An attacking bowl from Teresa Goldsmith opened up a tight head but Horsford still held as the skips prepared to plsy their last woods. The Kirby skips first bowl forced the jack over to the left of the jack line leaving Kirby holding one shot on an end where two shots were needed or Horsford were through. Horsford skip Woodhouse failed to reach the head with his last bowl leaving the Kirby skips last wood destined to decide the cup-tie. To the relief of the cup holders Goldsmith drew in to earn them two shots and a 13-12 win to level the match 4-4 on points and to send Kirby Bedon "A" into the next round courtesy of a winning 52-47 shots margin.
Bure/Wensum/Tens Leagues Presentation Night
Blofield Heathlands was the venue for the joint presentation evening and an excellent time was had by all as County Team Assistant Manager Bob Oatway conducted a Fish & Quiz Evening to round off the winter season.
Frank Rushbrooke
Bowlers will be sad to hear of the death of Frank Rushbrooke of Taverham SMBC, who previously played for Horsford Heroes.

Latest News Updated 12-5-10
Summer League & Cup
The Norfolk Summer League Div One season began with defending champions Kirby Bedon "A" displaying indifferent form in their early season games. Newly promoted Kirby Bedon "B" beat Kirby "A" 5-3 in their opening local derby with Joe Brown's triple winning 19-8 and drawing their other game 13-13. In the return fixture Kirby Bedon "A" got revenge winning 8-0 with Phil Watson's triple winning 12-9 and 17-7 and Selwyn Goldsmith's triple winning 19-3 and 13-8. Bob Carter, resplendent in their new yellow & green colours, defeated Kirby Bedon "A" 8-0 with Melvin Woods' triple winning 12-11 & 14-11 and George Clarke's triple winning 16-9 and 18-4. It was a pleasure to see Steve Bridge back in action for Carter and with their line-up this year they must fancy their chances to end the ten year stranglehold Kirby Bedon "A" have had on the league title. Wymondham's second season in Div One started brightly as they inflicted a heavy home defeat on Kirby Bedon "B". Sylvia Archer, Shirley Foster & Debbie Phillips stormed to a 21-7 win against Joe Brown's triple while Peter King, Mark Linsdell & Chris Mann won 16-8 against Gerald Chilver's triple. There was to be no fairy tale comeback for Kirby Bedon "B" in the second half as Debbie Phillips beat Gerald Chilvers 15-4 and Chris Mann beat Joe Brown 15-7 for an 8-0 win. Wymondham also negotiated the preliminary round of the Summer Cup with last years beaten finalists winning 6-2 at Watton Yellow. A great first half set them on their way as Pat Saunders, Mark Linsdell & Chris Mann won 24-9 and Sylvia Archer, Steve Phillips & Debbie Phillips won 17-8. After the break Chris Mann's triple made the tie safe winning 21-12 while Watton recorded a consolation win as Margaret Hunter beat Debbie Phillips 19-4.
ESMBA National Club Championships
The ESMBA further enhanced their reputation for scoring own goals by only informing clubs in the second week of May the dates for the group stages of the National Club Championships starting on June 6th. After the success of the new competition last summer, which was won by Norfolk side Kirby Bedon, clubs were told that information would be sent out early for 2010, but the lateness in informing clubs of dates & venues is bound to cause difficulties for competing teams. Summer League Div One side First Bus had already contacted the ESMBA voicing their concerns regarding the failure to get details out in good time and title holders Kirby Bedon have also indicated that the delay is likely to cause them difficulties in fielding a side. The full draw is;
Group 1 (venue Itchen, date June 27th) Burham (Kent), Chanctonbury Foxes (West Sussex), Cuaco (London) & Portsdown (Hampshire)
Group 2 (venue Manea, date June 6th) Kirby Bedon (Norfolk), Stoneyhills (Essex), First Bus (Norfolk) & Bob Carter (Norfolk)
Group 3 (venue Avon, date June 6th) Crudwell (Wiltshire), Middlezoy (Somerset), Hazelbury Bryan (Dorset) & Hollylane (West Midlands)
Group 4 (venue Itchen, date June 27th) Flight Refuelling (Dorset), Seend (Wiltshire), Westbury Blue Circle (Wiltshire) & Templecoombe (Somerset0
Group 5 (venue Felixstowe, date June 13th) Doddington (Cambs), Sprowston SSC (Norfolk), Wymondham (Norfolk) & Stoneyhills 2 (Essex)
              ( Sources within the ESMBA now suggest these details may be subject to change )
                                                                                                                     Posted 12-5-10

Eddie Medler Pairs
Held at Lakeside 25th April 2010
Marjorie Hall of Felthorpe & Ian MacLean of Hevingham won the Eddie Medler Memorial Pairs but only after non-league players Robert Dewing & George Mears of Foxley came close to causing the biggest upset in years. A nail-biting final saw the experienced pairing of Hall & MacLean leading by just one shot going into the last end before they scored three shots to win 9-5. In the semi-finals Marjorie Hall & Ian MacLean had beaten Sprowston's Linda Chadwick & David Dewing 8-2 while the Foxley pair had claimed a major scalp beating Coltishall aces Mally Catchpole & Jean Barnett 7-5 on their way to a shock final place. Next years event will be played on the 17th April at Lakeside Country Club, Lyng.

                                                Bure Singles Finals
   Hosted by Kirby Bedon on 19th April 2010
Alan Williamson of Anglian Windows turned the form-book inside out as he produced the performance of his life to lift the Bure League Singles Championship crown at Kirby Bedon. Facing the highly talented Hevingham star Vic "Quiet Man" Woods the Anglian Windows player showed no sign of nerves as he put in a flawless display to wear his illustrious opponent down winning by 14-1 with two ends to spare. There was no sign of what was to come as Vic Woods drew in four super woods on the opening end but Williamson attacked with his last bowl to take the jack through to score two shots. It was Woods' turn to attack with his last bowl on the second end as he found himself three shots down and he was relieved to take shot. On the third end the last bowl was again crucial and Williamson's attacking shot earned him an early 4-1 lead. Vic Woods ditched the jack on the next end but Williamson drew applause as he skilfully deposited a toucher into the ditch to turn the screw on the former Norfolk Singles champion. With Williamson visibly growing in confidence with every bowl he extended his lead to 9-1 by the halfway stage to leave Woods in deep trouble. The strain was beginning to show on the Hevingham star as he made a questionable decision on the seventh end to go 10-1 down. With a Williamson bowl sitting on the jack, and a Vic Woods bowl eighteen inches behind, just a touch was needed to spring the jack but Woods instead launched a firing wood which shot the jack back knocking the Hevingham players own bowl into the ditch and dead. Williamson was now playing with a fluency certainly bolstered by his massive lead and the next two ends saw him move 13-1 up. After conceding another single on the tenth end the Hevingham player conceded and Alan Williamson was the new Bure Singles champion. Williamson had claimed another huge scalp in the quarter-finals beating East Tuddenham's John Turner by 8-3 before defeating Woodbastwick's Roger Green 10-4 in the semi-finals. It was a double disappointment for Woodbastwick in the semi-finals as Trevor Hallett went down 14-2 against Vic Woods.

                  Philip Clarke
We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Philip Clarke of Martham SMBC. Philip was one of the great characters on the Norfolk short mat bowls scene for many, many years and will be greatly missed. The N.C.S.M.B.A would like to offer their condolences to Hazel.
                                                                                      Posted 16-4-10
BURE TRIPLES FINALS NIGHT
Hosted by Horsford BC on 14th April 2010
Hevingham's Ian McLean, Maurice Kemp & Vic "Quiet Man" Woods edged their way to victory in an excellent final against Kirby Bedon's Jill Watson, Jimmy Dye & Phil Watson. The Hevingham triple had moved 3-0 up after two ends but by the finish of the fourth end it was all square at 3-3. Again the Hevingham triple took the lead and with two ends remaining were 5-4 up. The last two ends were tight but both resulted in single shots being taken by Woods' triple as they lifted the title by a 7-4 margin. They reached the final with a 7-5 quarter-final win against fellow Hevingham triple Pat Bunn, Alan Bunn & Lesley Crowe and an 8-3 win in the semi-finals against Kirby Bedon's Shirley Brown, Brian Saunders & Joe Brown. Watson's triple reached the final with an 11-5 win against another Kirby Bedon triple, Carol Johnson, Peter Johnson & Gerald Chilvers, in the quarter-finals and a 9-5 semi-final win against Margaret Wood, Trevor Hallett & Tony Wright of Woodbastwick.

