Lilleshall bowlers took to the green in better than forecast weather to contest the first day of finals. In the morning, the pairs competitions was decided with John Harris and Colin Robinson taking on Quentin Smith and Keith Reynard. John and Colin started solidly, to lead 7-3, but Quentin and Keith then woke up and lodged 16 unanswered points to lead 19-7. Shots were traded, but with ends running out John and Colin couldn't make up the deficit, Quentin and Keith running out comfortable winners.

In the afternoon, three finals were contested, both Keith and Quentin appearing for the second time. Quentin faced the daunting challenge of playing our Worthing finallist, Mike Hubbard - who had (quite reasonably) left his National Finals stickers on his woods! Quentin started like a train with two threes, with the advantage of having played in the morning, and led 7-0. Mike then got into his stride and every shot was closely contested. Mike had some bad luck, especially one outrageous cannon from Quentin which not only took the shot but added a second to add insult to injury. At several points the scores were level, but each time Quentin just edged ahead, eventually to lead 18-14. However leads are never 'comfortable' against Mike, and while Quentin picked up a single Mike replied with a two. At 19-16 Quentin, holding one and with the last wood to play, drew the second needed to win the match.

In the other finals, Ruth Lowe beat Rod Payne in the Veterans Singles, while Frances Hill beat Keith Reynard in the Tarmac Cup (Handicap singles). Frances's path to the victory was most impressive. Playing off a handicap of just a single stroke she beat Mike Hubbard, Quentin Smith and finally Keith to see off the cream of the gentlemen bowlers! Fuller match reports will follow when the webmaster receives them ... he was somewhat busy during the day! (September 2013)

FORMER WORLD CHAMPION ON OUR GREEN!

Lilleshall's green was graced by former Ladies' World Matchplay Champion and Commonwealth Games Silver Medalist Ceri-Ann Davies on Sunday 25th. Ceri-Ann now works with Archery GB, based at Lilleshall, and brought a party of young archers from the Archery Academy 2013 to the club for a fun afternoon of bowling as they came to the end of their two-year development programme. Club members turned out to set up the rinks and prepare refreshments and a good time was had by all. Mike Caird's photos show the afternoon in progress, and Ceri-Ann making a presentation to Club Secretary Liz Caird. (August 2013)

Mike Hubbard reaches National Finals

For the first time (we believe), Lilleshall Hall BC had a player competing at the National Finals at Worthing. Our Mens Singles Champion, Mike Hubbard, won through five rounds of the National Champion of Champions competition to reach the last 16 and contested the finals on 15 and 16 August.

Naturally the Club was delighted and wished Mike all the best for the big event. Unfortunately Mike was was unable to progress further in the competition, losing 11-21 to Middleton Cup player David Henning from Sevenoaks BC, Kent. However, simply reaching Worthing is a fantastic achievement which should serve to inspire our Club members for the future. (August 2013)

Details of the regional rounds and results | The draw/results for the final rounds.

 

 

Jack Borrett Rosebowl

A very disappointing turnout of just four triples contested the Jack Borrett Cup mixed triples competition on 17 August. With so few teams a round-robin format with each team playing the other three over eight ends was possible. After two matches it was anyone's game, with all four teams having won one and lost one. The winners of the final games were therefore destined to be winners and runners-up in the competition. Runners up were Don Cartwright, Alison and John Harris, but storming to a 10-shot win in the last game were Quentin Smith, Sheila Simcoe and Rod Payne. The Borrett Cup day is traditionally a charity fundraising event and despite the small numbers every effort was made to extract cash from the players. This included competition fees, a raffle and even an auction of garden produce. In view of the small numbers, the funds raised were rolled over to be added to President's Day, when further extortion will also raise money for the Telford Hospice. (August 2013)

Jack Bayliss Cup

A slightly disappointing turnout of just six pairs contested the Jack Bayliss Cup 4-wood drawn pairs competition on 27 July. The teams were set into two mini-leagues with each team playing their two opponents over eight ends. The winners of each league then contested the final, also over eight ends. The weather started hot and dry, with two of the gentlemen sporting shorts, but gradually turned and the final was played in warm drizzle! Thelma Stanley and Rod Payne played Ruth Lowe and Quentin Smith in the final. Despite solid play from Rod and Thelma, Ruth and Quentin built up a lead and in the seventh end with shots against Rod was looking for a "magic" shot to reduce the deficit. He neatly sprang the jack, but unluckily it finished alongside opposition bowls and the two shots gave Ruth and Quentin an unassailable lead. The players shook hands and retreated from the steadily increasing rain. (July 2013)

SBCA Charity Shield

The Charity Shield was played on 21 July in good spirit and excellent weather. Everyone enjoyed wonderful hospitality at St Michael's, but unfortunately Lilleshall came third in the competition, despite some very close matches. St Michael's won again, with 15 points to Telford's 12 and LHBC's 9. Most importantly, a lot of money was raised for the chosen charity - the Air Ambulance. (July 2013)

Area Final for Mike

Mike Hubbard continued his excellent progress in the National Champion of Champions competition, with a comfortable win over Ian Curtis of Olveston BC in the Regional final. Around 20 club members turned out to support the players and enjoyed the fantastic weather. Mike now progresses to the National Finals at Worthing on the 15 and 16 August. (July 2013)

Regional Final for Mike

Congratulations to Mike Hubbard on reaching the Regional Final of the National Champion of Champions competition, where he will play Ian Curtis of Olveston BC (Gloucestershire) at Lilleshall. The match had been arranged for 4pm on Saturday 20 July ... please come along and support Mike. Regional draw and results (July 2013)

Ladies Plate and Gentlemen's Plate Competitions

Eight ladies and twelve men took to a sun-baked green to contest the drawn-pairs plate competitions. The heat took it's toll with one of the ladies pairs having to withdraw, leaving the round-robin tournament (over 10 ends each round) between just three teams. In the end, the pairing of Clare Watton and Frances Hill came out at the top of the table.

