After the first day of finals weekend was washed out, players pulled together to complete all but one of the eight finals scheduled. Several players played two games and the webmaster managed three (with mixed success!)
The closest finish came in the Veterans Cup where Rod Payne, the only defending champion in the finals, just overcame a strong challenge from his Shropshire Pairs partner Ruth Lowe. The competition (which is played 21 up or 21 ends, whichever comes first) saw Ruth leading 18-15 after 20 ends. After Ruth's last wood on the 21st end Rod held "two and a measure", but in view of the dangers in the head Rod elected to trust his eye and not bowl his last wood. This forced a single end "shoot-out" and Rod trailed the jack with his last wood to leave Ruth an "all-or nothing" final bowl which just failed to connect.
In the delayed Mike Caird Cup, Keith Reynard completed a fine first season with the club, beating Ted Matthews in a close finish. The first set started interestingly, with both players picking up a "four" within the first 3 ends. Keith eventually running out an 11-7 winner of the first set. In the second set, Ted started well and lead 5-0 after 3 ends. However a strong comeback by Keith saw him win four ends on the trot to lead 6-5 with three ends to play. Ted then staged a comeback of his own by picking up a "three" and another "four" to win the set 12-6 with an end to spare. The decider was a cagey affair, with neither bowler at their best. Keith won the 1st and 3rd ends to edge the set by 2-1, and with it the trophy.
Club finals results:
Roy Warburton Cup (Mens 4-wood singles)
Winner: George Ballard, R/up: Quentin Smith
Frank Richards Cup (Ladies 4-wood singles)
Winner: Kath Matthews, R/up: Pauline Scott
Cyril Davies Cup (Veterans 4-wood singles)
Winner: Rod Payne, R/up: Ruth Lowe
Nuway Cup (Open 4-wood singles)
Winner: Quentin Smith, R/up: Frank Hill
Tarmac Cup (Handicap 4-wood singles)
Winner: George Chambers, R/up: Quentin Smith
Mike Caird Cup (Open 4-wood, sets)
Winner: Keith Reynard, R/up: Ted Matthews
QRS Cup (Qualifying 4-wood singles)
Winner: Paul Mitchell, R/up: Ted Matthews
Pairs Cup
Winners: Myrrdin Owen & George Ballard, Rs/up: Frances & Frank Hill
(Sept. 2008)
Weather Disrupts Finals Weekend
The inclement "Summer" weather forced the first day of Lilleshall's Finals Weekend to be completely abandoned as the green was deemed too wet for play.
However an early start on the Sunday, and several players agreeing to play two, or even three, matches on the same day all but one competition was wrapped up.
(Sept. 2008)
Lilleshall Winners in Shropshire Finals
Lilleshall players took the honours in two Shropshire Bowling Clubs Association finals on 30 August.
Played at Lilleshall, Keith Reynard beat Mike Bradburn (Telford & Wrekin) in the Mens Singles final and Ruth Lowe and Rod Payne beat another Lilleshall pairing of Silvia Lewis and Dennis Collins in the pairs final. The Ladies final, which would have featured Keith's wife Sandra, was postponed through injury. (August 2008)
Left: Ruth Lowe and Rod Payne with SBCA Competition Secretary Dennis Collins (right)
Right: Keith Reynard with SBCA Competition Secretary Dennis Collins
Pictures by Tony Forrester
Liz, Mike & Quentin Win Borrett Cup
Twenty-seven bowlers competed for the Jack Borrett Rosebowl mixed triples competition on a Lilleshall green heavy and slippery from excessive overnight rain. Indeed only four rinks were available for play and protective mats had to be used at one end.
The awkward number of teams required an innovative format with three groups of three triples, each playing two games of five ends against the other teams in their group. The scoring system awarded points for both games and ends won, and the four teams with highest points then played off two semi-finals and a final, all over six ends.
In the first semi-final George Chambers, Ruth Lowe and Chris Parkin narrowly beat Ted Matthews, Kath Matthews and Themla Stanley, who had been the only unbeaten team to that point. In the second semi-final Liz Caird, Mike Caird and Quentin Smith scored a comfortable win over Bernard Williams, Clare Watton and Grenville Watton.
In the final, Liz, Mike and Quentin opened with a four and a three. This left their opponents too much to do in such a short format game and they ran out comfortable winners for their second win in the competition in three years.
The Borrett Cup is traditionally one of Lilleshall's charity days. Participants' rink fees were added to proceeds from the extensive raffle of donated prizes and Beryl Borrett was able to send over £160 to her chosen charity, the Telford Hospice. Previous Results (August 2008)
Ladies and Gents Win
Our Ladies played a three-rink triples against Crystal on 24 July and came away with a seventeen-point win, 58-41. However that was not the end of the story. Our gentlemen - chivalrous types that they are - provided the transport and also played a three-rink triples, winning by 35 shots. Surprizingly, or perhaps coincidentally, that was the winning margin on the gentlemen's best rink, where Don Cartwright, Peter Attwood and Frank Hill notched up a 36-1 victory. (July 2008)
George Chambers, Peter Preston, Ruth Lowe and
Rod Payne (skip) with SBCA Competition Secretary Dennis Collins (centre)
Lilleshall Retain Shropshire Rinks
Twelve teams from the Shropshire clubs contested the Shropshire BCA Rinks Competition on a hot and sunny day hosted by Telford and Wrekin BC. Telford's home-maintained green played superbly and we even had music from a brass band playing in the adjacent park.