BURE PAIRS FINALS NIGHT
Hosted by Horsford BC on 12th April 2010
Kirby Bedon pairs dominated proceedings with Shirley Brown & Gerald Chilvers beating Jimmy Dye & Joe Brown 9-5 in a final that saw a husband & wife locked in battle for the silverware. Both Kirby pairs had played well throughout the night but in the final Shirley & Gerald opened with a three on the first end and were 7-0 up after four ends. A count of three on the last end made the result look more respectable for Jimmy & Joe but Shirley Brown & Gerald Chilvers were worthy winners. In the quarter-finals they had beaten the Anglian Windows pairing of Keith Halford & Mike Boswell 9-5 and in the semi-finals they beat Woodbastwick's Elsie Couling & Roy Grapes by 12-3. The losing finalists route to the final was via a 10-2 win over Brenda Sizer & Diane Boswell of Anglian Windows in the quarter-finals and a 10-6 win in the semi-finals against Coltishall's Martin & Eddy Edridge.
                                                                                          Posted 16-4-10

Norfolk Fail to Shine at new National Championship venue
Devon's Lee Toleman crowned King of Kempston!

                                Kempston I.B.C                        Lee Toleman - Singles & Pairs Champion

The National Championships have been played at Kettering for several years but in a move that has generated much discussion among bowlers this season's Championships were staged at Kempston I.B.C. This decision resulted in players having to adjust to a slower "mat on mat" surface than the much faster leisure centre surface used at Kettering. Any expectation that this would benefit Norfolk players who bowl on this surface at Lakeside were dispelled as the "usual suspects" showed their class. The Championships began on Thursday with the National Singles event. Wymondham's Chris Mann & Connaught's Lee Fallows both made it through to the last 16. Lee Fallows lost 12-6 to Hampshire's highly rated Jason McLean while Ollie Allen was beaten by Devon's Lee Toleman who went on to lift the National Singles crown in dramatic fashion. Toleman was six shots down with only two ends remaining against Andrew Beard of East Sussex before coming back to win 11-10 after an extra end. Friday's National Pairs saw Ollie Allen & Hempnall's Neil Davidson reach the last 32 as did Melvin Woods of Bob Carter & John Turner of East Tuddenham but that proved to be as good as it would get. Allen & Davidson lost 15-7 to Warwickshire's David Hayward & Jon Pitcher while Woods & Turner went down 12-3 to Cheshire's Keith Smith & Ste Tinsley. The Pairs Final again saw Lee Toleman & Andrew Beard face each other and Devon's Toleman, playing with Simon Pridham, again came out on top beating Andrew Beard & Paul Seaman of East Sussex 8-7. The National Fours on Friday proved to be a disaster area for Norfolk as all four Norfolk rinks failed to make it through the group stage. The brilliant Shropshire rink of Warwick France, Alan Williams, Chris Shakeshaft & Chris Williams beat M Young, Babs Morokutti, Craig Burgess & Barry Hedges of Essex 8-6 in the final to retain the trophy they won at Kettering last year. The National Triples on Sunday saw two Norfolk entries reach the last 16 before suffering defeat. Hempnall's Jon Sparham, Halvergate's David Lamb & Bob Carter's Robert Howlett lost to Leigh Hall's Northants triple while Shirley & Joe Brown of Costessey, playing with Kirby Bedon's Gerald Chilvers, lost to J Neal, G Soller & M Walker of Cheshire. In the final Dave Hayward, Tom Millership & Jon Pitcher of Warwickshire became England Triples Champions when they beat M Walker's Cheshire triple.
   Posted 12-4-10

Woodbastwick lift Norwich Cup for third time
Woodbastwick lifted the Norwich Cup for the third time after beating Sprowston S.S.C in the final. Trailing 14-10 from the first leg Sprowston had a huge task on their hands to try and win on Woodbastwick's infamous new surface. The job was made much harder as Roger Green, Elaine Cole & Norma Jablonowski beat John Poynter's triple 11-1 and Arthur Foster, Derek Oates & Peter Jablonowski scored nine shots without reply against Peter Smart's triple in the first session to make it 18-10. Another Woodbastwick win came courtesy of Tony Wright's triple who beat David Dewing 8-7 but the visitors faint hopes were kept alive as Colin Thornton, David Fuller & Terry Fletcher won a measure to beat Jim Couling 4-3. This just prolonged the inevitable though as Norma & Peter Jablonowski both skipped their triples to further wins and Jim Couling outplayed David Dewing 10-0. Tony Wright & Terry Fletcher drew 7-7 and that was the end of Sprowston's brave battle to try and win the Norwich Cup as they conceded with the score 27-13 to Woodbastwick on aggregate.


New Singles Tour Launched by Simon Pridham

Plans to launch a new "Short Mat Players Tour" have been announced by former National champion Simon Pridham with big cash prizes. A document has been published on various bowls forums announcing the new venture which will begin at Exeter in Devon on the weekend of 4/5th September. Other dates will be on the 18/19th Dec 2010, 15/16th Jan 2011 and 12/13th Feb 2011 and a Champions of Champions event on the 23/24th April 2011. Pridham says that the event is open to any bowler from any country and states that "We are in discussion with several people regarding sponsorship and have already had a conformation from one source." He also says that they hope in the future to launch an International Masters Series and a Premier League. Other parts of their announcement include plans for a website with info on players, events, and recorded and live streamed games. Pridham's plans are likely to cause consternation in the ESMBA who up to now have carefully planned and promoted all main events on the short mat bowls calender.

Morokutti's suspension continues
Despite emerging unscathed from the recent SGM when a motion vote of "No Confidence" in the committee was defeated there have been few signs of conciliation. Minute Secretary Babs Morokutti, who was suspended from her post during the run-up to the SGM, remains suspended from the National Committee while her name has been removed from the ESMBA committee web-page. Without a doubt this elected officer's decision to play an active role in calling for a SGM did not endear her to her fellow officers on the ESMBA Management Committee. Another prime mover in the call for the SGM, England manager Barry Hedges, has seen his role brought to an end when it was thought that he may have been offered an extension to his contract. Many would have hoped that following the SGM the opportunity would have been grasped to repair the damage done.
                                                                                                     Posted 7-4-10

International Open at Kempston
International Rinks
The inaugural International Open held at Kempston IBC over the Easter weekend saw the biggest cash prize yet offered at a short mat bowls event in England won by a star studded Irish rink. Liam McHugh, Keith McCullagh, Damien McElroy & Colum McHugh of Cookstown Parochail, lifted the £1,400 first prize. England's Chris Shakeshaft, Allan Williams, Chris Williams & Lee Toleman finished runners-up to earn £600. A brilliant effort by David Lamb of Halvergate & Wymondham's Steve Phillips, Debbie Phillips & Chris Mann took them to the semi-finals before losing to McHugh's rink. The Plate event was won by a top Irish rink comprising of Edmund Marsden, Gordon Stubbs, Paul Reid & Ray Stubbs of Ballinderry. The Irish players who entered have won a number of World, British Isles & Irish titles between them. Damien McElroy & Colum McHugh played in the Irish triple that were crowned World Triples champions a fortnight ago in Dumfries while Gordon & Ray Stubbs were in the Irish rink that lifted the World Fours title.
International Triples
On Sunday the Irish again picked up the big prize with Marty Trainor, Alan Paul & Kevin Conroy winning £1,050 when they came in first in the triples. Cheshire's Ste Tinsley, Keith Smith & Grant Stoller were runners-up and won £450. Wymondham's Steve Phillips, Debbie Phillips & Chris Mann reached the quarter-finals.



             Put Norfolk's name in the frame in the International Open at Kempston

Latest News Updated 02-04-10
Norfolk County Cup Final
Coltishall are County Cup winners for the third time after defeating Hevingham 6-2 at Connaught. Coltishall adapted better to the Connaught mats with Carol Aggas, Brian Bunting & John Aggas beating George Clarke's triple 22-7, Vernon Bunn, Eddie Edridge & Willie Jefferies beating Alan Bunn 19-6 and Mally Catchpole, Jean Barnett & Margaret Harman winning 17-11 against David Sharpe. Vic Woods' Hevingham triple avoided a complete whitewash by beating Peter Barnett 15-7 but this was Coltishall's night as they lifted the coveted trophy.

