Madeira bowlers got stuck into the new season with the Tony Allcock Trophy (Over 60’ Mixed Two Fours) in which Madeira B faced Topsham in a bid to advance to the second round. Sadly, it was not to be.
A closely-fought match saw the Madeira four of Lyn Halpin, Barbara Walker, Graham Clarkson and skip Bob Walker narrowly defeated.
Meanwhile, on the other rink, Madeira’s Christine Macaulay, Mary Ann Dowrick, David Macaulay and skip Ronnie Cook cruised to a comfortable early lead. However, in a stunning comeback, which included a six on one end, Topsham edged ahead by 21- 20 with the final end still to play. Topsham went for the jugular and with the bit between his teeth, David Tucker led his troops to a three-point overall victory.
Honiton came to town for a friendly three rink ladies’ triples. After a sunny Springlike morning, a cold East wind blew in and Honiton took no prisoners in trouncing Madeira’s ladies on all three rinks. Overall shot score 67-31.
Madeira men ventured to Devon’s eastern border at Chardstock with four men’s triples. At half-time, the match was nicely balanced and a gritty second nine ends by the trio of Chris Trayler, Brian Poulter and skip Chris Reed ground out a 16-15 win on their rink to give Exmouth hope. However, Chardstock were making hay on the other three rinks to give themselves a comfortable 72 - 54 victory overall.
Madeira also hosted a five mixed triples friendly against Bitton Park. Sadly, with Exmouth leading at half time, the match had to be abandoned in the face of heavy rain.
Then, resplendent in an array of red, white and blue “uniforms”, Madeira members, new and old, celebrated on the rinks with a Coronation Drive.
This regally clad omnium-gatherum, ably marshalled by Chris Fox, saw the “Orbs” defeat the “Sceptres” 77 shots to 69. Top honours went to the majestic foursome of Dee Williams, Vic Doidge, Jude Latta and John E. Bellamy. In addition, Mars bars were awarded to the commoners, who shall remain anonymous, bringing up the rear. After an excellent cream tea, the event concluded with a loyal toast.
Madeira will hold an Open Day on Saturday, May 13 from 11am until 3pm. Please come along and give the game a try.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here