Two groups of six teams first played five league matches of seven ends. The winning teams from the two leagues played off for the trophy and the runners-up in each league played for third-place.
The "numbers" league was won by Lilleshall's George Chambers, Peter Preston, Ruth Lowe and Rod Payne, who went on to win the championship play-off against a rink from St.Michael's. In the third-place playoff another Lilleshall rink were unable to hold off a strong Telford rink, with the result that the three top positions were spread between the three clubs. (July 2008)
Audrey Wins Again!
Audrey Attwood continued her winning streak, this time picking up the National Sports Centre Cup for 2-wood drawn pairs partnering Chris Parkin.
The re-arranged NSC Cup game was played in cool and blustery conditions on 20 July using a league system, as there were insufficient entries for a two-part draw. Each team played every other and Audrey and Chris only lost one game, making them the clear winners. The runner's-up position was taken by Frank Hill and Grenville Watton. (July 2008)
Audrey and Rod Win Bayliss Cup
Twenty bowlers contested the Bayliss Cup (4-wood drawn pairs) on 5th July. Despite early rain the weather was kind, with only occasional showers. The drawn pairs were arranged in two leagues, each pair playing an 8-end match against the other four pairs in their half of the draw. Two unbeaten pairs emerged, so it was Audrey Attwood and Rod Payne who played Chris Nolan and Chris Parkin in the final.
Chris and Chris took a four on the first end of the final (also played over eight ends) and a single saw their lead extended to 5-0. However in the next two ends Audrey and Rod took a four and a two to bring the score to 6-5 in their favour. Three tight ends saw just singles scored, bringing the scores level at 7-7 going into the last end.
Chris & Chris gave away the mat and Audrey trailed the jack to take the early advantage. Though his partner had given them a good second wood, Chris Parkin was forced into playing with weight and managed to push the jack onto one of his woods, with his "toucher" bowl remaining live in the ditch. In a dramatic climax, Rod Payne trailed the jack to the ditch with his last wood, which stayed close enough to the jack to beat the lurking opposition toucher. Though he bowled his last wood, Chris Parkin knew that it was near-impossible to draw the shot, leaving Rod and Audrey winners by one shot.
The win is the second in the competition for Audrey, who previously won in 1996 when paired with Grenville Watton. Rod is making a habit of this ... with his third win in four seasons, having previously won in 1995 with Myrddin Owen and last season with Silvia Lewis. (Previous winners) (July 2008)
Weather Hits Battle of the Sexes - Again
The saga of the 2007 Ladies-v-Gent's match continues. Scheduled in to replace a cancelled fixture on 29th June the heavens duly opened with just a few minutes to start of play. Some hardy souls wanted to play, but the near-unanimous vote called the match off again. (June 2008)
President's Day
President Derek Taylor was delighted with the generosity of members on President's Day, which resulted in over £260 being raised for the County Air Ambulance Service. (June 2008)
Ladies Draw with St.Michael's
Lilleshall ladies drew with St.Michael's in their triples match on 22 May - an 18-12 win by Ruth Lowe's triple offsetting a 16-22 defeat on the other rink. (June 2008)
Ladies Win Triples -v- Telford
Lilleshall ladies scored a stong 68-34 shot win over Telford on 15 May. Two of the three triples posted good wins, which more than compensated for a narrow loss by the third triple. (May 2008)
Narrow Loss in EBA Top Club Comp
The men were unlucky to lose narrowly in their EBA Top Club match at home to Vines Park. Some imaginitive team selections from Captain Rod saw our triple and rink winning, and the two singles just narrowly losing, Rod himself going down by just one shot on the final end of the 2-wood pairs. Those results left the pressure on our pair of Chris Nolan and George Ballard. Having been well down at one point they came back to level, but ended up going into the last end two shots down. With a clear points advantage to Lilleshall a draw would have been enough, but the Vines Park pair held on to give the visitors a 3-2 win. (May 2008)
Pair League Win for Mike & Ruth
The Monday Pairs league finished with a narrow win, on shot difference only, for Ruth Lowe and Mike Caird. They just edged out Silvia Lewis and Paul Mitchell to take the Lewis Cup. (September 2007)
Windsor Trip Cancelled
Lilleshall's problems with cancelled matches continues, with the prestigious away game at Royal Household, Windsor being cancelled. This time, for once, the weather was not to blame, but Windsor Park has closed in order to protect their pedigree cattle from foot and mouth disease. We hope the match can be rearranged in the future. (September 2007)
Finals Weekend
Frank Hill presents Veteran's Cup winner Rod Payne
with a tea-cup, the trophy being inadvertently
unavailable for presentation!