Coltishall - County Cup Winners

Bure League
Coltishall entertained Hevingham in a vital Bure League clash with the visitors needing a minimum of 5 points to keep their hopes alive of catching defending champions Kirby Bedon. It was not to be though as Vernon Bunn, Martin Edridge & Peter Barnett stormed to a 26-5 win against David Sharpe & Ann Ducker, Eddie Edridge & Willie Jefferies beat Vic Woods 21-11. Margaret Harman's triple weighed in with a 17-14 win and it was all over for Hevingham despite George Clarke's triple winning 17-3. The result leaves Kirby Bedon champions for the seventh time since they quit the City of Norwich League to join the Bure League for the 1998/99 season.
Tens League
Hempnall have won the Tens League for the second time. They have looked likely winners for much of the season with a brilliant home record a great basis for success. Last years winners Bob Carter made sure of the runner-up spot with a 4-0 home win against Coltishall in which Nigel Willard's triple won 21-4 & Melvin Woods' triple won 21-8.
Breckland League
With Wymondham already confirmed as champions the only issue to be settled was the runners-up position. Connaught "A" were at home to Hingham "A" in their last match and made sure of second spot with a convincing 10-0 win. Bill Adcock's triple won 24-10 & Ray Wells' triple won 25-11 as the home side finished the season in style! Yaxham finished third after an 8-2 home win against Banham.
Thurne League
Halvergate are Thurne League champs for the second time. Their narrow 6-4 defeat at Woodbastwick leaves Halvergate untouchable at the top with Bradwell & last years winners Woodbastwick left to fight over second place.
Wensum League
After winning the Wensum Cup Bob Carter still head the Wensum and look favourites to complete the double.
South Norfolk League
Hempnall retained the South Norfolk League title with ease proving far too strong and talented for any other side in this league. Connaught will be delighted to have finished second ahead of three good teamsSaxlingham, Horsford & Thurton.

Chris Kettley
The N.C.S.M.B.A is sad to learn that Chris passed away last night after her brave battle for life. Chris was an active and much loved member of the Norfolk Over 60's group and all of their bowlers will be devastated by the news. Chris and husband Brian came on the last Norfolk Over 60's weekend trip to North Yorkshire. Chris had played league bowls for Felthorpe SMBC and Yaxham. The N.C.S.M.B.A wishes to send their condolences to Brian and their family. The funeral will take place on Tuesday 13th April at Earlham Crematorium at 2.15pm. Family flowers only please. Donations for Cancer Research UK can be sent to W.C Littleproud & Son, Funeral Directors, Hale Road, Bradenham, Norfolk, IP25 7RA
                                                                                                      Posted 29-3-10


National Mixed Fours & Under 18's
Once again Norfolk rinks put up a strong showing at the National Mixed Fours Championships which were this year held at Kempston in Bedfordshire. Norfolk Champions Jenny Walker of Haddiscoe, Jean Woods of Bob Carter, David Lamb of Halvergate & Jon Sparham of Hempnall reached the semi-finals before losing to a Hampshire rink skipped by young Paul England. The all Wymondham rink of Pat Saunders, Brian Saunders, Debbie Phillips & Steve Phillips reached the quarter-finals before losing to the same Hampshire rink who after spoiling Norfolk hopes went on to lose in the final against a Shropshire rink who won for the third year running. In the National Under 18's Mark Linsdell of Wymondham reached the last 16 before losing to R Beckett of Northants. The event was won by Matt Sifford of Essex who beat Paul England of Hampshire who suffered the bitter disappointment of losing in both National Finals.
                                                                  Posted 29-3-10

Norfolk Appoint New County Team Manager
Following Brian Saunders decision not to seek re-election after his four year stint as Norfolk Manager the N.C.S.M.B.A Management Committee voted to appoint Lianne Mills to the position with Bob Oatway as Assistant Manager. Lianne will be the first female Norfolk County Team manager as well as the youngest. Lianne impressed the Committee as she spoke of her pride in wearing the green jacket and outlined her plans to take the Norfolk teams forward. The Chairman thanked Brian Saunders for his work and commitment to the Norfolk team over the last four years on behalf of the Committee.

Latest News Updated 20-03-10
South-East Championships
It was a successful South-East Championship weekend for Norfolk who were celebrating after winning both the pairs & fours titles at Wymondham. On Saturday Kirby Bedon's Phil Watson & Selwyn Goldsmith were unstoppable winning all their games to lift the South East Pairs title with Tony Ealham & Rita Blackhall of Essex second. It was Goldsmith's third South-East Pairs title but the first one for Watson. On Sunday Norfolk lifted the South-East Fours title with Nigel Willard of Bob Carter, Jon Sparham of Hempnall, David Lamb of Halvergate & Melvin Woods of Bob Carter dominating proceedings with Lonnie Fyson's Cambs rink in the runners-up spot. The triples were won by Ann Rawlings, Michael Franks and Lawrie Rawlings of Suffolk with Tony Ealham's Essex triple in second place. Suffolk bowlers came first and second in the South-East Singles with John Warne winning and Michael Rice finishing runner-up.




Breckland League
Another 10-0 home win for Wymondham against Watton clinched their first ever Breckland league title. In the first half the visitors put up stubborn resistance with Terry Crockett's triple losing to Chris Mann by just 17-16 while John Hunter's triple also lost by just one shot to Brian Saunders. The second half was dominated by Wymondham as Debbie Phillips' triple beat Maggie Dibble 27-6 and Steve Phillips' triple beat Margaret Hunter 26-8.
Tens League
Connaught won 4-0 at home to Hevingham with their pairs inflicting serious damage on the visitors. Gordon Wilcox & Bob Oatway beat Lesley Crowe & George Clarke 17-6 while Chris Musk & Ollie Allen won by 16-6 against Ian McLean & Gordon Crowe. Bottom side Horsford Heroes pulled off a shock 2-0 win at Coltishall with Roger Franks' triple beating Margaret Harman.
Thurne League
Woodbastwick moved up to within four points of leaders Halvergate after a 10-0 home win against South Walsham.
Norwich Cup
Sprowston have reached their first ever Norwich Cup final after a 17-7 defeat at Bob Carter in the second leg of their semi-final clash left them 26-22 winners on aggregate with the shots all level at 116 apiece. They will now meet two time cup winners Woodbastwick in the two-leg final. Terry Fletcher's triple earned Sprowston a vital three points at Carter while ex-Carter star David Dewing collected two points as did Peter Smart.
                David Dewing collected three vital points for Sprowston at Carter

