News

20/05/11-County & National Competition Entry Forms

The competition entry forms for next season have all been sent to all club secretaries or club contacts. Please ensure that all players are aware that the correct date for the Brian Medland Mixed Fours is the 11th February 2011 and the preliminaries for the County Singles is the 26/27th November 2010. The Competition entry forms can also be downloaded from the Competitions Page.

10/05/11-Open Day Review

Sixty-three bowlers from across Devon attended the Open Day at the Devonshire Health and Racquets Club in Plymouth on Sunday. The centre will be the new County venue from next season. As well as having a free roll up, visitors were able to meet the new committee. Below are some photos of the venue.

 

03/05/11-New County Venue Open Day

Just a reminder that on this Sunday (8th May) there is an open day at The Devonshire Health and Racquets Centre in Plymouth for all members to come and have a look at our new home. The Open Day is from 10:30 until 4:00 and there is a poster and a leaflet with more information. A map and details of the venue can be found here.

18/04/11-Grand Finals Day & County AGM Review

On Saturday ISCA hosted the Devon County finals day. The day began with the County Triples and County Fours. The County Fours saw Yarnscombe’s Elliot James, George Main, Mike Avery & Tony Main overcome Bow’s Gill Everly, Alan Everly and Maurice Kibby 14-2. It was unfortunate for Bow that they had to play with three players, however their fourth player Sue Cockerham was unavailable and they had already played their one permitted substitute. The Triples was a close encounter between Colin Tims, Geoff Stone and Peter Sydenham of Beer Mariners and Pauline Knight, Mike Knight and John Lyon of Upottery. It was level going into the last end and with the Beer Mariners picking up one shot they won 8-7.

After a short interlude, the County Pairs took place. This was between the current three time champions Mike Avery and Tony Main from Yarnscombe and Mark and Eric Pavey from Sidbury. The Sidbury team got off to a great start leading 6-2 after 5 ends and they never looked back eventually winning 11-6.

This was immediately followed by the County Under 18’s Final and the County Singles Final. In the Under 18’s Elliot James overcame his Yarnscombe teammate George Main 11-5. In the Singles, Tony Main (Yarnscombe) defeated Gareth Hill (Wonford) 9-8 but only after it went to an extra end.

The finals were followed by a roast dinner and then the Devon County AGM took place. The new County Committee information can be found on the Committee page.

14/04/11-Grand Finals Day & County AGM Preview

On Saturday the County Finals take place at ISCA in this seasons Finals day.  In the County Singles, Tony Main (Yarnscombe) will face Gareth Hill (Wonford), and in the County Under 18’s Singles final the Yarnscombe duo George Main and Elliott James will once again fight for the title. In the County Pairs Tony Main is joined by his Yarnscombe teammate Michael Avery to play against the Sidbury pair Eric Pavey and Caroline Thompson. The Triples is an East Devon affair with Colin Tims, Geoff Stone and Peter Sydenham (Beer Mariners) facing Mike Knight, Pauline Knight and John Lyon (Upottery). The Yarnscombe quartet of Elliott James, George Main, Michael Avery and Tony Main will face Gill Everly, Alan Everly and Maurice Kibby from Bow in the County Fours. The day is due to commence at 9:30.

The Devon County AGM takes place in the same afternoon at ISCA, and this will be followed by the presentation of all the trophies.

11/04/11-National Championships Review

Devon came away from the National Championships empty handed. In the Singles on Thursday, Devon had three representatives. Lee Toleman and Robert Ivings struggled throughout the day and failed to get out of their group. James Smith won his group but in the last 32 lost 7-11 to the eventual runner up Jim Mannell from Somerset.

In the Pairs on Friday the first Devon Pairs team, Lee Toleman and James Smith failed to get out of their group by one shot. The second Devon team, late replacements Mike Avery and Tony Main won their group but lost 5-11 to one of the Norfolk teams.

On the Saturday the Fours took place with two teams from Devon competing. Both teams won their group and safely navigated their way through to the last 16. However Simon Pridham, James Smith, James Trott & Lee Toleman then lost to one of the Chesire teams. Whilst Richard Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, Michael Ivings & John Steer were edged out by the Hampshire quartet.

On Sunday Devon had two teams in the Triples and they both won their group and progressed to the last 32. However then Simon Pridham, Lee Toleman and James Smith were defeated 9-4 by the West Midlands team that eventually finished as runners up. The triple of Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy and James Trott progressed a round further where they were beaten on an extra end by one of the Warwickshire triples.

05/04/11-National Championships Preview

The ESMBA National Championships resume this week with the remaining competitions being played. On Thursday the National Singles takes place and Devon is represented by Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), James Smith and Lee Toleman (both Wonford). On Friday James Smith & Lee Toleman and Mike Avery & Tony Main (Yarnscombe) compete in the National Pairs.