All club finals were completed over a chilly weekend 8-9 September. Results were as follows:
Roy Warburton Cup (Mens 4-wood singles)
Winner: Russell Stevenson, R/up: Mike Caird
Frank Richards Cup (Ladies 4-wood singles)
Winner: Thelma Stanley, R/up: Pauline Scott
Cyril Davies Cup (Veterans 4-wood singles)
Winner: Rod Payne, R/up: Ruth Lowe
Nuway Cup (Open 4-wood singles)
Winner: George Ballard, R/up: Chris Nolan
Tarmac Cup (Handicap 4-wood singles)
Winner: George Ballard, R/up: George Chambers
Mike Caird Cup (Open 4-wood, sets)
Winner: Mike Caird, R/up: Thelma Stanley
QRS Cup (Qualifying 4-wood singles)
Winner: Pauline Scott, R/up: David James
Pairs Cup
Winners: Grenville Watton & Russell Stevenson
Rs/up: David James & Ruth Lowe
(September 2007)
County Success for David
Congratulations to David James on winning the Shropshire Men's Singles competition. (September 2007)
NSC Cup Win for Audrey and George
George Peake and Audrey Attwood emerged victorious in the final of the National Sports Centre Cup (2-wood drawn pairs) on 26 August, beating Frank Hill and Bernard Williams in the final. This is George's first win in the competition, but a second for Audrey, who won in 1997 when paired with Pauline Scott. (August 2007)
Borrett Cup Win for Russell, Frank and Frances
Ten triples took to the green on 19 August to contest the Jack Borrett Cup. The weather was deadful - cold and wet - for the first time in the competition's history. Derek Taylor, Pauline Scott and Emrys Davies won through one of the 4-game pools and Frances Hill, Frank Hill and Russell Stevenson won the other. They contested the final which was resoundingly won by Frances, Frank and Russell. It is the first win in the competition for all three. In our picture, Frank (L), Russell and Frances celebrate in the dry! (August 2007)
Lilleshall wins SBCA Charity Shield
Lilleshall came out on top in the SBCA Charity Shield competition against local rivals Telford and St.Michael's on a rainy 18 August. The competition format pits four rinks from each club against each other in four rounds of 6-end "mini-matches". Three Lilleshall rinks won three out of four and the other two, with the eleven wins enough to see us home to victory. Lilleshall rinks took the top two positions, with Rod Payne's rink top and Quentin Smith's one point behind. (August 2007)
Lilleshall four wins Shropshire Rinks
A Lilleshall rink came out on top in the Shropshire Rinks competition held at Lilleshall on 5 August. David James, Peter Preston, Ruth Lowe and Rod Payne (skip) lost only one game in the round-robin stage of the competition, which was enough to get them into the final, in which they beat a rink from St.Michael's. (August 2007)
Champions Fall
Defending champions have fared badly in the early rounds of the Club competitions - three are already out - Quentin Smith in the Nuway Cup, Kath Matthews in the Cyril Davies Cup and George Ballard in the Mike Caird Cup. Others have games due as the competition timings get squeezed by the ongoing poor weather. (July 2007)
Bayliss Cup Win for Silvia & Rod
Good weather (for a change) greeted the 24 bowlers who competed for the Jack Bayliss Cup (4-wood drawn pairs). Each pair played five matches of seven ends in a round-robin competition. Silvia Lewis and Rod Payne topped one pool, while Audrey Attwood and Grenville Watton topped the other, and they played out the closely-fought final. The score was all-square going into the last end, but Silvia and Rod picked up a five to finish 11-6. The win was Silvia's first in the competition, while Rod had won previously in 2005. Our picture shows Rod and Silvia receiving the Bayliss Cup from President Pauline Scott (left). (July 2007)
Lilleshall Ladies Reach Leamington!
Lilleshall Ladies Rink has reached the final of the Worcester Ladies Rink competition, which guarantees them a place at the National finals at Leamington Spa. Ladies' Captain, Silvia Lewis, said she was delighted with the success and extremely proud of her team (Silvia Lewis, Frances Hill, Kath Matthews and Thelma Stanley, with reserve Liz Caird) who achieved this honour for the first time in both her Captaincy year and the Club's 25th Anniversary Year. (June 2007)
Shrewsbury Indoor Coming On
The Shrewsbury Indoor Bowling Centre is under construction. Lilleshall's Peter Attwood, who has had a major hand in getting the project under way, was present at the recent sod-cutting ceremony. You can view construction progress at the Shrewsbury Council's website photo diary ... which is expected to be updated monthly. (opens in new window) (June 2007)
Rod & Mike Through Two EBA Rounds
Rod Payne and Mike Caird have progressed to the second round proper of the EBA 55-and-over pairs competition, beating B.Price & R.Grainger (Oldington BC) 20-19 in the preliminary round and D.Wilde & T.Donsy (Worcester BC) 22-11 in the first round. (June 2007)
Vernon Turner Competition Win
Lilleshall men continued their good form with a strong performance away at Bredon to take them into a second-round home tie against Oldington. All four Lilleshall rinks recorded wins in the 91 - 55 victory. Sadly they could not continue their good form, losing at home to Oldington in the second round. (May 2007)
EBA Double-Rinks Win
Lilleshall won their first EBA Double-rinks match against Oldington by 5 shots.
Grenville Watton, Frank Hill, Paul Mitchell and Dennis Collins won by 2 and David James, Mike Caird, George Ballard and Rod Payne won by 3.
The win takes them into a second round against Worcester BC (away) on Friday 25 May. (May 2007)
Triples Win
Lilleshall recorded a good 86-77 win over Telford in the Shropshire BCA Triples league, taking 14 of the 18 points available. (May 2007)
Yellows Record First Win
Lilleshall recorded their first win in the new gold (yellow) shirts with an emphatic 62 shot victory over Welshpool. This fixture is one of the longest-standing for Lilleshall and is always greatly enjoyed. We rarely get a result like this though! (Apr. 2007)
New Umpire's Kit
We now have a complete umpire's kit thanks to a donation from Club Coach Dennis Collins. The kit includes various measures, calipers, wedges and even feeler gauges ... as if we ever get that close! (Apr 2007)
Coaching Certificate for Kath
Club Secretary Kath Matthews has successfully passed the Level 1 Coaching course. She was presented with her certificate by Club Coach Dennis Collins at the Club AGM.