                                                                          Latest News Updated 16-03-10

Norfolk County Cup
Coltishall were held to a 4-4 draw on points at home to Thurton in their County Cup semi-final clash but the home side are through to the final on shots. Coltishall captain Willie Jefferies went down 14-11 to Kerry Greenacre and Peter Barnett lost 13-12 to Trevor Howard as Thurton threatened to produce a shock result. Coltishall won through after Margaret Harman's triple beat Anne Rix 20-12 and Andy Wooden beat Albert Reynolds 16-10.
South Norfolk League
Hempnall clinched the South Norfolk League title with three games to spare as they beat Mulbarton 10-0. It was all too easy for them as Jon Sparham's triple won 23-4 and Charlie Archer's triple won 26-4 for their eleventh win from eleven games. The only question now is if they can win their last three games to complete a perfect record of fourteen wins. Connaught have finished their fixtures but are assured of the runners-up spot. Despite beating Wreningham 9-1 Saxlingham have just missed out on the honours this season. M Razzell, M McCluskey & J Torbitt were their biggest scorers winning 24-5. Three teams, Mulbarton, Wreningham & Watton have been cast adrift at the foot of the table and they all met each other this week as they fight to avoid finishing bottom. Mulbarton's 8-2 defeat at Wreningham leaves them four points behind next to bottom Watton and leaves them favourites to fill that unwanted spot. Ken Clarke, Linda Packer & Glenda Adcock scored a big 34-4 win for Wreningham.
Thurne League
Halvergate are now 17 points clear at the top after an 8-2 win at bottom club South Walsham. Second placed Bradwell took a maximum 10-0 win at home to Stalham while third placed Woodbastwick did the same at home to Hemsby.
Tens League
Hempnall took a massive step towards clinching the Tens League title with two vital away wins. They won 4-0 at Horsford Heroes winning on all four mats. The triples inflicted most damage shots wise as Joan Cann, Richard Harrowing & Jon Sparham won 20-8 and Syd Harman, Roger Parker & Neil Davidson won 19-9. At Hevingham Bernie Cudden & Chris Mann clinched a 2-0 win by beating Lesley Crowe & George Clarke 21-12. Chris East, Richard Harrowing & Jon Sparham weighed in with a 13-10 win against David Sharpe's triple while wins for Hevingham's Gordon Crowe & Maurice Kemp reduced the overall arrears to just two shots. Coltishall won 3-0 at Kirby Bedon as the home sides nightmare season in the Tens League continues. Coltishall's Les & Margaret Harman played a very effective attacking game against Jill & Phil Watson and were 11-3 up after eight ends. A brief recovery saw the Watsons reduce the lead to 11-7 after eleven ends but the Harmans won the last four ends for a 17-7 win. On the other mat Bob Pattison's Kirby triple won by a narrow 13-12 against Peter Barnett's triple. After the break Coltishall won on both mats with Ann Ducker, Eddie Edridge & Willie Jefferies beating Gerald Chilver's triple 13-12 while Carol & John Aggas scored a fantastic five on the last end to beat Jimmy Dye & Alistair Hunter 16-11.
Breckland League
The top of the table clash saw Wymondham win at Connaught "A" for the first time ever. The 6-4 win ensures that Wymondham remain hot favourites to take the title for the first time. The opening session was shared with Diane Adcock, Sylvia Parsons & Ray Wells beating Debbie Phillips' triple 18-14 while Wymondham gained a shots advantage as Pat Saunders, M Fisher & Steve Phillips beat Bill Adcock's triple 21-10. After the break Ollie Allen's Connaught triple won 17-12 against Brian Saunders but a solid 22-13 win for Chris Mann against Sheila Bragg sealed a notable Wymondham win.
Breckland 5 Pairs Final
Wymondham's season of success continued as they defeated Connaught "A" by two shots in an exciting 5 Pairs Final at Watton. It was a completely different story from last year when Connaught had outplayed Wymondham in the final but this years Wymondham team has reached a new level as a glance at the league table will tell you. Sylvia Archer & Brian Saunders gave Wymondham a five shot lead beating Bill & Diane Adcock 9-4 in the opening game. The next three games all went Connaught's way with Chris Musk & Sylvia Parsons beating Shirlay Foster & Debbie Phillips 8-7, Ollie Allen & Lee Fallows beating Pat Saunders & Steve Phillips 8-7 and Derek Lyles & Sheila Bragg's 10-6 win against Mark Linsdell & Peter King giving Connaught a 30-29 lead with one game remaining. In the final game Wymondham's Melvyn Barker & Chris Mann faced Connaught's Mike Parsons & Ray Wells with the outcome resting on their shoulders and the Wymondham pair skipped by Mann immediately put the pressure on leading 4-0 after two ends. The Connaught pair tried but could not pull back the deficit trailing 8-3 with three ends to go. Parsons & Wells reduced Wymondham's lead to 9-6 by the end but this was not enough to stop Wymondham lifting the Breckland 5 Pairs title by 38-36 on shots.


Bure Cup Final
Hevingham put an early end to the Bure Cup Final with an incredible 21-3 win against Woodbastwick. The extent of the win prompted Woodbastwick to concede the match without the second leg being played. Gill Bunn, John Richardson & Vic Woods won by 4-1, 6-3 & 8-2 for maximum points. Ian MacLean, Lesley Crowe & George Clarke followed suit winning by 4-3, 8-4 & 5-4 as did Alan Bunn, Gordon Crowe & David Sharpe who won their games 8-0, 5-4 & 7-2.
Bure League
Title rivals Coltishall & Kirby Bedon met with Coltishall's strong second half display sweeping the visitors aside. In the first half Ann Ducker, Eddie Edridge & Willie Jefferies beat Kirby's Phil Watson 18-9 but Kirby's Leonora Chilman, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith hit back beating Peter Barnett's triple 13-11. Home mat knowledge showed after the break with Mally Catchpole, Jean Barnett & Margaret Harman beating Alistair Hunter's triple 20-9 and Carol Aggas, Brian Bunting & John Aggas beating Joe Brown's triple 18-9 for a vital 8-2 home win. Anglian Windows won 8-2 at home to St Faiths with Pat Curchin, Avril Walker & David Walker winning by a huge 34-2 margin against R Hannant's triple. Mike Boswell & Alan Williamson also skipped their triples to wins for Windows while M Mack's St Faith's triple beat Ken Dease 11-8.

   ESMBA CRISIS RESOLVED
A heavily attended Special General Meeting of the ESMBA saw the National Management Committee survive a "No Confidence" vote after a long discussion about their appointment of temporary paid administrative support. The ESMBA Management Committee then withdrew their own proposal to appoint full time contracted paid administration. After further consultations and consideration it is expected that this proposal will be discussed again at a later meeting. It is unclear at present whether the suspension from the committee of ESMBA Minute Secretary Babs Morokutti, who brought the matter to the attention of County Associations, is still in force or if the Management Committee are likely to lift it in a show of concilliation. Babs will be playing for England in the World Championships this weekend. The Special General Meeting was chaired by Cambridgeshire Chairman Roy Everitt whose county had not supported the call for the meeting.
                                                                                                          Posted 16-03-10

CHESHIRE PREMIER I.C.C WINNERS FOR FOURTH YEAR IN A ROW
Cheshire Premier continued their run of success by becoming Inter-County Champions for the fourth year in a row. After winning all four games in the first matches to take an 8-0 lead the writing was already on the wall for Essex and after the third set of games the score was 22-6. The final scoreline was 26-14 in favour of Cheshire and the fact that this was against a talented Essex team shows just how good they are. West Midlands "A" are the new "A" Team Champions after beating West Sussex "A" 23-17 and denying their opponents a third successive win. In the Consolation events West Sussex Premier beat Surrey Premier 32-8 and Cheshire "A" beat Bucks 24-16.