The Gent's competition took the form of a round-robin of five games each of six ends. Once again a player was forced to withdraw, Mike Caird's gammy knee getting uncomfortable in the heat. However he was replaced by President Grenville Watton, who had been hoping for a quiet afternoon running the competitions. Two pairs managed to win four of their five games - Myrrdin Owen with Ted Matthews and Quentin Smith with Mike/Grenville. As the matches won were equal shot difference was then taken into account ... and that was equal as well! Attention then turned to ends won and shots scored - which would be used had not been defined at the start of the day! Once again it was close, with Quentin and partners just having the advantage by 1 end and two shots. (July 2013)

Ladies -v- Gents

Around two-dozen ladies and gents took to the green on a lovely sunny Sunday afternoon to contend the annual challenge. Played in the usual friendly spirit - with neither side giving an inch - the gentlemen eased out leads on all three rinks (two fours and a triple) to win by 26 shots, despite a number of "penalty" shots awarded to the ladies (by the ladies) for alleged indiscretions by the gentlemen! (May 2013)

Competition Successes

Congratulations to Mike Hubbard, who won his first round match in the National Singles Competition and to Lilleshall men's team who beat Gilt Edge in the National Two Fours Competition. They now play Worcester in the next round, away on Sat 25th May. (May 2013)

Lewis Pairs Competition

A cold and blustery day meant only eight mixed pairs contested the Lewis Trophy. Several sharp showers interruped the games, one forcing an early refreshments break. Two groups of four pairs competed in a league format, with the two winning pairs battling out the final. Keith Chaney maintained his winning form, partnering Alison Harris to a narrow victory over runners-up Thelma Stanley and Mike Hubbard. (May 2013)

Yardstick Competition

Congratulations to Liz Caird & Keith Chaney who took the honours in the first Club competition of the Season - the Val Smith Memorial Trophy yardstick competition. (April 2013)

Opening Day

Members assembled on 13 April for fish and chips, washed down with a traditional glass of Frank and Frances's warming punch. Friendships were renewed, new members were welcomed and everyone decided it was too cold and wet to go bowling! The active season will start with the yardstick competition on 20 April. (April 2013)

Working Party Prepares Green

Around 20 members assembled on a chilly but sunny morning on 6 April to get the green and clubhouse into shape for the new season. That many pairs of hands made light work of installing the ditch liners, re-marking the rinks, tidying the equipment shed and numerous other important little jobs. The season starts on 13 April with fish and chips followed by some casual bowling. (April 2013)

President's Day

Almost inevitably the weather had the final say in a fairly dismal season as the Ladies-v-Gents match planned for the several-times rescheduled President's Day was rained off. Members wisely stayed in the clubhouse and did not brave the single-digit temperatures and driving rain. They did, however, take part in the raffle and tombola in support of the President's chosen Firefighter's Charity, raising £200 in the process. (September 2012)

Club Finals Weekend

Fair weather throughout meant a very enjoyable finals weekend for both players and spectators. Club President Grenville Watton summarised the matches as follows:

Roy Warburton Trophy (men's 4-wood singles) - Mike Hubbard beat Paul Mitchell 21:14 - Mike got away to a 6:0 lead and after that it was fairly even, but the early damage proved telling for Paul.

Frank Richards Cup (ladies 4-wood singles) - Frances Hill beat Alison Harris 21:7 - Frances bowled very well and Alison never got going.

QRS Cup (qualifying 4-wood singles) - Steve Broome beat Roy Sewell 21:17 - A very close game throughout with Steve just edging it in the last couple of ends.

Mike Caird Cup (open 4-wood singles, played in sets) - Mike Hubbard beat Sheila Simcoe 2:1 - Mike won the first set 12:7, with Sheila recording the exact same score in the second set. Mike edged the third set on the last of the three deciding ends.

Tarmac Cup (open 4-wood, handicapped) - Steve Broome beat Paul Mitchell 21:6 - Paul struggled to find the line on the tricky rink number 2.

Nuway Trophy (open 4-wood singles) - Rod Payne beat Quentin Smith 21:16 - Quentin got away to a flyer being 7:0 up, Rod came back strongly to go 16:8 up, Quentin came back to 16:14, but Rod finished well.

Cyril Davies Cup (veterans 4-wood singles) - Keith Reynard beat Myrrdin Owen 21:13 - A well-contested struggle, but Keith always had the edge.

Pairs Shield (open 4-wood pairs) - Kath Matthews and Thelma Stanley beat Roy Sewell and John Harris 27:14 - After the first 7 ends the outcome never looked in doubt with the ladies bowling very well.

(September 2012)

Attwood Trophy

Twenty-two ladies from the three Shropshire clubs competed for the Attwood Trophy at St.Michael's on 6 September. Previously awarded to the winning club from the results of ladies matches, its new format is for a ladies drawn pairs competition.

