“Sunday 5th June turned out to a day of both excitement and sadness for Avon Bowls Club; excitement that it was the annual cup match between the club and Pontyclun in South Wales and sadness that, sorry to say, we lost the cup,” reports Pauline Baker, publicity officer for Avon Bowls Club.
“Following lunch at the Assembly Hall, the two teams returned to the Club House ready to begin playing and to both our horror and amazement were shocked to see black smoke issuing from the roof of Melksham and Beanacre Cricket Pavilion which quickly worsened but with the prompt arrival of the Fire Brigade the situation was soon under control.
“Avon Bowls Club members and their guests would like to offer sympathy for the Cricket Club’s loss, and hope their members will be able to continue playing without too many problems for the remainder of the season.
“However, then the question arose – to play or not to play, but, as followers of Facebook will know, having been assured that there was no imminent danger to Avon Bowls premises or players, it was decided to go ahead with the match as planned.
“The game was thoroughly enjoyed by hosts and visitors alike, and following a splendid tea Pontyclun were delighted to be able to take the cup back across the bridge for the first time in three years, although by a very narrow margin.
“Thank you Pontyclun, but remember, you are only minding it for the next twelve months! We will be back!”