Latest News Updated 8-3-10
Norfolk Cup
Cup holders Kirby Bedon are out after losing at Hevingham on shots after the game finished at 4-4 on points. The match was level at the break after Shirley Brown, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith won 15-12 for the cup holders against Pat Williamson's triple and Hevingham's Gill Bunn, John Richardson & Vic Woods had beaten Phil Watson's triple 24-3. After the break Alistair Hunter's Kirby triple beat David Sharpe's triple 17-10 but Hevingham continued to increase their shots lead as George Clarke's triple beat Gerald Chilvers 21-4.
Norwich Cup
Woodbastwick overcame Cromer to reach the final for the seventh time after a great semi-final battle played out over two legs. Cromer enjoyed home advantage in the first leg but were stunned to find themselves 10-2 down on points at the interval. A great comeback saw Cromer level the score at 12-12 on points with Woodbastwick taking just a two shot lead into the second leg. Yet again Woodbastwick produced a 10-2 first half lead to leave them 22-14 up on aggregate but any thoughts of a comfortable victory evaporated as Cromer won three of the next four games. Cromer's dreams of cup glory finally ended as the final session was shared leaving Woodbastwick with a 26-22 aggregate win. Sprowston sprang a massive shock in their semi-final first leg match at home to Bob Carter by handing out a 19-5 beating to the six time cup winners. In fact the scale of the defeat could have been even greater as Sprowston went into the last session 19-1 up but Nigel Willard & Melvin Woods both skipped their triples to late wins against Peter Smart & David Dewing. Margaret Poynter, Tony Mayhew & John Poynter were Sprowston's top triple winning their three games by 7-2, 8-5 & 9-0 while Colin Thornton, David Fuller & Terry Fletcher won two games and drew the other. Bob Carter will now hope that their fast Verde mats will enable them to hit back in the second leg but they have a mountain to climb if they are to reach another final.
South Norfolk League
The top of the table clash saw Hempnall record their tenth straight win with a 6-4 victory at Connaught. Hempnall's county stars led the way with Jon Sparham winning 14-4 and Chris Mann winning 19-6. Connaught also lost at Horsford by 8-2 where Roger Frank's triple won 21-10. Chris Musk, Ty Musk & Sheila Bragg did their best to snatch the match points for Connaught with a 24-9 win but the home side scored 59 shots against 57. Thurton showed some of the form they had last season beating Mulbarton 10-0 with Jenny Walker, Jan McClintock & A Reynolds winning 32-4. Horsford won a close match 6-4 at Mulbarton. Connaught brushed aside Saxlingham 10-0 with Alan Marshall, Philomena King & Ollie Allen winning 21-9.
Thurne League
Halvergate's 10-0 home win against Stalham takes them 19 points clear of second placed Bradwell. A close match at Woodbastwick saw visitors Bradwell finish four shots ahead for a 6-4 win. Bottom of the table South Walsham went down 8-2 at Hemsby.
Tens League
Horsford Heroes came close to their first away win of the season but lost by just one shot at Woodbastwick. In the pairs Norma & Peter Jablonowski produced an 18-13 win for the home side but Sue Fox & Mick Dale replied with a 15-9 win for the visitors. Horsford's Peter Fox, David Crosby & Vic Webster won 15-7 in the triples but Woodbastwick's Damian Lamb, Brian Frost & Jim Couling won 18-8 against Roger Frank to give their side a 2-0 win on points, 52-51 on shots.
Bure League
It was a massive week with all four title chasing sides in action and Hevingham without a doubt emerging with the widest smiles! At home to East Tuddenham they amassed 72 shots against just 33 for a maximum 10-0 win. Gill Bunn, John Richardson & Vic Woods stormed to a 21-4 win against Russell Harris while Maurice Kemp's triple beat Owen Secker 17-6. At home to league leaders Kirby Bedon a close first half saw Hevingham's Pat Bunn, Pat Williamson & Maurice Kemp defeat Phil Watson's triple 14-12 but Shirley Brown, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith hit back for Kirby beating George Clarke's triple 11-8 in a tense battle. The second half belonged to Hevingham with David Sharpe's triple winning 16-6 and Vic Woods' triple winning 19-12. Kirby did win 8-2 at Horsford with Jill Watson, Shirley Brown & Phil Watson winning 19-3 and Peter Johnson, Jimmy Dye & Bob Pattison winning 18-10 while Bob Burrage's triple scored the home sides only win. Coltishall's title hopes took a knock with an 8-2 defeat at Anglian Windows where Diane Halford, Keith Halford & Mike Boswell won 17-8. Coltishall's away game at East Tuddenham resulted in the home side winning 6-4 with Geraldine Potter, Denny Cross & Russell Harris winning 23-13 against Peter Barnett. Woodbastwick kept their faint title hopes alive with an 8-2 home win against Horsford with Michael Fox, Trevor Howard & Tony Wright winning 27-4 while Bob Burrage's triple again secured Horsford's only points beating Peter Jablonowski's triple 16-13.
Breckland League
Wymondham continue on to what is looking like their first ever Breckland title despite slipping up at Banham. Defending champions Yaxham appear to have too much ground to make up after losing 6-4 at home to Wymondham. Three Wymondham triples, skipped by Steve Phillips, Chris Mann & Debbie Phillips, all won but a big win by Owen Secker's triple claimed the two match points for Yaxham. Wymondham's great home form continued as they beat Connaught "B" 10-0 with Debbie Phillips winning 26-10. Banham are always dangerous on their own mats as Wymondham found to their cost losing only their second league game of the season. Val Footer, Derek Gray & John Williamson beat Debbie Phillips' triple 29-10 as they picked up an excellent 8-2 win. Mike Parsons, Ty Musk & Sheila Bragg of Connaught "A" won 25-9 but Watton gave the home side a headache on the other three mats. Margaret Hunter's triple drew 15-15 with Ollie Allen, Maggie Dibble's triple beat Derek Lyles 17-16 and Terry Crockett lost by just two shots to Sylvia Parsons in a 7-3 home win for Connaught.



                                                                                                     Posted 1-3-10
Bure League
Defending champions Kirby Bedon entertained Hevingham in a clash between two title contenders. The first half was shared as Kirby's Carol Johnson, Teresa Goldsmith & Selwyn Goldsmith beat David Sharpe's Hevingham triple 23-7 and visiting triple Gill Bunn, John Richardson & Vic "Quiet Man" Woods beat Phil Watson's triple 17-12. After the break Kirby wrapped up a solid 8-2 home win with Peter Johnson, Jimmy Dye & Alistair Hunter winning 20-5 against Pat Williamson's triple and Shirley Brown, Joe Brown & Gerald Chilvers beating former Kirby player George Clarke by 12-11. Hevingham picked up a useful 8-2 win at Anglian Windows where Gordon Crowe, John Richardson & Vic Woods won 20-5 and Pat Bunn, Pat Williamson & Maurice Kemp won 20-10. A close match at Coltishall saw East Tuddenham finish just four shots down but the home side picked up a 7-3 points win. Carol Aggas, Jean Barnett & John Aggas scored Coltishall's biggest win beating Russell Harris' triple 16-5 but a big 17-6 win for Albert Palgrave, Chrissie Turner & John Turner kept the visitors in the hunt. Coltishall captain Willie Jefferies skipped his triple to an 11-7 win while Peter Barnett & Robin Amos drew 10-10.
Breckland League
Connaught "A" visited lowly Harling hoping for a big win to boost their title push but instead were involved in a terrific match that they won by just two shots for a 6-4 points win. For Harling Brian Knappett's triple won 24-11 and Roy Buffery's triple won 18-8 as the visitors were put under intense pressure. Connaught hit back to snatch the bonus points with Derek Liles' triple winning 21-12 & Sheila Bragg's triple winning 25-9. Watton's good home form continued with a 10-0 win against Forncett as David Quadling, Diane Quadling & Ron Harvey won 30-8. Watton lost 10-0 at Connaught "B" in an entertaining match. A good final six ends gave Connaught's Philomena King, Ron Madden & Alison Rush a 17-10 win while Joyce Hazell's triple came back from 16-9 down to win 19-17.
Tens League
Leaders Hempnall had a mixed week winning at home to Bob Carter but losing at Kirby Bedon. Bernie Cudden & Jon Sparham romped to a 27-3 win against J & M Woods so despite the other games being tight all four match points went Hempnall's way. At Kirby Bedon Leonora Chilman, Peter Johnson & Gerald Chilvers beat Sid Harman, Neil Davidson & Roger Parker 24-9 as Hempnall lost 4-0, only their second defeat this season. Coltishall won 2-0 at Woodbastwick in a strange game that saw both teams produce big wins in the pairs. Coltishall's Eddie Edridge & Willie Jefferies won 21-7 against D Lamb & Trevor Hallett but this was cancelled out as Norma & Peter Jablonowski beat their pld County team mates Carol & John Aggas 21-6. Jim Couling's triple edged a 16-15 win against Peter Barnett but the game was won for Coltishall as Margaret Harman's triple beat Derek Sheldrake's triple 14-9.

Inter-County Championships, played 27-2-10
Norfolk "A" 17 (170) Bucks 23 (182)

Norfolk "A" fought hard against Bucks in their I.C.C Consolation Semi-Final clash in Northants but slipped to a 23-17 defeat. Peter Adcock, Colin Coman, David Dewing & Les Chadwick finished with maximum points in the rinks while Peter Smart won 20-9 in his opening singles game and drew his second. Sheila Bragg won her second game 21-8 to finish on a high but a wipe-out in the triples, where Bucks took all ten points, shattered their hopes.