The eleven pairs were divided into 2 pools, with teams playing all the others in their pool on a league basis. Both pools were well contested and the final results were very close.

Pool 1 winners, with 6 points, were Liz Caird & Kath Matthews. Pool 2 winners (with 5 points and a +2 shot difference) were Audrey Attwood & Cherry O'Connor.

The final started well for Audrey & Cherry, who scored two doubles to lead 4-0 after two ends, but Liz and Kath (photo: right) came back to win by 7-6.

The day was thoroughly enjoyed by all, including the excellent lunch provided by the hosts, St.Michael's. (September 2012)

SBCA Results

Lilleshall players did extremely well in the SBCA Finals held at Telford & Wrekin BC on 1 September. Only in the Men's Singles was a Lilleshall victory assured, as Keith Cheney took on Quentin Smith. The match was close throughout, with Keith finally winning 21-19.

In the Ladies Singles Alison Harris started slowly against Pat Westcott and after fifteen ends was 3-16 down. However she staged a remarkable recovery to win 21-19 after a marathon 27 ends.

In the Pairs, Sheila Simcoe and Rod Payne edged ahead against Lil and Paul Potter and maintained their position to win 27-22

Mike Caird's photos show the winners receiving their trophies from SBCA Chairman Mike Bradburn. (September 2012)

SBCA Finals

Lilleshall are represented in all three SBCA finals, with Quentin Smith, Alison Harris and the pairing of Sheila Simcoe and Rod Payne already qualified. At the time of writing, their oppositions are not yet decided. (August 2012)

Telford Open Triples

Steve Broome and Iain Ellis continued their winning form on Sunday 19th August, teaming up with Keith Chaney to win the Telford Open Triples. They were awarded the Arthur Hounslow Memorial Trophy and also received a modest prize purse! (August 2012)

Borrett Cup : Mixed Triples

Eighteen members played on 4 August for the Jack Borrett Rosebowl. The low turnout allowed a league format with all teams playing each other over eight-ends. No team went unbeaten, but only one managed four wins from five, so it was Thelma Stanley, Iain Ellis and Steve Broome who lifted the trophy. As is traditional, match fees and the proceeds from an excellent raffle were donated to Beryl Borrett's chosen charity. Mike Caird's picture shows President Grenville Watton (left) presenting the Borrett Cup to skip Steve Broome, watched by Thelma Stanley and Iain Ellis (August 2012)

Captain's Day

Club members gathered on 21st July for Captain's Day. A fixed-jack competition was held, won by Margaret Cartwright and Frank Hill, who each received a Queen's Diamond Jubilee mug and an engraved medal. Other activities included a hand of bingo, won by Peter Attwood and a decorated hat competition won by Sheila Simcoe and John Harris. It's probably best not to reveal the winners of the gentlemen's knobbly-knees and ladies' wriggly-bottom competitions! (July 2012)

Pairs Plate Competitions

The Men's and Ladies' Plate competitions were run together on Saturday July 28th, the Ladies' competition having been postponed earlier in the season. 16 men and 8 ladies gathered at the Club on a miraculously fine, bright day and enjoyed an excellent afternoon's bowling followed by tea and cakes.

In the Men's Final, Keith Reynard and Bernard Williams came runners-up to the pairing of Steve Broome and Peter Attwood (so good to see the latter bowling brilliantly after his recent eye operations), while in the Ladies' Final, Ruth Lowe and Kath Matthews defeated Marion Cutmore and Frances Hill, after previously losing to them in the group stage! (Report by Alison Harris, July 2012)

Sheila heads for the top!

Congratulations to Sheila Simcoe on reaching the final of the Worcester BA Ladies Champions of Champions competition. Sheila awaits the result of the other semi-final to know her opponent for the match which will be played at Barbourne BC on July 14th. (July 2012)

UPDATE: sadly Sheila lost in the final, but put up a great show against an opponent with international experience. (August 2012)

Club Saddened

We were saddened to hear of the untimely death on 2 July of Dave Kincaid, Secretary of Telford & Wrekin BC, following a heart attack. We extend our sympathies and condolences to his family, and to our friends at Telford, at this difficult time. (July 2012)

Men Lose in Vernon Turner

Lilleshall's men lost in the first round of the Vernon Turner 4-rinks competition as Stourport BC exacted revenge for their loss in the double-rinks competition. On a rain-soaked green Lilleshall started well and held a few shots advantage for much of the game. Stourport reacted strongly in the final stages and the match finished with all four of their rinks recording modest wins (June 2012)

Olympic Bowling!

Bowling came to the middle of Newport High Street on May 30th as Bowls Development England's portable mat was laid out in the road before the passage of the Olympic Flame.

Young and old tried their skill against the mat which had a few strange "runs" caused by the camber of the road and the chevron road markings! Despite that, several children won £1 by displacing the coin from the top of the jack.

