Ray Parker from Madeira Bowling Club has been appointed Men’s junior vice president by Bowls Devon.

Parker and his wife Carolyn joined the club in 2019, coming from Bovey Tracey, where he had held many roles at their bowls club.

Since moving to Madeira, Parker has been significantly involved in club activities.

His appointment is particularly timely, as he is set to become the Bowls Devon County President in 2026, coinciding with Madeira's 100th-year celebrations.

In the winter of 2026/2027, Parker will be followed by a fellow club member, Roger Williams, who is set to become the Devon County Indoor Bowls Association president.

On the playing front, three triples from Madeira travelled to Honiton for a thrilling match.

What turned out to be a very close encounter of the bowling kind saw 18 players each delivering three bowls across 18 ends, or 972 bowls in total, with only a single shot difference between the two sides.

After a heated exchange, Madeira emerged victorious with just one shot difference - 43 to 42 - showcasing the tough playing conditions.

The game's top rink was Keith Bister, who along with his partners Margot Le Vesconte and Chris Fox, secured their team a +5 shot advantage.

This marks the third time this year that Madeira has won by a one-shot margin.

Madeira, however, suffered a defeat against Budleigh Salterton.

The strong Budleigh Salterton side claimed a sweep on all four rinks of triples and overall by 22 shots.

The best-performing rink for Madeira was led by Brenda Marks, along with Adrian Bovey and Martin Clook, who suffered a loss by a close 3 shots.

They got off to a slow start but won 8 of the last 12 ends – so they were given credit for it.

In other club news, the Club AGM recently took place, competing with the Denmark v England European Football Championship match for attendees.

Yet, enough club members attended the meeting to hear about the club's accomplishments in the past year.

During the AGM, Mary Ann Dowrick awarded her President's Award, dedicated each year to members who have gone above and beyond, to Margaret & Bob Humphrey.

The couple are known for their long-standing service in marmalade production, a process they've maintained for over a decade.

Their homemade marmalade sales contribute to the club’s Benevolent Fund.

The club heartily invites individuals interested in tasting Margaret & Bob’s marmalade or those wanting to try bowling.

Conveniently located next to the Cricket Club and the Queens Drive Car Park, the club hosts coaching and Club Nights every Friday, promising newcomers a friendly welcome and a chance to join their 100th-anniversary celebrations in 2026.