Final Final!
The remaining Club final was played on Sunday 17 September when Emrys Davies and Derek Taylor took on the surprize pairing of Thelma Stanley and Don Cartwright, who had only teamed up when illness prevented Thelma's intended partner, Ted Matthews, from competing.
Emrys and Derek started well, building a 13-0 lead and held on comfortably despite a spirited reply from their opponents Club Honours Club Competitions (Sep 2006)
Finals Weekend
A second day of superb weather saw four further trophies contested.
In the Roy Warburton Cup (Men's Open) Russell Stevenson defeated reigning champion Rod Payne and in the Frank Richards Cup (Ladies Open) Ladies Captain Frances Hill defeated Joan Owen. New member George Ballard completed an impressive triple, contesting two further trophies. He was beaten 21 -14 in the Nuway Cup (4-wood Open) by Quentin Smith, but was obviously spurred into action as he subsequently scored a comfortable win over Mike Caird in the Tarmac Cup (4-wood handicap) Club Honours Club Competitions (Sep 2006)
Finals Weekend Underway
Lilleshall Finals weekend got underway on 9 September with three trophies contested.
In the Cyril Davies Cup (Veterans) Club Secretary Kath Matthews wore down obstinate resistance from the defending champion, Club Captain Frank Hill, to win 19-13 with one end to play. In the Mike Caird Cup (4-wood, sets) new member George Ballard completed his run of success over established Club members with a 2-0 win over Mryddin Owen. In the QRS Construction Cup (4-wood, qualifying) Quentin Smith scored a comfortable 21-6 victory over Derek Taylor. (Sep 2006)
Ruth is Shropshire Ladies Champion
Ruth Lowe took the Shropshire Ladies Singles title in a thrilling game against another top Lilleshall lady, Thelma Stanley. Lilleshall also contested the Men's Singles, but Mike Caird lost to Mike Bradburn of Telford & Wrekin BC.Details (Sep 2006)
Ladies -v- Gentlemen
Always one of Lilleshall's most hotly contested matches, the Ladies -v- Gentlemen match was held on 27 August. Rivalry was made more intense by the respective team Captains, Frank and Frances Hill, being husband and wife! Two rinks and two triples from each side contested the match which resulted in a win for the Gentlemen by a modest shot difference. Our photo (right) shows Frances presenting Frank with the Perpetual Challenge trophy. Ladies-v-Gents Matches (Aug 2006)
LHBC take on Centre
Monday 21 August saw Lilleshall Hall Bowls Club take on a team from the Lilleshall Sports Centre. A fun evening was enjoyed by all, fortified by an excellent buffet laid on by the LHBC ladies. Discretely, the result was not recorded. (Aug 2006)
Jack Borrett Cup Winners
A chilly August day saw seven triples teams compete for the Jack Borrett mixed triples cup. Normally played over two leagues with a final for the league winners, the sightly reduced entry saw a single league with every team pitted against each other. No team came through unbeaten, but Liz Caird (lead), Mike Caird & Quentin Smith (skip) lost only one game to emerge winners, with Audrey Attwood (lead), Peter Attwood and Rod Payne (skip) - last year's winners - in second place. (Aug. 2006)
The win was a second success for the team this year - Mike and Liz having previously won the NSC Cup (2-wood pairs) and Quentin having partnered Chris Nolan to win the Jack Bayliss Cup (4-wood pairs).
Together with President's Day, the Borrett Cup is traditionally Lilleshall's charity event, and £112 was raised for the Telford Hospice. President Pauline Scott presented the trophy on behalf of Beryl Borrett. (Aug. 2006)
Lilleshall Takes Top Two Places in Shropshire Rinks Competition
Lilleshall took the top two places in the Shropshire Rinks competition held at St.Michael's (Shrewsbury) on 29 July.
In the final, over eight ends, Audrey Attwood (lead), Dennis Blake (2), Quentin Smith (3) and Peter Attwood (skip) narrowly beat Paul Mitchell (lead), Silvia Lewis (2), George Peake (3) and Dennis Collins (skip) by six shots to five. Both teams had previously won their halves of the draw in round-robin matches, also of eight ends, against five other teams. (July. 2006)
Lilleshall's Friends make Champion of Champions Final
Whilst not having a representative in the Worcester Champion of Champions final Lilleshall are delighted that two of our regular opponents in friendly matches are to contest the final. John Attwood from Crystal, who put out our own champion Rod Payne in an earlier round, takes on Telford's Mike Hubbard, well-known to many Lilleshall members and who has joined us on tour in the past.
Mike has won the trophy once before, but a win would be a first for Crystal. Our best wishes for a well-fought contest go to both contestants. (July. 2006) Update: congratulations to John Attwood on a 21-20 win. (July. 2006)
Lilleshall's Unlucky Streak Continues
Following Rod Payne's 20-21 defeat in the Champion-of-Champions and the Mens' Four Rinks losing by one shot in the Vernon Turner competition Lilleshall's unlucky streak in Worcester competitions continued with the Ladies Double Rinks losing by just two shots to Overbury.