Below: The Mayor of Newport (and former Club member) Tony Forrester waits his turn for a roll-up on the portable mat while a young bowler studies the head intently under instruction from Club members Iain Ellis and Terry Billington

Mixed Fortunes for Lilleshall Teams

Lilleshall teams have had mixed results in recent county and national competitions. In the Worcester ladies fours, Sheila Simcoe's rink lost by 2 shots to Pershore and Thelma Stanley's four lost by a single shot to Broadway. In the Worcester ladies triples Sheila, joined by Ruth Lowe and Audrey Attwood won their preliminary round match against Gilt Edge, but were then beaten at Bredon in the first round proper. However Thelma, joined by Kath Matthews and Frances Hill, won thier first round match against Droitwich Spa. In the men's pairs, Rod Payne and Mike Hubbard had a good home win against a pair from Chester Road. (May 2012)

Lilleshall Men Lose Narrowly

Lilleshall Men lost a closely fought match against Pershore in the Bowls England "Top Club" competition. Mike Hubbard started Lilleshall's campaign with a narrow win in the 4-wood singles, but this was offset as Steve Broome lost by a single shot in the 2-wood singles. Rod Payne's triple lost by a few shots, leaving the match at 2-1 in Pershore's favour. Mike Caird and Quentin Smith pulled back an 8-3 deficit to go into the last end one up, but dropped a single, taking their game into an extra end, where they secured the shot needed to win and bring the match level. Paul Mitchell's rink battled bravely, but were beaten by a single shot, giving Pershore the win by the smallest of margins. (May 2012)

Lewis Cup Mixed Pairs

Eight pairs contested the Lewis Cup drawn mixed-pairs on 12 May. The round-robin series were topped by the pairs of Thelma Stanley with Terry Billington and Kath Matthews with Peter Attwood. After the designated eight ends in the final the scores were level, resulting in a dramatic last end which saw Thelma and Terry emerge victorious by a single shot. (May 2012)

County & National Competitions

Lilleshall teams started with mixed fortunes in their various county and national competitions. In the Bowls England men's double rinks Lilleshall beat Stourport away by five shots to earn a second round home draw against Pershore. A triple and rink, both skipped by Mike Hubbard, won against St. Dunstans, while Rod Payne's mixed four and the pair of Mike Caird and Quentin Smith both lost away to strong Chester Road opposition. (May 2012)

Valerie Smith Memorial Trophy

Over 20 bowlers turned out for the Valerie Smith Memorial Trophy yardstick competition. The April weather played its usual tricks with the competition starting in bright sunshine yet play being suspended after four ends with the green covered in a layer of hail stones! Additional distraction was provided by the Team GB Olympic Archery trials being held just beyond the green. Each bowler kept their own score over the 14 ends, with a point scored for every bowl finishing within a yard of the jack. To add further complication, jacks were not centered after the first two ends. Frances Hill was the highest-scoring lady, with 36 shots, and Quentin Smith the top gent with 30. They share the trophy. (April 2012)

   

2012 Competition Season Gets Underway

Lilleshall kicked-off their new season with a fish and chips meal, washed down with Frank & Frances's hot punch, before some brave souls took to the green for a few ends of bowling to get the joints moving! In view of the heavy rain in the preceding days the Green Committee took the opportunity to instruct members in the use of nets to protect the surface when soft. Our photos show the double-act of Rod Payne and Mike Caird laying out the first net. (April 2012)

Golden Match

Lilleshall closed their season in a delightful manner with a dinner provided by stalwart members Frank and Frances to celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary.

The clubhouse was a riot of gold and yellow, having been secretly decorated by club members the evening before. Members old and new enjoyed a glass of Pimms before sitting down to a hot meal followed by some very "naughty" desserts!

Following the meal, Frank and Frances captained the teams for the Ladies-v-Gentlemen match, which was reduced to 12 ends as most of us couldn't manage any more after the meal! Our photo shows Frances presenting the trophy to Frank following the Gentlemen's 50-37 win. Ladies-v-Gents (Sept.2011)

2011 Finals - Day 2

Four finals were played on the second day of finals weekend, thankfully all in fine weather. Frank Hill made a good start in the Mike Caird Cup competition, leading 7-1 in the first set, but Mike Hubbard recovered to tie the set 8-8. Mike continued his good form to take the second set comfortably 13-3, and the match 1.5-0.5.

In the Ladies singles final, reigning champion Frances Hill put up a strong challenge, but was overcome 21 - 12 by an in-form Sheila Simcoe.

In the later games, Mikes Caird and Hubbard contested the Men's Singles. Mike Caird built up a solid lead at 15-8, and despite stern resistance from Mike Hubbard, ran out winner 21-10.

The last game to finish was the QRS (qualifying) cup, which saw a rematch between John Harris and Sheila Simcoe. Having lost to John in the Tarmac Cup the day before, Sheila was not to be beaten this time and established a commanding 13-5 lead. John fought back well, losing 21-14 over 20 ends. (September 2011)

2011 Finals - Day 1

Four finals were completed on the first day of finals weekend 2011. In the Nuway Cup Mike Hubbard and Sheila Simcoe contested the first of several finals for each of them, with Sheila making a seven shot surge to win 21-15 from 14-15 down.

In the Tarmac Cup handicap Sheila was comfortably beaten by John Harris, who had the benefit of a five shot start.

Myrddin Owen and Kath Matthews played out a highly competitive match in the Cyril Davies veterans cup. At 19-15 up, Myrddin played a masterly last bowl to trail the jack for the two shots required. One head in this game was so exceptionally tight that a club member set off around the green to take a photograph - but by the time he got there Myrddin had fired the jack several yards from the bowls!