            Mick Mortimer
Short mat bowlers will be sad to learn of the death of Mick Mortimer of East Tuddenham. He lost his battle for life on Monday. Mick represented Norfolk in their first ever county match, a friendly against Suffolk, in April 1988. He was also the first ever winner of the Norfolk County Pairs title in the 1986/87 season, winning it with his daughter Angela. He will forever be an important part of the history of Norfolk short mat bowls and will be greatly missed by many in the sport. Rest in Peace Mick.
                                                                                                                     Posted 26-02-10
   ESMBA CRISIS - INFORMATION FOR NORFOLK MEMBERS
The Norfolk CSMBA has named its delegates who will attend the Special General Meeting of the ESMBA which will take place on Saturday 13th March at the Caroline Chisholm School, Wooldale Road, Northampton. The county will be represented by Vice-Chairman Brian Saunders and Membership and I.T. Officer Lianne Mills. The meeting will discuss two motions. The first one, which has been supported by a number of County Associations including Norfolk, is "That the members of the ESMBA do not consider that the current committee are organising the Association and its finances in the best interest of its members and the members have no confidence in the committee." The second motion has been proposed by the ESMBA Management committee and is "The ESMBA management committee appoint full time contracted paid administration." At a NCSMBA Management Committee meeting held on 20th January the proposal "This Committee ratifies the decision made by the elected officers to support a request for a Special General Meeting of the ESMBA" was passed unanimously. Officers in attendance were John Aggas, Roy Grapes, Selwyn Goldsmith, Brian Saunders, Peter Smart, Jane Frary, Jill Watson, Lianne Mills & Teresa Goldsmith. League delegates were also in attendance representing the Breckland League, Bure League, City of Norwich League, Coastal League, Summer League, Tens League & the Wensum League. The ESMBA Special General Meeting is open to all registered players who wish to attend but they must produce their registration cards at the meeting.


   Inter-County Championships
Played 20-02-10
Norfolk Premier 7 Wiltshire 21

Norfolk went down by a disappointing 21-7 margin against Wiltshire in the Quarter-Finals of the I.C.C.Consolation Competition. Norfolk conceded after the singles & pairs had played their second games and the match was beyond their reach. The statistics make grim reading with the singles and pairs together taking just two points out of a possible twenty. Wiltshire, who have been given permission to drop down into the "A" section next season because of their lack of success, had already claimed the scalp of Shropshire Premier in the last round and now set their sights on West Sussex in the semi-finals. Norfolk's victories were secured by Mike Boswell & Ollie Allen in the pairs with a 16-8 win, Jean Woods, Brian Saunders, Jean Barnett & David Lamb in the rinks with a 22-3 win and Neil Davidson, Robbie Lamb & Melvin Woods with a 14-2 triples win. Phil Watson's triple earned a point in a 9-9 draw in their only game.

   Latest News updated 22-02-10
South Norfolk League
An 8-2 home win for Connaught against Mulbarton puts them second in the table. Ollie Allen's triple recorded a 26-6 win and D Lyles' triple won 19-7. Connaught were less successful at Thurton where they went down 6-4. Never the less Hempnall, with two games in hand and level with Connaught on 77 points, remain hot favourites. Hempnall's shot difference is +291 while Connaught's is only +210. Watton beat visitors Thurton 6-4 to move off the bottom of the table with Bryan Dibble's win earning Watton the bonus points. Trevor Howard's 19-5 win was Thurton's best result.
Bure League
Defending champions Kirby Bedon defeated Horsford BC 10-0 despite a spirited performance from some of the visitors especially Paul Isgate. Peter Johnson, Jimmy Dye & Alistair Hunter romped to an easy 30-1 win and a late surge by Gerald Chilver's triple saw them win 23-9. A great match at Woodbastwick saw the home side defeat Hevingham 8-2 with only four shots separating the teams. Home skips Norma Jablonowski, Tony Wright & Peter Jablonowski all won narrowly with Maurice Kemp's 13-9 win against Jim Couling the only Hevingham victory. Woodbastwick did less well at title chasing East Tuddenham where the home side won 8-2. Rita Secker, Madge Meachen & Owen Secker won 19-10, Geraldine Potter, Denny Cross & Peter Smart won 18-12 and John Turner's triple won 13-7. The biggest win of the night was by Woodbastwick's Arthur Foster, Derek Oakes & Peter Jablonowski who beat Robin Amos 21-7. St Faiths suffered a massive 10-0 on points, 112-19 on shots, defeat at Coltishall where John Aggas won 33-5, Willie Jefferies won 34-3 and Peter Barnett won 29-2. Kirby Bedon had to settle for an 8-2 home win against St Faiths with the absence of key players affecting the side. The biggest win was a 19-6 result for Carol Johnson, Shirley Brown & Joe Brown.

Tens League
Hevingham won a hard earned two points at Woodbastwick with Pat Williamson's triple winning 13-10 & David Sharpe's triple winning 11-7. Woodbastwick's Michael Fox & Trevor Hallett won their pairs game 13-11 while the other pairs game was drawn.
Breckland League
Wymondham are setting a hot pace after two more good wins. E Barker, Peter King & Chris Mann led the way at Hingham "A" with a 25-15 win as they won 8-2. They also produced another massive 10-0 home win at the expense of Carleton Rode. Pat Saunders, Peter King & Steve Phillips won 33-6 and Mary Fisher, Shirley Foster & Debbie Phillips won 28-4 as Carleton Rode were crushed 103-33 on shots. Carleton Rode fared much better at home with a 10-0 win against Harling & an 8-2 win against Hingham "A". M Newby, J Davidson & R Davidson won their game by 28-13 against Hingham while R Lorn, M Baker & R Baker scored a 33-12 win against Harling. Forncett's Andrew Coleman, Joan Rumsby & Dennis Rumsby helped their side to a tight 6-4 home win against Hingham "B" with a 21-6 win.

Geoff Payne lifts City League Singles Crown
(played 7-2-10 at Lakeside)
Geoff Payne is the new City of Norwich League Singles Champion after a dramatic extra end victory against Sprowston's county team star David Dewing. Geoff Payne, a Norfolk Over 60's regular who plays for County Council in the City League, beat Jarrold's skip Peter Carter in the semi-finals. Payne's experience paid off as the player, who turns out for Saxlingham in the South Norfolk League, lifted the coveted singles crown in style.

      Inter-County Championships
                                                                                                  Played 13-02-10

Norfolk "A" 29 v Shropshire "A" 11

Norfolk "A" are through to the I.C.C Consolation semi-final stage after a solid win against Shropshire. Maximum points were earned in the pairs as Jenny & Peter Walker won their games by 19-5 & 14-11 while Chris Musk & Elaine Cole won 19-7 & 11-8. The singles picked up eight points as Peter Smart won twice and Sheila Bragg once. Les Chadwick's rink won their games by 19-2 & 13-4 while Ty Musk's rink won once. Ray Lamb's triple won their second game while Alison Rush's triple drew their second game. Norfolk "A" now meet Bucks in the semi-finals.

                                                 Latest News updated 17-02-10

Bure League
The title race looks wide open with no team able to yet claim the title favourites role. East Tuddenham won 9-1 at home to Anglian Windows with Geraldine Potter, Denny Cross & Russell Harris winning 19-9 but all the other three games were tight and Windows will feel unlucky not to have earned more from this match. Kirby Bedon completed a league double against East Tuddenham winning 8-2 at home, the same result as they achieved at Tuddenham. Kirby's Peter Johnson, Jimmy Dye & Alistair Hunter recovered from 9-6 down after eleven ends to beat Robin Amos 17-9 while Phil Watson's & Selwyn Goldsmith's triples both won. John Turner earned Tuddenham their two points with the last wood of his game against Gerald Chilvers. St Faiths tend to struggle against the top teams in the league but came close to a shock result at home to Hevingham where they went down by just one shot in a 7-3 points defeat. Rita Minter, David Guyton & John Pye of St Faiths beat Vic "Quiet Man" Woods 20-7 while Richard Hart's triple earned a 12-12 draw. Janet Kemp, Lesley Crowe & George Clarke did most to rescue Hevingham from defeat as they beat M Mack's triple 18-7. In their next game Hevingham returned to form with a 10-0 home win against Horsford BC with Vic Woods' triple winning 27-6 and Maurice Kemp's triple winning 28-2. Coltishall's Carol Aggas, Brian Bunting & John Aggas spearheaded an 8-2 away win at Horsford as they won 21-9 against Mick Dale's triple.