On a breezy and warm morning Lilleshall dropped behind and were trailing 20-37 after ten ends. However Audrey Attwood, Frances Hill, Pauline Scott and Skip Ruth Lowe piled on the pressure and picked up 12 shots without reply by the 15th end. Silvia Lewis, Sylvia Richards, Kath Matthews and Skip Thelma Stanley also had their best quarter, picking up 5 shots. They maintained pressure, and picked up three shots on the last end, but were not quite able to overcome their opponents.
Final score: Lilleshall 37, Overbury 39 Report: Frank Hill (July. 2006)
Chris Nolan (left) & Quentin Smith receive
the trophy from President Pauline Scott
Chris & Quentin win Jack Bayliss Cup
22 bowlers competed for the Jack Bayliss, 4-wood drawn pairs competition. After a round-robin of four or five 8-end matches, depending on the half of the draw, the final was played out between David James and Peter Attwood (P5, W4, L1) and Chris Nolan and Quentin Smith (P4, W4). This was the second final for Chris and Peter as they had been paired together and reached the final of the NSC Cup a few weeks earlier.
In the final, Chris & Quentin pulled away to lead 5-0 after three ends, with Peter having to save shots to keep the score down to that. Peter and David fought back, taking a single and double to go into end 6 3-5 down. They were holding until, with his last wood, Quentin drew off the shot wood to take a two. David and Peter came back with a two to go into the final end just two shots down. Chris and Quentin were holding a comfortable three, which forced Peter into aggressive shots. He trailed the jack with his penultimate wood and was unlucky to finish still one down. Quentin played a positional wood and Peter was unable to negotiate the melee of woods in front of the shot to make any difference, the match finishing 8-5 to Chris and Quentin.
This is the first win in the competition for both bowlers. Report: Mike Caird (July. 2006)
Tigers Win 2, Lose 2 on tour
Lilleshall won two of their four tour matches (the fifth being rained off), but finished up overall with a +34 shot difference Details (July. 2006)
Men Lose Out in Close Vernon Turner Game
Lilleshall's mens' four-rinks team failed to make it to the semi-final of the Wocester BA tournament losing by a single shot to Worcester Brotherhood. Grenville Watton's rink posted a +12 shot difference, but this was offset by two losses of -4 and -8. That put the presure on the last rink which, despite going into the last end two up dropped a three, with the Brotherhood skip drawing the winning shot with the last wood of the match. (July. 2006)
Rod Narrowly beaten
In a close-fought game, Rod Payne lost 20-21 to John Attwood of Crystal in the Worcester Champion of Champions competition (June. 2006)
Liz & Mike take NSC Cup
Twenty-four bowlers took to the green on 24 June for the NSC Cup 2-wood drawn pairs competition. The random draw brought together Mike & Liz Caird who powered through their half of the draw losing just one of their five matches. In the other half of the draw Peter Attwood and Chris Nolan won through with a P5, W3, D1, L1, record. The final, over 10 ends, was dominated by impressive leading from Liz and the pair seemed destined for victory when, in the 6th end, Mike ditched the jack to score a three and take them into a 9-1 lead. Peter and Chris battled on, Peter saving several shots, but at 3-11 down and two ends to play only two "full-houses" would do and on the ninth end Mike drew the shot with his last wood to secure victory. Mike has won the NSC Cup once before, in 2003, partnering Pauline Scott. The win delighted the members present as it sees Liz's name onto the honours board for the first time (June. 2006)
President's Day Raises £235
Lilleshall President, Pauline Scott, was delighted with the support from members on President's Day. A total of £235 was raised for the Severn Hospice Telford Appeal (June. 2006)
Rod Payne Going Strong in C. of C.
Lilleshall's 2005 Men's Champion, Rod Payne, has fought through to the quarter finals of the Worcester "Champion of Champions" competition. His next opponent will be from either Littleton or old foes Crystal. Mike Hubbard, from Telford & Wrekin, has also reached the same stage and is in the opposite half of the draw from Rod. We wish them both well for the next round. (Worcester BA) (June. 2006)
Lilleshall Men Into 3rd Round of Vernon Turner
Lilleshall Mens' 4-rinks team did Cyril Davies proud (see below) by progressing to the third round of the Worcester Vernon Turner competition with an 18 shot win over Crystal, who had previously knocked out a strong Chester Road team. Winning rinks were two-a-piece, but a very strong showing by Myrddin Owen, Colin Smith, Frank Hill and Dennis Collins ensured a positive Lilleshall points total. We await news of our next opponents - regular foes Worcester Brotherhood or Oldington. (June. 2006)
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Founder Watches Over the Green
Club founder, Cyril Davies, will watch over the green after his ashes were scattered under the trees beside the green. Cyril's widow, Phyllis, daughter Debbie and son-in-law Neil were joined by around 20 officers and members of the club for the simple ceremony on Wednesday 24th May. Despite terrible weather in the days, and even hours, beforehand, the sun broke though to bless the occasion. (May. 2006) Tribute to Cyril Davies
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10 Point gain in first Shropshire Triples
Lilleshall started well in the Shropshire Triples competition with a 14 - 4 points win over Telford & Wrekin. Two triples won, two more drew and just one lost, with a match score of 82-73 (+9). (May. 2006)
Vernon-Turner: First Round Walk-Over
Lilleshall's men progress to the second round of the Worcester 4-rinks competition as first-round opponents Inkberrow are unable to field a team. Our opponents will be known after the first round matches are completed on 21 May. As first team out of the hat, Lilleshall have home matches through to the neutral green stages. (May. 2006)
Still unbeaten on grass!