The final game saw Mike and Sheila in action again, contesting the pairs shield competition against Mike Caird and Quentin Smith. The weather took a turn for the worse and as soon as trial ends were completed waterproofs were donned. After a while the skies brightened and Mike Caird removed his waterproofs, only to be caught at the other end of the green from them when the rain came again. Mike & Quentin took an early lead and remained in front to win 21-12 with an end to spare, Quentin ending up the only defending champion to regain their title. (September 2011)

Shropshire Finals

The SBCA Finals were competed on 3 September at St.Michael's BC. In the Men's Singles, Frank Hill (Lilleshall) established a strong position over Keith Reynard (Lilleshall), and was leading 19-10. However Keith made a strong and sudden comeback, taking the next three ends 4-4-3 to win 21-19.

In the Ladies Singles, Sheila Simcoe (St.Michael's & Lilleshall) beat Frances Hill (Lilleshall) 21-18 in a well-fought contest. Frank & Frances also had disappointment in the Pairs competition, losing 15-19 to Malcolm Simmonds and Gerry Westcott (St.Michael's).

Our pictures show Keith and Sheila receiving their trophies from SBCA Competition Secretary George Chambers. (September 2011)

Ladies Day

The ladies of Lilleshall, together with friends from the other Shropshire clubs, enjoyed a fun "Ladies Day" which included a bowls competition, a hat competition, a quiz, a "horse race" draw and tea - with cakes and meringues, strawberries and cream!

The photo shows the ladies (and interlopers John Harris and Mike Caird) in their fancy hats. Frances Hill won the bowling competition and Audrey Attwood the hat competition. (August 2011)

Shropshire Finals

Lilleshall are represented in all three Shropshire finals, to be played at St.Michael's on 3 September. Frank and Frances Hill competing in the Men's and Ladies' Singles. Frank takes on fellow Lilleshall bowler Keith Reynard, while Frances plays Sheila Simcoe (St.Michael's & Lilleshall). Frank and Frances are also in the pairs final, where they play Gerry Wescott and Malcolm Simmonds from St.Michael's. (August 2011)

Shropshire Rinks

Nine teams took part in the Shropshire Rinks competition hels at Lilleshall. Teams played in two leagues, one of four and one of five teams, playing all others in their league over eight ends.

In the five-strong league, the team comprising Grenville Watton, Alison Harris, John Harris and Paul Mitchell (all Lilleshall) finished unbeaten with three wins and a draw. In the other league, three teams finished with two wins, so positions were determined by ends won, with Silvia Lewis, Brian Moore (both Lilleshall), Bill Frost (St.Michael's) and Wally Thurling (Lilleshall) winning by a single point.

The final, also over eight ends, saw some excellent bowling and a somewhat boisterous crowd! Paul's rink won the first five ends to take a commanding 11-0 lead. Wally's rink fought back, but could only finish runners-up at 12-4. (August 2011)

Ladies Pairs Success

Audrey Attwood and Ruth Lowe finished in third place (from 28 entries) in the Ladies Open Pairs competition at Barbourne. As well as the pleasure from their success they received a cash prize ... does that make them professionals? (August 2011)

Jack Borrett Trophy

Eight mixed triples took to the green for the Jack Borrett Trophy competition on 6th August. Playing as two leagues of four, each team played the others in its league over eight ends. Competition was tight and no team won, or lost, all its games. Shot difference came into play to determine the finalists - Frank Hill, Frances Hill and Bernard Williams and Sheila Simcoe, Mike Hubbard and Rod Payne. A successful defending champion was assured, as both Bernard and Rod had played in the 2010 winning triple.

The final was intended to be over ten ends, but Sheila, Mike and Rod built up a substantial 18-3 lead and the match was conceded after eight ends. (August 2011)

Val Smith Memorial Trophy

Sixteen bowlers competed in the "yardstick" competition for the newly presented Val Smith Memorial Trophy. The competition was initially intended to be a mixed pairs competition, but an imbalance of ladies and gents made this tricky! Instead, the bowlers played in fours, scoring individually for each wood within one yard of the jack. The trophy was awarded to the top lady - our President, Silvia Lewis - and top gentleman Paul Mitchell. The trophy was presented by former member Colin Smith, who has moved to Gloucester. Incidentally, Colin was persuaded to play to make up the 16, and came a very creditable third in the gentlemen's competition. (July 2011)

SBCA Charity Shield

In a close-fought match, Lilleshall just won the SBCA Charity Shield - with the same points score as St.Michael's, but a marginally better shot difference. Report & photos. (July 2011)

Scarecrow

Who's this character? He seems to be celebrating a win and looks just a little under the weather!

No, it's not the webmaster on a night out, but the club's entry for St.Mary's Church, Lilleshall's, flower festival scarecrow competition. Led by Liz Caird, the club put together his fetching ensemble from lost and discarded items rescued from the club changing rooms. Notice that he sports a "you are the weakest rink - goodbye!" medal from a previous Lilleshall tour and has his Marigolds on ready to do the washing up! (July 2011)

Jack Bayliss Cup

Twenty-four bowlers took to the green on a sunny afternoon to contest the Jack Bayliss Cup (drawn 4-wood pairs). Divided into two leagues, each pair played the others in their league over just 5-ends - slip-ups were costly! The league winners - Wally Thurling & John Harris, and Mike Hubbard & Bernard "Bernie the Bowl" Williams played the final over a marathon eight ends.