Breckland League
Title favourites Wymondham romped to a 10-0 victory against Hingham "B" scoring 137 shots against just 27. Hingham, rooted to the bottom with thirteen straight defeats, had no answer as Wymondham ripped them apart on all four mats. Melvyn Barker, Mark Linsdell & Brian Saunders won 32-6, Mary Fisher, Peter King & Chris Mann won 37-8, Enid Barker, Pat Saunders & Steve Phillips won 37-6 and Sylvia Archer, Shirley Foster & Debbie Phillips won 31-7 in a one-sided encounter. Defending champions Yaxham suffered a 6-4 defeat at Watton where the home triple of Roger Kerrison, M Seagar & Jim Delaney won 26-11. Yaxham won 8-2 at home to struggling Harling but visitors Betty Murphy, Terence Murphy & Terry Hewitson scored a surprise 26-11 win. It was local derby time at Connaught where the "A" team beat the "B" team 10-0 with Lee Fallows, Bob Oatway & Ollie Allen winning 29-10. Hingham "A" beat Forncett 8-2 with Jenny Potton, Colin Harris & Mike White winning 28-10.
South Norfolk League
Hempnall are now in pole position to retain the title after a resounding 10-0 win at title rivals Saxlingham. They also won 8-2 at home to Horsford despite a shock 14-12 defeat for Paul Baker's triple against David Woodrow. Saxlingham's title hopes took another knock at Horsford where they lost 8-2 as Keith Chapman's triple won 25-6. The only win for Saxlingham was delivered by Pat Meale, making a debut in the South Norfolk League, Peter Cook & Geoff Briggs. Third placed Connaught beat bottom club Watton 8-2 with Ty Musk, Chris Musk & Sheila Bragg winning 26-4. Wreningham beat Thurton 6-4 with J Bond's triple winning 23-5 against Ann Rix.
Coastal League
Woodbastwick Eagles have been confirmed as Coastal League champions finishing six points clear of local rivals Woodbastwick Owls. Bradwell Blue finished ten points back in third place.
Coastal Cup
Woodbastwick Eagles have started off their Coastal Cup campaign with five straight wins including a 13-5 home win against Bradwell reds and a 10-8 local derby win against Woodbastwick Owls. Second placed Bradwell Blue slammed Hemsby 16-2 but Hemsby fared better at home to the Owls beating them 12-6.
Tens League
Despite the heroics of Horsford's David Davitt & Keith Chapman, who beat Chris Musk & Ollie Allen 25-12 in the pairs, Connaught snatched a 2-0 home win. Ty Musk, Bill Adcock & Ray Wells won their triples game 18-8 to ensure a home win.

     SENSATIONAL DEVELOPMENTS IN ESMBA CRISIS
COMMITTEE SUSPENDS BABS MOROKUTTI AND NAMES MARCH 13th DATE FOR SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
ESMBA President George Clarke took centre stage this weekend in the crisis that threatens to cripple the sport as he presented Babs Morokutti with a letter informing her that she was suspended from her post as ESMBA Minute Secretary until the next AGM. The action appears to have been taken because of Morokutti's role in appealing for County Associations to call for a Special General Meeting to discuss a vote of "No Confidence" in the committee following their decision to pay £1,000 a month to Keith Hawkins to provide administrative support. After receiving letters from both Keith Hawkins & Vice-President Peter Winter informing her that her presence would not be required at the ESMBA Committee Seminar weekend Babs Morokutti caused consternation among her fellow officers by arriving for the meeting. A vote was taken by the committee to suspend her, and ESMBA President George Clarke handed the Essex & England international a letter informing her of this. A decision was then made to set a date for the Special General Meeting that will be held at the Caroline Chisholm in Northants on the 13th March. Under the Constitution ten counties are required to call for a Special General Meeting and this figure was quickly reached as Devon, Derbyshire, Hertfordshire, London, Merseyside, Norfolk, North Yorkshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire & West Yorkshire voted for such a call. The number of counties calling for a meeting grew to fifteen this week as Essex, Dorset, Durham, Cornwall & Humberside added their support leaving the committee with no option but to set a date. The worsening situation has spread alarm among counties and clubs who are urgently attempting to address the new government legislation on the Child Protection Policy. Babs Morokutti's dual role involves the demanding task of ESMBA Child Protection Officer and she is heavily committed helping and advising counties & clubs on what is needed to comply with the act. Babs Morokutti insisted that regardless of the action of the ESMBA Committee she will continue to assist counties to the best of her ability on Child Protection matters. I understand that Babs Morokutti will be contacting counties asking them not to e-mail her on Child Protection issues on the ESMBA e-mail address that has been featured on the ESMBA website as she alleges that her access to these e-mails has been blocked. She has requested that all e-mails regarding this are sent to her private e-mail address which is

Former ESMBA President Roy Grapes entered the debate this week describing events surrounding the ESMBA as the "worst crisis in its 25 year history."

OTHER KEY FIGURES IN THE CRISIS
Other key figures who will almost certainly take a major part at the Special General Meeting include ESMBA Chairman Chris Hopkins who is still recovering from a heart attack suffered in the Norfolk v Northants I.C.C. clash earlier in the season. Chris Hopkins has served as ESMBA Chairman for a number of years since deposing former Chairman George Clarke and has kept an iron grip on the committee since. Chris Hopkins has a reputation for being politically adept and some are surprised that this situation has been allowed to blow up under his chairmanship. Hard working Hopkins heavily defeated Simon Willies for the position of Chairman at the last AGM when his Vice-Chairman surprisingly challenged him. Chris Hopkins was not in the chair at the meeting when the controversial decision was taken to appoint Keith Hawkins to the paid role supplying admin support to the ESMBA, this meeting was chaired by Simon Willies, but Hopkins has strongly supported the move. England Team Manager Barry Hedges is known to have issues with the committee which became evident when a recent England Team weekend was initially canceled without his knowledge. If a "No Confidence" vote is carried at the Special General Meeting, and the committee resigns, many would expect Hedges to be a contender for a major role on the committee. England international Craig Burgess recently applied for the vacant position of General Secretary and is in the process of promoting an open international event which will offer the largest cash prizes ever given in short mat bowls. There is little doubt that he would relish the opportunity to take on a major role in the Association to promote his progressive views as to how the sport should move forward. A major figure in the sport is former England manager Bob Weafer, well known for his bowls holidays and as editor of Short Mat International. Bob Weafer has already stated in his magazine that he would "sack the committee and start again" and some will wonder if we are about to see Bob make a dramatic return to the committee.


                                                                         This item posted 8-2-10


Norfolk Cup
Cup holders Kirby Bedon are through to this season's semi-finals after defeating South Norfolk League giants Hempnall 6-2. In the first half Kirby's Jill Watson, Janice Hewitt & Phil Watson were 8-1 up after five ends against Russell Davidson, Roger Parker & Neil Davidson and led throughout winning 17-8. Hempnall's Ruth Penn, Bernie Cudden & Paul Baker started well against Carol Johnson, Peter Johnson & Selwyn Goldsmith and were 5-0 up after three ends but the Kirby triple turned up the heat to win all but one of the remaining twelve ends to win 15-6. After the break Alistair Hunter's triple sealed victory for Kirby Bedon with a big 22-6 win to earn them an away tie against Hevingham in the semi-finals.Thurton will face a difficult trip to Coltishall in the other semi-final.


Breckland League
Leaders Banham won 10-0 at Hingham "B" scoring 102 shots against just 26 as the bottom club were simply outgunned. Tony Blackburn's triple won 25-5 and Jim Delaney's triple won 32-6 as Banham had a field day. The following evening Banham were brought down to earth as they lost 8-2 at mid-table Forncett where P Lock's triple inflicted a 23-9 defeat on the table toppers. The big match was the clash between title chasing Connaught "A" and defending champs Yaxham. Owen Secker's triple got the visitors off to a flying start beating Derek Lyles' triple 22-7 but Sylvia Parsons' triple beat Russell Harris 16-15 to keep the match level on points at the break. Connaught's all County triple of Lee Fallows, Bob Oatway & Ollie Allen beat Yaxham star John Turner 15-9 in the second half while Sheila Bragg's triple beat Robin Amos 15-13 to give Connaught "A" a 6-4 points win. Yaxham collected a valuable 8-2 home win against Hingham "A" with Russell Flint, Denny Cross & Russell Harris winning 23-7. Wymondham are now handily placed in third place with games in hand on all their rivals after a maximum 10-0 home win against Harling. Peter King's triple won 34-4, Debbie Phillips' triple won 29-4 and Steve Phillips' triple won 25-11 while Chris Mann's triple sneaked in with a 15-13 win to confirm Wymondham as title favourites.