Lilleshall remain undefeated on grass having notched another away win, against Tamworth, since the season opened. The "All-Weather" artificial surface at Erdington Court lived up to its name, but a good showing by Lilleshall's five triples saw them go down by only 12 shots. (May. 2006)
Lilleshall unbeaten in opening two matches
Following their tied opening match against St.Michael's last week Lilleshall scored an excellent 118-103 away win at tough opponents Welshpool. Lilleshall posted four winning rinks and one tied rink in the match - don't ask Grenville about the losing rink! (Apr. 2006)
President Pauline Scott presents the pairs shield to Grenville Watton (centre) and Russell Stevenson |
Russell & Grenville retain club pairs trophy
Grenville Watton and Russell Stevenson retained their Club pairs trophy in the delayed 2005 Pairs final played on 30 April. Their match against Mike Caird and Quentin Smith was closely fought at the start, with scores 6-6 after eight ends. However a four on the ninth end saw them pull ahead. Russell twice ditched the jack to deny Mike and Quentin shots, once overturning a holding of seven, and Grenville and Russell closed out for a 16-11 win. (Apr. 2006)
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Lilleshall draw opening match
It was honours-even in Lilleshall's opening match away at arch rivals St.Michael's (Shrewsbury). The 6-triple match finished 98-98 despite four winning rinks for St.Michael's. Lilleshall's top triple of George Chambers, Brian Jones and Quentin Smith posted Lilleshall's best score with a 25-8 win. (Apr. 2006)
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President Den
Lilleshall Coach Dennis Collins has taken up his position as President of Tamworth Indoor Bowls Club for the 2005-2006 season. (Nov. 2005)
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Double for Thelma & David
Congratulations to Thelma Stanley and David James on winning the Shropshire Ladies and Men's Singles competitions at Lilleshall on 3 September. Thelma overcame stiff opposition from Lilleshall Ladies Captain Frances Hill, while David beat Telford's Mike Hubbard. (Sep. 2005)
Lilleshall Win SBCA Charity Shield
Lilleshall retained the SBCA Charity Shield on a sunny afternoon on their home green. Over £300 was raised for the Newport Cricket Club Sri Lanka Tsunami Relief Appeal Fund. Report & Photos (Aug. 2005)
Myrddin & Rod Win Jack Bayliss Cup
Twenty four members enjoyed a day of bowling for the Jack Bayliss Cup (4-wood drawn pairs). The day consisted of a league format with each pair playing the five other pairs in its group over eight ends.
The closely contested "letters" pool saw three pairs winning four of five matches, but Thelma Stanley and Geoff Brittland won through on superior shot difference. The result in the "number" pool was more clear cut, with Myrddin Owen and Rod Payne posting the only unbeaten record.
The final, also over eight ends, saw the lead change several times. Rod and Myrddin pulled away to lead 3-0, but Geoff and Thelma fought back to lead 5-3 after five ends, Thelma twice turning the end round with her last wood. However a five for Myrddin and Rod on end six, followed by a single, left them comfortably 9-5 up going into the last end and able to play defensively to drop just a single to finish 9-6 winners - a first win for both players in this competition. Previous winners (Aug. 2005)
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From Left: Jack Bayliss Cup winners Rod Payne & Myrddin Owen with runners-up Thelma Stanley and Geoff Brittland |
Ladies Out of Double Rinks
Lilleshall Ladies double rinks team were beaten by a strong and on-form Hewell team on 17 July. Both rinks were out-gunned in the 53-12 defeat. (Jul. 2005)
Ted & Dennis Win NSC Cup
Twenty-four members enjoyed an extremely hot day of bowling contesting the National Sports Centre cup (2-wood drawn pairs). Recent maintenance to the green ensured excellent conditions and after five rounds of close competitive bowling Dennis Blake and Ted Matthews topped the 'letters' pool and Frances Hill and George Chambers topped the 'numbers'. The final, over twelve ends, saw Ted and Dennis build up a substantial 7-1 lead which they consolidated to win 12-2 with one end still to play. The result was particualrly satisfying for Ted, who was a losing finalist last year. Ted is a previous winner of the NSC cup, in 2002, while Dennis adds his name to the trophy for the first time. Previous Winners (July 2005)
Record Sum Raised at President's Day
President George Peake was absolutely delighted at the £256 raised by club members at President's Day on 30 June. The amount, believed to be the highest total raised, was donated to the Air Ambulance (see photo) (May. 2005)
Narrow Loss in First Game
The opening 'friendly' (but very competitive) match was against our old rivals St.Michaels. Both sides had good and bad scores across the six triples, but on totting-up St.Michael's came away with the win by a solitary shot. Lilleshall's best triple was Ros England, Sylvia Richards and Frank Hill. (Apr. 2005)
2005 Outdoor Season Opens
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President George Peake 'Bowls Off' to start the season ... was it THAT sunny George? |
The Club's 2005 season opened on April 16 with fish and chips followed by a 'Spider' for a bottle of whisky (won by David James) and an informal bowling session. Frank & Frances Hill's spicy punch kept out the cold and a raffle and tombola ensured members were parted from their money in support of the club and tour funds. It was particularly pleasing to see Paul Mitchell and Emrys Davies in good spirits following serious illness. (Apr. 2005)
Club Enjoys Annual Dinner
Members and partners enjoyed the Club's Annual Dinner at Lilleshall Hall's Chapters Restaurant on December 4. After the dinner the trophies for the year were awarded. Club Captain Grenville Watton announced that the recipient of the Captain's award for 2004 was Silvia Lewis and tour organiser Sylvia Richards presented the Cyril Davies Tour Trophy for 2004 to Alan Palmer. (Dec. 2004)
Lilleshall win SBCA Charity Shield
Teams of four rinks from each of the three Shropshire clubs fought out the Charity Shield competition at St.Michael's BC (Shrewsbury). Run on a 4 x 6 ends league basis, Lilleshall took a narrow lead by half time and held on to win. The award for best rink of the day went to Lilleshall's Silvia Lewis, Liz Caird, Quentin Smith & Dennis Collins. Most importantly, over £250 was raised for the Shropshire and Mid-Wales Hospice. (Aug. 2004)
David James, George Chambers & Ruth Lowe win Jack Borrett Cup
Ten teams contested the Jack Borrett mixed triples competition on a sunny afternoon. Five rounds of league matches (8 ends) saw holders Derek Taylor, Pauline Scott and Emrys Davies come through the a tight "numbers" pool on shot difference alone, while David, George and Ruth took the "letters" pool by a few points.