On Saturday Richard Ivings, Michael Ivings (both Exeter Nomads), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury) & John Steer (Totnes Creameries) and James Trott (Musbury), Simon Pridham, James Smith & Lee Toleman (all Wonford) compete in the National Fours. Finally on Sunday Simon Pridham, James Smith & Lee Toleman and Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy & James Trott compete in the National Triples. Good luck guys!

Updates from the National Championships can be found on our Facebook and Twitter pages and there will be a full round up on the website next week.

04/04/11-National Mixed Fours & National U-18's Review

It was a good performance by the Devon players at the National Mixed Fours and National Under 18’s. On Saturday Lorraine Axtell, Rose Morrison, Mike Avery and Tony Main reached the Semi-finals of the Mixed Fours before losing 10-2 against a rink from Essex. In the final the Norfolk rink was able to beat Essex 8-6.

On Sunday Elliott James from Yarnscombe was Devon’s representative in the National Under 18’s. After a strong performance in the round robin stage, which saw him top his group, Elliott lost in the first knock out round 12-7 against Jessica Hoole of West Sussex. The National Under 18’s was eventually won by Edward Elmore of Cambridgeshire.

01/04/11-National Mixed Fours & National U-18's Preview

The ESMBA National Championships get under way this weekend with the National Mixed Fours and National Under 18’s being held at Kempston IBC at Bedford. On Saturday Devon will be represented in the Mixed Fours by Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Mike Avery and Tony Main (Yarnscombe). On Sunday, Elliott James (Yarnscombe) will compete in the Under 18’s. Good Luck guys!

20/03/11-British Isles A Team Championship Review

It was disappointment for Devon player Gareth Hill and his England colleagues as Ireland claimed a clean sweep in the British Isles A Team Championships. Gareth was playing in the Team Event and they had a successful first day beating Scotland 53-23. On the second day they beat Wales 44-34 and this led to a winner takes all game against Ireland. Unfortunately for England, Ireland proved to be too strong and England lost 59-27.

As well as finishing second in the Team Event, England also finished second in the Individual Pairs, Triples and Fours, whilst finishing third in the Singles.

18/03/11-New County Venue Open Day

The County Committee have arranged an Open Day at The Devonshire Health and Racquets Centre in Plymouth on 8th May for members to come and have a look at our new home. New ventures are always met with some trepidation but we hope you will not make any judgement before you have at least had a look.

We had no choice in leaving Isca as they could not let us have all of the twenty-two days required for our competitions and as we are not allowed to play County Competitions on Inter-County match days, England days, British Isles Championships or World Championship dates this left us with very few dates to use. We also have to play all the preliminary rounds in October/November so that we can leave December for the National Competitions and then play the qualifying rounds in January. After that ESMBA take up most of the week-ends with Inter County matches and again we cannot use those days. This means our choice is very limited.

It has been suggested that early rounds could be played at local level but that would mean going back to the old system where people play the same people every year and it would not be a level playing field for everyone as it is now, with everyone playing at the same venue. Only a county-wide preliminary draw is entirely fair.

We hope we have done the best for everyone in the circumstances and hope you will join us on 8th May. There is a poster as well as a leaflet which gives more infomation about the Open Day.

18/03/11-British Isles A Team Championship Preview

This weekend the international game takes precedence with the British Isles A Team Internationals, which this year is being held in Swansea. Devon player Gareth Hill (Wonford) has been selected in the Team Event and will take his place in one of the four rinks. The South West is also represented by Peter Hore of Cornwall who will represent England in the Individual Singles, and Robert Martin of Dorset who will take part in the Individual Pairs.

14/03/11-County Team Championship Review

On Saturday 12 teams from around Devon converged on ISCA to compete in this seasons Team Championship. The 12 teams were split into four groups of three and a round robin took place with the winner of each group progressing to the semi finals.

The winner of group 1 was Wonford and they faced Exeter Nomads who won group 2. The match was a tight affair with Exeter Nomads winning the Singles and Pairs and Wonford winning the Triples and Fours, however Wonford progressed to the final on shots. The other semi final saw group 3 winners Totnes Creameries play group 4 winners Abbotskerswell and Totnes Creameries progressed thanks to victories in all four disciplines.

In the Final Totnes Creameries raced into an early lead, when they won the Singles 12-4 and the Pairs 8-7. However Wonford responded by taking the Triples 11-9, meaning that Wonford needed the Fours to win and to overturn 7 shots. However Totnes Creameries were able to hold their nerve and won the Fours 8-6 meaning they were able to take the title they have not won since the 1998/99 season.

10/03/11-England Ladies Team v Ireland Ladies Team

We have been asked by ESMBA to put forward the names of any ladies from Devon who wish to be considered for selection to the above team. It will take place over the week-end of 1st/2nd October in Birmingham and will consist of 1 each of the following, Singles, Pairs, Triples, Fours and 4 x 4 for Rinks. The teams will be selected from players all over the Country. It will also involve a day earlier than October to take part in trials for selection.