   Norfolk County Mixed Fours
                                                 PLAYED AT LAKESIDE 6-12-09
One of the best county finals in recent years saw Jenny Walker of Haddiscoe, Jean Woods of Bob Carter, David Lamb of Halvergate & Jon Sparham of Hempnall pick up their first ever Norfolk County Mixed Fours title when they defeated Wymondham's Pat Saunders, Brian Saunders, Debbie Phillips & Steve Phillips by 8-7. On the first end two good woods from Pat Saunders at lead gave Wymondham a good start but a great attacking wood by England's David Lamb left his rink holding two shots. Their joy was short-lived as Debbie immediately despatched the jack into the ditch and Wymondham took two shots. With both leads, Pat Saunders & Jenny Walker, putting down some great woods a tight head quickly built up but when the jack was pushed through it was to Wymondham's advantage and they held three shots. Jon Sparham attempted to attack the head with his final wood but hit the block and Wymondham were 5-0 up. Sparham's rink badly needed to get into this match and were helped as Jeannie Woods took shot with a toucher and a Jenny Walker toucher was put in the ditch as insurance. Debbie Phillips then produced a great forehand to spoil their chance of a big end but Sparham's rink still scored their first shot to make it 5-1. By now Sparham had moved to number three with David Lamb at skip and on the fourth end they held another two before Steve Phillips played a superb wood to extend Wymondham's lead to 6-1 and they looked hot favourites. The fifth end was a cracker and Jon Sparham & David Lamb played four superb woods between them as their rink took a massive six to turn the game on its head and give them a 7-6 lead. The Wymondham rink were shell-shocked by this unexpected turn of events in a game that they had dominated up to this point and on the next end Lamb's rink suddenly seemed far more confident as they played their woods. Two great woods by Jenny Walker gave them an early advantage and Jean Woods consolidated as Wymondham were put in trouble again but Brian Saunders opened up the head with an attacking bowl. First Debbie Phillips drew shot and then David Lamb as the tension grew on the penultimate end. Steve Phillips had the last wood and he was one down but he was not quite accurate enough and Lamb's rink were 8-6 up with an end to play. Again two great lead woods by Jenny Walker gave her rink a great start and Jean Woods covered Wymondham's two back bowls. Again Brian Saunders opened up the head with an attacking wood but Jean Woods drew shot with her second wood. Saunders again kept Wymondham's hopes alive taking the jack back so that they held two shots. Sparham took one Wymondham bowl out with a backhand shot and this was followed by a firing wood from Debbie Phillips that touched the jack aside but went through into the ditch. Sparham was asked to push one of their bowls through to the back which he did perfectly and Debbie Phillips again played a weight wood that was so close but not close enough. Lamb then put in a short blocker to try and hamper Steve Phillips effort. Phillips elected to fire but hit another short wood and Lamb's rink were still holding. With his last wood Lamb put in another short blocker. A super forehand attack shot by Phillips evaded Lamb's blocker and took the jack into the ditch for shot but, to the dismay of Wymondham, Lamb's rink held second wood and had held on for an 8-7 victory and the Norfolk Mixed Fours Championship title. All eight players can be more than happy with their performance although Wymondham will have nightmares about the fifth end. In the play-off for third place Pam Crockett of Watton, Eric Frary of Hingham, Jane Frary of Hingham & Terry Crockett of Watton beat Lynn Frank, Peter Fox, Sue Fox & Roger Frank of Horsford Heroes by 7-5.


Norfolk County Triples Championship
Played at Lakeside 29-11-09
In a close final Nigel Willard & Melvin Woods of Bob Carter and East Tuddenham's John Turner beat Costessey's Shirley & Joe Brown and Kirby Bedon's Gerald Chilvers by 7-6. It is proving to be a great season for Willard who lifted the pairs title two weeks ago. Willard and Woods had both won the triples title once before while Turner is now making a habit of it after winning it on five previous occasions. For the Browns and Chilvers it was the second time they have reached a county final this season after they finished runners-up in the fours. The play-off for third place was won by Sprowston's Linda & Les Chadwick and David Dewing who beat Jon Sparham (Hempnall), David Lamb (Halvergate) & Robert Howlett (Bob Carter) also by 7-6.


British Isles Championship News
Wales 21st & 22nd Nov 2010
Yet again Ireland have been crowned British Isles champions after a 23 shot win against England in Wales.

Norfolk County Pairs Championship
played at Lakeside Country Club 8-11-09
Ian MacLean of Hevingham and Nigel Willard of Bob Carter teamed up to lift the Norfolk County Pairs Championship title. In a fascinating final Paul Baker and Neil Davidson of Hempnall fought to the bitter end attempting to claim their first pairs title but the brilliant drawing of MacLean and Willard's tenacity from the skips position could not be denied. They had started the last end two shots up and looked set to win the match when Davidson fired the jack off the mat to force a replay of the end. Yet again Ian MacLean, as he had done all day, drew in two perfect woods to put the Hempnall pair in trouble while Willard covered the back. Neil Davidson was again forced to fire at the head but this time to no avail and MacLean and Willard had won 7-4. Nigel Willard has become somewhat of a pairs specialist having now won this title three times in five years with three different partners. He joins only three players who have had a hat-trick of county pairs titles, Sue Hunt of Bob Carter and Teresa and Selwyn Goldsmith of Kirby Bedon. It was Ian MacLean's second Norfolk Pairs title and incredibly he won it way back in 1989 when he played for Eastern Counties Busmen. In the play-off for third place Melvin Woods (Carter) and John Turner (East Tuddenham) won 9-7 against Phil Watson and Selwyn Goldsmith of Kirby Bedon. The semi-finals had produced two close games with Willard's pair beating Goldsmith's pair 7-5 and Davidson's pair winning 8-7 against Turner's pair. The defending champions Gordon Crowe (First Bus) and George Clarke (Hevingham) had been making good progress until they went down 6-3 to Watson and Goldsmith in the Last 16 stage.



Norfolk County Fours Championship
25-10-09 at Lakeside
David Lamb (Halvergate), Debbie Phillips, Steve Phillips & Chris Mann (all Wymondham) won their first ever Norfolk County Fours title as a showcase final at Lakeside went down to the final bowl of the last end. This was a titanic battle between the old guard and the new wave of Norfolk bowlers as the veteran rink of Costessey's Shirley & Joe Brown, Kirby Bedon's Gerald Chilvers & Hevingham's George Clarke faced four exciting bowlers hungry for county championship glory. Chris Mann's rink got off to a great start scoring three shots on the first end but Clarke kept his composure to level the score at 3-3 after three ends. One shot each on the next two ends kept things all square but a single shot on the penultimate end put Mann's rink 5-4 up in a low scoring game. Clarke called a running wood from his number three Gerald Chilvers on the last end but instead of cleanly picking up the jack he sliced it to the edge of the mat to ensure a nail-biting finale. Chilvers second wood, and that of Mann's number three David "Minty" Lamb, went through into the ditch leaving the skips to decide the issue. Chris Mann's position was more comfortable as he held shot and was in a championship winning position. Clarke's last wood needed to take shot to force a play-off end but his well weighted backhand shot, which was intended to rest the shot bowl to take a single, fractionally missed it's target to leave Chris Mann's rink celebrating a 7-4 victory while George Clarke's rink pondered on how close they had been to winning a fabulous final. In the play-off for third place Kirby Bedon's Jill Watson, Teresa Goldsmith, Phil Watson & Selwyn Goldsmith beat Sprowston's Eddie Costello, Linda Chadwick, Joan Costello & Les Chadwick. Mann's rink had overpowered Goldsmith's rink in the semi-finals while Clarke's rink had comfortably beaten Chadwick's rink.

Keith Banks Memorial Triples
Mike Parsons, Gordon Wilcox & Bill Adcock of Connaught "A" won after beating Jim Prime, Eric Frary & Jane Frary of Hingham "A" 14-2 in the final. In the semi-finals Connaught "A" had beaten Banham's Colin Smith, Shirley Francis & Bill Francis 13-6 while Hingham "A" reached the final with a 9-5 win against Watton's Brenda Draper, Jaci Capell & Alan Baldry.

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