The final, also over eight ends, saw Derek, Pauline and Emrys run up a lead, which was clawed back to leave the teams at five all and force an extra end. The champions were holding two shots and had well placed defensive woods, but Ruth's last wood drew off the shot wood to take a single and the match. Previous Winners (Aug. 2004)
Frank Hill (centre) and David James (right) receive the Jack Bayliss Cup from President George Peake |
David James & Frank Hill win Jack Bayliss Cup
Twenty-eight members competed in the Jack Bayliss Cup drawn 4-wood pairs competition on 7 August. The draw produced several fancied pairings, including the winners from 2002, Emrys Davies and Ted Matthews. Six league-style matches of six ends each saw Emrys and Ted qualifying for the final from the "numbers" pool and David and Frank from the "letters".
The final, also played over six ends, was closely fought, with the jack twice being dispatched to the ditch. Needing five shots for a draw on the last end Ted and Emrys only managed three, leaving David and Frank winners by two shots. This was Frank's first win in the competition, whilst David has two previous wins. Previous Winners (Aug. 2004)
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Ladies Win Through to Semi-Final of Worcester Double Rinks
Lilleshall ladies won a tight match against Worcester Ladies, played at Cripplegate, by just two shots in the Worcester Double-Rinks competition. The win saw them travel to Gilt Edge for the semi-final match where, despite one winning rink, they lost on aggregate score. (Aug. 2004)
Ladies Home Win over Telford
Lilleshall ladies recorded a 12-shot win over Telford on 6 August. (Aug. 2004)
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Lilleshall Hosts Inland Revenue Competition
Lilleshall was the venue for the Inland Revenue Sports Association West Midlands bowls championship on Friday 16 July, with nine bowlers competing for places in the National final. Winner on the day was Paul Finch from Birmingham Rowheath BC - seen here receiving his award from organiser (and Lilleshall member) Mike Caird. (Jul. 2004) |
Exiting Final in NSC Cup competition
A blazing sunny day saw 24 bowlers contest the National Sports Centre Cup for 2-wood drawn pairs. A "league" series of five games of 12 ends saw Frank Hill and Ted Matthews come through the "letters" pool and Beryl Borrett and Quentin Smith come through the "numbers". In the final, also over 12 ends, Beryl and Quentin eased out to a 3-2 lead after five ends and then took a four to lead 7-2 at the half-way mark. However, this prompted a spirited fight back from Frank and Ted who not only made up the deficit, but pulled away to lead 11-7 with two ends to play. A three for Beryl and Quentin on the eleventh end set up a tense final end, in which they managed a single to bring the scores level and force an extra end.
The final end was nail-biting, with the shot changing several times. Quentin drew a toucher with his last wood, leaving Frank one wood to save the situation. Frank bowled a marvellous pressure wood which moved both the shot wood and the jack but failed to take the shot - leaving Beryl and Quentin winners by the smallest of margins.