Playing on a new rink the players made a tentative start, but Bernard and Mike took three on the first end. In the second end Bernard trailed the jack to make two, and Mike added two more to take a commanding 7-0 lead. Two further singles took them to a 9-0 lead at the halfway point, but Wally and John fought back, not allowing them another shot. However they were only able to take singles and the match finished 9-4. (July 2011)

Men's Plate Competition

Sixteen men took to the green on a sunny 16 July to contest the Men's Plate drawn pairs competition. A full round-robin pitted every pair against each other over 5-end mini-games. The strong pairing of Rod Payne and Mike Hubbard narrowly out-pointed runners-up Paul Mitchell and Wally Thurling to take the title. The young ladies of the club laid on an excellent tea for the combatants. (July 2011)

President's Day

President Silvia Lewis was delighted with the outcome of President's Day on 28 May. Those present enjoyed a fun day of bowling and other activities and £300 was raised for her chosen charity, Combat Stress. (June 2011)

NSC Cup

Sixteen bowlers took to the green on a typically chilly June afternoon to contest the NSC Cup (2-wood drawn pairs). A series of round-robin matches saw Rod Payne and Frank Hill head the honours - surprisingly Rod's first win in the competition. (June 2011)

Dinner and Awards

Members and partners enjoyed a lovely meal at Lilleshall Golf Club and (despite the weather) warmly applauded the award winners. Captain Rod Payne presented the Captain's Award for 2010 to Silvia Lewis and, in turn, Silvia presented the Cyril Davies Tour Trophy to Keith Reynard. (November 2010)

Ladies -v- Gents

A disappointingly small number of members took part in the annual Ladies -v- Gentlemen match on 26 September. To cope with a disparity of the sexes the Gentlemen played as rinks against the Ladies triples. The gentlemen won on two of the three rinks, and by 9 shots overall. The Ladies justifiably claimed that they were weakened by the absence of some of their key players ... the Gentlemen claimed the same! (September 2010)

SBCA Finals

Lilleshall players did extremely well in the SBCA finals, held at Lilleshall on 4 September. In the Mens Singles George Chambers defeated Mike Caird 21-13 and in the the Ladies Singles Ruth Lowe defeated Frances Hill by the same score. The latter match was a repeat of last year's final, but with a different result! In the pairs, Ruth Lowe and Rod Payne narrowly beat Gerry Westcott and Malcolm Simmons (St.Michael's) by one shot on the extra, deciding, end. (September 2010)

President's Day

Australian Pairs was the order of the day for President Silvia Lewis's Charity Day. Other fun competitions were laid on, together with a tombola and raffle, all designed to part members from their cash! Over £330 was raised for Combat Stress. Winners of the bowling competition were Mike Caird and Alison Harris. (August 2010)

Shropshire BCA Rinks Competition

Eleven teams from the three Shropshire clubs contested the SBCA Rinks competition played at Telford & Wrekin BC on Saturday 21st. The teams were split into two leagues and played mini-matches of eight ends against the other teams in their league, with points awarded for both matches and ends won.

Both leagues were headed by teams from Lilleshall and these played out the final, also over eight ends, with Audrey Attwood, George Chambers, Ruth Lowe and Rod Payne defeating Clare Watton, Frank Hill, Quentin Smith and Frances Hill. (August 2010)

Jack Borrett Mixed Triples

Turnout for the Borrett Cup competition was disappointing, with only five triples taking part. All played each other in a league format. The two teams finishing highest, and going through to the final on Finals Weekend, were Alison Harris, John Harris and Mike Caird, and Audrey Attwood, Bernard Williams and Rod Payne. (August 2010)

SBCA Charity Shield

Thirty-six bowlers drawn from the three Shropshire clubs contested the Shropshire Bowling Clubs Association Charity Shield on 25 July, hosted by Lilleshall Hall BC. Each club fielded four triples, who each played two triples from the other two clubs. Lilleshall triples performed well, all four winning three of their four games, to give Lilleshall the win. More importantly, a good time was had by all and over £300 was raised for the Severn Hospice. (July 2010)

Men's Pairs Plate

Fourteen men took part in the Men's Drawn Pairs competition on 17 July. An extended round-robin saw every pair play each other over five ends, with ends won being the main score. The pairs of Rod Payne with George Chambers, and Frank Hill with Peter Attwood made it to the top of the league table and will contest the final on club finals weekend. (July 2010)

Ladies Pairs Plate

The pairs of Audrey Attwood with Ruth Lowe, and Frances Hill with Alison Harris made it to the top of the league table in the Ladies Plate drawn pairs competition and will contest the final on club finals weekend. (July 2010)

Men Lose Close Vernon Turner game

Lilleshall Men turned in a good performance away against a strong Bredon team. Both sides had two winning rinks, but Bredon just edged the match by 6 shots. (June 2010)

Ladies Lose in Double-Rinks

Lilleshall Ladies were narrowly beaten away at Worcester Ladies. Each team had one winning rink, but Worcester won overall by just two shots 41 - 43. (June 2010)

Coaching Sessions a Success

Club members emjoyed a coaching session lead by Worcester Coach Julie Brooks on 19 May.

