The very successful Open Evening held at Avon Bowls Club in May was helped, not only by the support of members and an encouraging number of prospective new players, but by glorious weather.
Some were returning to the game after many years absence while others were raw beginners, but everyone enjoyed the evening, the refreshments and the warmth of the welcome. It is hoped that those who join the Club will have happy memories of the occasion.
On Sunday 31st May, the weather although dry was not exactly summery, but it did not deter the intrepid team travelling by coach to Pontyclun in South Wales for the Annual Cup Match.
With a total of 119 points to 92, four of the six rinks recording a win, the score was immaterial, as the end result – to the delight of the visiting team but less so the hosts – was that Avon retained the Trophy for the second year in succession.
The Pontyclun Cup (originally obtained from Leekes at Llantryssant) has been competed for since 1992, originally only by gentlemen players, but when Leekes came to Melksham in 1995 with a staff member from Pontyclun the ladies joined in.
There have been 21 meetings between the teams, and including this year Avon have won the Cup 10 times against Pontyclun’s 11, so next year will present a real challenge!
Many Clubs find it difficult getting enough players to honour their regular commitments, but Avon prides itself, as does Pontyclun on having no problem for this fixture as the rush to sign up when the list appears might be described as unseemly – in the nicest possible way! The weather is usually kind, it’s a great day out and there’s no drink/drive problem for the visiting teams!
Congratulations go to Captains Colin Easton and Gill Moxon and all participating members of the Avon Club’s team.
The next big event at the Club is a Celebrity Match to be held on Sunday 26th July, plans for which are now being formulated.
Submitted by Pauline Baker, Publicity Officer