The result sees Beryl's name on the trophy for the second time - she last won 10 years ago, in 1994, when partnered by Dennis Jones. Previous Winners (Jun. 2004)
Ladies Lose Out to Strong St.Michael's Team
One June 9th, the Ladies fielded four triples against old rivals St.Michaels. Rink honours were even, with two wins and two losses, but the overall points score saw a five shot loss 57-62. (Jun. 2004)
Last End Success in Tight Vernon Turner Game
The club men recorded an historic win over Bank House in the first round of the Vernon Turner 4-rink competition. A sunny morning saw an intensly fought game run down to the wire over the team that beat Lilleshall in a previous Vernon Turner semi-final. An earlier killed end meant that the other rinks had finished as our last four went into their final end with Lilleshall just one shot up in the match. An exceptional wood from No.2 Colin Smith put Bank House under pressure and the Lilleshall rink defended to take three shots, giving an overall four-shots victory. (June 2004)
President's Day
George Peake was delighted with the £225 total raised by members on President's Day 31 May. The profits from game fees and a huge tombola were donated to the Diabetic Association. (May 2004)
Record Home Win
The Club posted it's highest ever winning margin over the May Bank Holiday weekend with a 197-44 home win against Llansantffraid. (May 2004)
The Rinks were:
David James, Colin Smith, Sylvia Richards, Ruth Lowe - won 35-8
Clare Watton, Kath James, Frank Hill, Rod Payne - won 23-10
Roz England, John Francis, Thelma Stanley, Emrys Davies - won 44-6
Beryl Borrett, Gordon England, Pauline Scott, Grenville Watton - won 37-7
Margaret Jones, David Herrick, Bryan Jones, Dennis Blake - won 27-6
Sylvia Lewis, Terry Billington, Frances Hill, George Peake - won 31-7
Valentine's Day Wedding for Clare & Grenville
Fixture Secretary Clare Tindall and Club Captain Grenville Watton tied the knot at a private ceremony at Blackpool Registry Office on St. Valentine's Day 2004. Details (Feb. 2004)
New Officers Appointed
A new executive committee were appointed at the AGM on 10 November. Chairman Frank Hill, Captain Grenville Watton, Lady Captain Ruth Lowe and Fixture Secretary Clare Tindall continue in post, but for the rest of the positions it was all change. Frank Hill thanked outgoing President Sylvia Richards, Secretary Mike Caird and Treasurer Peter Preston for all their work on behalf of the club, together with ordinary committee members who were not stading for re-election. The Club welcomed George Peake, Marion Cutmore and Kath Matthews as President, Treasurer and Secretary respectively. Emrys Davies supports Grenville as Vice-Captain. Details (Nov. 2003)
Three Wins for Emyrs
Former captain Emrys Davies is celebrating three victories in club competitions, having won all three open club competitions. He also reached the final of the Mens Singles, losing to newcomer Rod Payne in an excellent match. Emrys's achievement is not unique however - Jim Brown won the "big three" (mens, open & handicap) in 1991. Finals Day Report | Club Honours (Sept. 2003)
Jack Borrett Triples Competition
Beryl Borrett presents the trophy
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Ten triples contested the Jack Borrett mixed triples competition on 31 August. Four rounds of six ends each against the other triples in their half of the draw resulted in wins for Audrey Attwood, Peter Attwood and Rod Payne and for Derek Taylor, Pauline Scott and Emrys Davies. These teams contested the final, also over six ends, resulting in a 7-1 win for Derek, Pauline and Emrys - though the score does not reflect the fine bowling by both sides. An extensive raffle on the day raised a sizeable sum for a local hospice and the win enabled Emrys to add his name to one of the few pieces of Club silverware he has not already won! Previous Results (Aug. 2003)
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4-Wood Pairs Champions
Fourteen pairs contested the Jack Bayliss Cup competition for 4-wood pairs. The draw brought together several strong pairings who battled out the day in six 6-end matches. The winners of each pool met in the 6-end final, which saw Margaret Jones and Grenville Watton beating Kath Matthews and Peter Preston - Margaret's third win in the competition. Previous Results (Jul. 2003)
Vernon Turner Defeat
The Club mens' run in the Vernon Turner 4-rinks competition came to an end on 13 July at the hands of Broadway BC. The team did well, posting three winning rinks, but unfortunately a heavy loss on the fourth rink left the visitors with a win to take them into the Semi-Final. Results (Jul. 2003)
President's Day Success
President Sylvia Richards is delighted at the total raised for Breast Cancer Awareness. Challenged to raise £100 the Club raised £275 despite the day clashing with the Wimbledon Ladies final! Report (Jul. 2003)
Another Vernon Turner Win !
The Club men won a well-fought away game against a strong Brintons team to progress to the third round of the Worcestershire BA mens 4 rinks competition by 12 shots. Three rinks had winning scores and Dennis Collins (skip) and George Peake (3) fought a valiant rear-guard action against a strong rink to finish just three shots down after 20 ends, by which time Lilleshall's lead was unassailable. Results (Jun. 2003)
NSC Cup Win for Mike & Pauline
An enjoyable day of bowling in bright sunshine culminated in an excellent final for the National Sports Centre Cup for 2-wood pairs. The random draw brought together the former regular pairing of Pauline Scott & Mike Caird who narrowly beat Frances Hill and Emrys Davies 9-7 in the final. This marked a fourth win in the competition for Pauline. Previous Results (Jun. 2003)
Vernon Turner Win
The Club men won a tight home game against Aston Summerville to progress to the second round of the Worcestershire BA mens 4 rinks competition by 7 shots - despite lacking Club singles champion Emrys Davies. Results (Jun. 2003)
Champions March into 2nd Round
Club singles champions Emrys Davies and Kath Matthews have both won first round matches in the Worcestershire BA Champion of Champions competitions. Worcs BA website (Jun. 2003)
Good Home Start
The Club relished its return to its home green (after a wait for the new turf on the green edges to get established) with two good wins against Black Country & Crystal. Results (May 2003)
Andy's Army Take Indoor Title
After winning the late session league, Andy's Army won the overall Indoor Title beating the Early Session champions Tickers in a thrilling final. Details (Apr.2003)
Presentation to Mark Club's 20 Years
At the 2002 Annual Dinner the Club presented a framed picture of the green and pavillion to founder Cyril Davies to mark the first 20 years of the Club. Picture (Dec.2002)
New Tour Trophy
Club founder Cyril Davies has generously donated a new trophy for club tours. Details (Dec.2002)
New Membership Class
The 2002 AGM approved the establishment of a new membership class. "Social Membership" is designed for members previously active in outdoor bowling, but who are no longer able to participate in organised club bowling activities, to retain membership for social events and "roll-ups". Contact the Committee for further details. (Nov.2002)
Tour 2003
The 2003 Tour is from 23-27 June 2003 and is to Aberavon, South Wales. (Match schedule)
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