Aided by Brian Symonds (Black Country BC) and Lilleshall's own Kath Matthews and Keith Reynard the half-hour sessions included exercises in delivering the jack, drawing round short bowls, drawing to off-centre jacks and target bowls and reading the head. (May 2010)

Left: the example head lies one shot to Lilleshall as Julie Brooks (left) listens to Alison Harris's plan for the next shot.
Below Centre: Silvia Lewis puts up a beauty to Kath Matthews's exercise "square".
Below Right: Thelma Stanley prepares to draw round some awkwardly-placed short bowls

Mike Goes On

Lilleshall Mens Champion Mike Caird progressed to the second round of the Worcester Champion of Champions competition with a closely-fought win over old rival Mike Hubbard (Telford & Wrekin BC). Despite being 14-19 down at one stage Mike fought back to win 21-20 in the match which lasted 30 ends. He now faces Bill Probert (Inkberrow BC) in the second round. (May 2010)

Ladies Lose Narrowly to Manor Park in "Top-Club" Competition

Lilleshall Ladies lost narrowly to a strong Manor Park team in the Bowls England "Top Club" competition. Played over four matches (4-wood single, pair, triple and rink) the match is decided simply on number of games won. A singles win by Shropshire Champion Frances Hill set the team up well, but losses in the pair and rink left a draw as the best available result. Sadly the Lilleshall triple themselves only managed a draw, so the match was lost 2.5 - 1.5 (May 2010)

Men Lose to Oldington in "Top-Club" Competition

Lilleshall men were comfortably beaten by a strong Oldington team in the Bowls England "Top Club" competition. Played over five matches (2-wood single, 4-wood single, pair, triple and rink) the match is decided simply on number of games won. Only Lilleshall's triple, skipped by Paul Mitchell, won, resulting in Lilleshall going down 4-1. (May 2010)

Yardstick Competition

Twenty-two bowlers took part in the new "yardstick" competition, where every bowl finishing within a yard of the jack scores a point. Allison Harris won the ladies trophy and Mike Caird the mens. (April 2010)

2010 Season opens in glorious sunshine

The 2010 season got off to a fine start in all senses with the best weather for many years. Members enjoyed a chicken casserole followed by a few gentle ends of casual bowling. Our picture shows the webmaster's magnificent bowl (arrowed) making its way to the jack to win the opening "spider" for a bottle of whisky. (April 2010)

Below, President Silvia Lewis "bowls off" to open the season watched by members and friends.

Captain's Award

Club Captain Rod Payne took the opportunity of opening day to present the Captain's Award for 2009 to Quentin Smith, in recognition of his work "behind the scenes" maintaining the Club's website. (April 2010)

President's Charity

Club President Silvia Lewis annouced that her charity for 2010 will be Combat Stress of Newport. (April 2010)

Harry Osborne

With great sadness the club learnt of the death on 11 January of one of its Honorary Life Members and former Treasurer, Harry Osborne. (January 2010)

Liz Caird presents the trophy to Rod Payne
(Photo: Quentin Smith)

Gentlemen Win Again

The season ended in glorious sunshine with the Ladies-v-Gentlemen game. Missing some of their key players, the ladies fielded three triples. The gentlemen had fourteen players available, so captain Rod made a number of tactical substitutions at half-time to ensure everyone had a bowl. The gentlemen retained the trophy with a 13-shot win and the day was rounded off with a tasty buffet and a piece of Silvia Lewis's Birthday cake! More pictures (September 2009)

Kath Matthews
(Photo: John Harris)

Kath Goes Up a Notch

Congratulations go to Kath Matthews, who has successfully completed her level 2 coaching certificate. With two members currently studying for level one, the club will soon be well supported on the coaching front. (September 2009)

 
 

 

Jack Bayliss Cup

Twenty-four bowlers took part in the Jack Bayliss Drawn Pairs competition. Two leagues of six pairs each played each other over six ends. Both leagues were tight, with winners only dediced by shot difference. Rod Payne and George Chambers won through one league to go onto the final against Alison Harris and Peter Attwood from the other league. The final will be contested over Club Finals weekend. (September 2009)

2009 Shropshire Finalists (from left) Ruth Lowe, Keith Reynard, Mike Caird, Quentin Smith
Ian Evans, Jim Lister, Frances Hill, Mike Bradburn (Photo: Frank Hill)

Shropshire Finals

Lilleshall had representatives in all three Shropshire BCA finals, held at Telford on 5 September. Ruth Lowe and Frances Hill competed for the ladies title, and in a closely fought match Frances just emerged the victor 21-18. Defending men's champion Keith Reynard took on Mike Bradburn (Telford & Wrekin BC) in a re-run of last year's final. However Mike was keen for revenge and scored a comfortable win. In the pairs, Mike Caird and Quentin Smith took on Ian Evans and Jim Lister (Telford & Wrekin BC). The match had almost everything - umpire measuring with calipers, a 'toucher' being pushing into the ditch to beat the toucher already there, and much more. Though trailing by a few points from early in the match, and being four shots down with three ends to play, Mike and Quentin fought back to go into the final end 14-13 up. With just Jim Lister's last bowl to be played, Mike and Quentin were holding shot, but with a precision draw Jim not only took the shot, but eased the Lilleshall wood back just enough to score a two, and take the match by 15-14. (September 2009)

Ladies Do Well at Droitwich

Alison Harris, Kath Matthews and Thelma Stanley travelled to Droitwich to take part in the floodlit "day-night" triples competition. Having a thoroughly enjoyable time they won all but one of their matches to finish in second place, only losing (by one shot) to a Littleton BC triple studded with Worcester county players. (September 2009)

Barbourne Open Success

Lilleshall ladies did well at the recent Barrbourne Open competition. Kath Matthews and Thelma Stanley contested the pairs, and were joined by Frances Hill for the triples. On the first days both teams won all three matches, taking them through to the finals day. Though unbeaten in the preliminary round, their shot differences were marginally bettered by other unbeaten teams, so both competed in the play-offs for thirds and fourth place. Kath and Thelma won their game, to finish third, whilst the triple were narrowly beaten to finish fourth. A good time was had by all! (August 2009)

Borrett Cup

Eighteen bowlers enjoyed a sunny day for the Jack Borrett Mixed Triples competition, and for the first time in the competition the teams were randomly drawn. After a round of league matches the two top triples, who will play on Finals Weekend, were Silvia Lewis, Ted Matthews and John Harris, and Alison Harris, Grenville Watton and Rod Payne. The Borrett Cup comptition is traditionally a charity day at Lilleshall, and £100 was raised for the Telford Hospice. (August 2009)

Victory at Crystal

Lilleshall recorded a narrow away victory against Crystal on 23 July. Normally a 3-ladies', 3-men's triples fixture, the match was played over five mixed triples, as Lilleshall Ladies were depleted through the match clashing with the Over 60s Pairs competition at Worcester. Torrential rain delayed the start, but sterling work by the home team to brush away surface water and lay protective mats allowed play within 30 minutes. The five mixed triples were divided (both teams won 2, drawn 1, lost 2) but Lilleshall edged the score by 83 shots to 75. (July 2009)

Ladies' Drawn Pairs

Lilleshall's ladies competed for their new 4-wood drawn pairs trophy on 28 June. After an enjoyable afternoon of league-style competition the two pairs going forward to the final, to be played on finals weekend, are Liz Caird with Kath Matthews and Marion Cutmore with Alison Harris (July 2009)

Ladies Out of Double Rinks

Lilleshall ladies were unable to overcome a strong Worcester Ladies BC team in the Worcestershire Double Rinks competition. Having to be played in Worcestershire this "home" match for Lilleshall took place on a neutral green courtesy of Chester Road BC. Both Lilleshall rinks lost by five shots, and at 30 - 40 the final score was appropriate for the final day of Wimbledon! We wish Worcester Ladies well in the next round. (July 2009)

Erdington Court

On a blistering hot afternoon three ladies' triples and three men's triples took on Erdington Court on their challenging outdoor artificial surface. Frequent drink breaks were enjoyed by all. Both teams had three winning and three losing triples, but Erdington Court just won the match, the final score being 78 - 85 (June 2009)

NSC Cup

Twenty bowlers competed for the NSC Cup 2-wood drawn pairs competition on 20 June. The pairs were divided into two leagues of five, with each pair playing the others in their league over eight ends. The top pairs from each league were Frances Hill and Bryan Jones, and Clare Watton and NSC Cup holder Chris Parkin. These pairs will compete for the trophy on Finals weekend. (June 2009)

Men's Drawn Pairs

Lilleshall's men competed for the new 4-wood drawn pairs trophy on 14 June. Using the usual two-league format the pairs played all the others in their half of the draw. The top pairs from each league were Mryddin Owen with George Peake and Paul Mitchell with David Herrick. These pairs will compete for the trophy on Finals weekend. (June 2009)

Ladies Win

Despite a shower of rain during the evening the second three-triples friendly match between Lilleshall ladies and a combined team from St Michael's and Telford was played at St Michael's to a full conclusion of 18 ends. The result was a victory to Lilleshall ladies by 52 shots to 41. The final match of the series will be played at Lilleshall on Friday 28 August and we all hope for better weather ! (June 2009)

WBA Rinks Win

A Lilleshall rink moved into the second round of the Worcester BA Rinks comptition beating Mark Atkins's Worcester BC rink 24-17. The team, (Ted Matthews, Quentin Smith, Mike Caird and Keith Reynard) now face an away tie against Ian Jenkins's team, also from Worcester BC. (May 2009)

Ladies Win at Telford

Not to be outdone by their menfolk, Lilleshall ladies played a combined Telford and St.Michael's team in a three-triples friendly at Telford. Bad weather forced a close after 16 ends with Lilleshall narrowly ahead on all three rinks, winning 41-35 (May 2009)

Lilleshall Men out of Vernon Turner

A second early-morning start proved too much for Lilleshall men who lost away at Evesham in the Vernon Turner 4-rinks competition. Despite dreadful forecasts the weather was generally kind - until we were driving home - and the Evesham green played extremely well. We wish Evesham good luck in the second round. (May 2009)

Dramatic Win for Lilleshall Men

Lilleshall men moved into the second round of the EBA Double Rink competition with a nail-biting away win against Stourport.

Both rinks started well and had double-figure leads at around the halfway point, but Stourport responded strongly. Keith Reynard's rink, the first to finish, were all-square going into the last end and were three down until Keith drew the shot with his last bowl for a 20-19 win. Rod Payne's rink finished one shot down, at 17-18, to bring the match score level, requiring a single-end play-off. The Stourport lead and two gave them the shot and their three and skip placed strategic bowls to make life difficult. Rod's first bowl turned in a Lilleshall wood but it still needed another turn. After careful deliberation Rod steered a beautifully weighted final bowl which turned in the target bowl for shot to take the match.

Rink 1: Grenville Watton, Bryan Jones, John Harris, Rod Payne
Rink 2: Quentin Smith, Mike Caird, Chris Nolan, Keith Reynard

Lilleshall now face a home fixture against either Chester Road or Gilt Edge (May 2009)

 

Dennis Jones

With great regret the Club learned of the death, on 27 January, of one of its founder members and first Treasurer, Dennis Jones. (Jan. 2009)

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