Please note that 1st/2nd October are both dates proposed for one of our Devon County Competitions.

If you are interested please send your details to the County Secretary, Irene Smith 40 Winslade Park Avenue, Clyst St. Mary, Devon EX5 1DA or e-mail jandismith@tinyonline.co.uk by 27th March 2011. Please indicate the position you prefer to play.

09/03/11-County Team Championships Preview

On Saturday the final County Competition of the season takes place with the County Team Championships being played at ISCA. 12 teams from around Devon have qualified for the finals. From east Devon we have Exeter Nomads, Musbury, West Hill and Wonford. From north Devon we have Beaford, Shebbear, South Molton and Woolsery. Finally from west Devon we have Abbotskerswell, Christow, Tavistock and Totnes Creameries. Teams from north and east Devon are all scheduled to sign in at 9am, whilst teams from west Devon are scheduled to sign in at 10:45am.

07/03/11-Devon A v Kent A Result

On Sunday the Devon A team took on Kent in the ICC Semi-Final, in what proved to be a nail biting encounter. Devon started off in fine form wining three of the four Singles and Pairs games in the first session. However Kent rallied in the second session winning three of the fours Triples and Fours games in the second session. This ensured that the half time score was even at 8-8. In the third session the two Devon singles players won their games, however both Pairs were defeated. Going into the final session the score was still level and once again it was another tight session, with Devon winning one of the Fours and one of the Triples but losing the other two games.  Devon gained the bonus points in the Singles and shared the bonus points for the Fours, but Kent won both points in the Pairs and Triples. The final score was Devon 19 points (158 shots) Kent 21 (181 shots).

04/03/11-World Open Singles Announced

England Bowler Craig Burgess has announced a new singles competition for next season. The World Open Singles will take place on the weekend of the 1st & 2nd of October at the Wey Valley Indoor Bowls Club in Guildford. Each game will be 21up (first to 21 shots, unlimited ends) and group stages will take place on the Saturday, with the knockout stages being held on the Sunday. For more details and entry forms visit www.shortmatplayerstour.com.

03/03/11-Devon v Kent A Team Announced

On Sunday the Devon A team travel to Caroline Chisholm School in Northampton where they face Kent in the ICC Semi Finals. Details of the venue can be found here. The following players have been selected for the game.

Robert Bartlett (Upottery), Brenda Clark (Shebbear), Sue Cockerham (Bow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Elsie Copp (Exeter Nomads), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliot James (Yarnscombe), Andrew Kerse (Wick), Pauline Knight (Upottery), John Lyon (Upottery), George Main (Yarnscombe), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Mark Pavey (Sidbury), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ken Spiller (Colyton), Caroline Thompson (Sidbury), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Emma Trott (Musbury)

28/02/11-Devon Premier v Kent Premier Result

The Devon Premier team travelled to Caroline Chisholm School in Northampton on Sunday to face Kent in the ICC Quarter Finals. It was a solid start by the Singles and the Pairs in the first session of the day with two wins and two losses. However in the second session the Triples and Fours could only manage one win between them and suffered three losses. In the third session Devon only managed to win one game and in the final session of the day Devon was defeated on all four mats. With Devon picking up the bonus points in the Singles the final score was Devon 10 (156 shots) Kent 30 (191 shots).

Although the Premier team season is now over, the A team travel to Caroline Chisholm on Sunday to play the Kent A team in the ICC Semi Final.

24/02/11-Devon v Kent Premier Team Announced

On Sunday the Devon Premier team travel to Caroline Chisholm School in Northampton where they face Kent in the ICC Quarter Finals. Details of the venue can be found here. The following players have been selected for the game.

Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Dick Boon (Totnes Creameries), Bill Brook (Winkleigh), Andy Crane (Totnes Creameries), David Eastwood (Exeter Nomads), Grenville Gerry (Shebbear), Roger Gudger (Totnes Creameries), Sheila Gudger (Totnes Creameries), Robert Halls (Buckfast), Gareth Hill (Wonford), Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Mike Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Totnes Creameries), James Trott (Musbury)

22/02/11-Devon Team Finish 2nd in Double Rinks Open

On Sunday Devon players Gareth Hill, Michael Ivings, Richard Ivings, Tony Main, Simon Pridham, James Smith, Lee Toleman and James Trott travelled to Surrey to compete in the Double Rinks Open.   With seven teams involved in the competition, teams played everyone in a round robin, giving everyone six games and the scores from both rinks were added up to give the overall score in each game. Despite a strong morning session Devon faded as the afternoon wore on and lost their final two games, eventually finishing in second position. The winning team was from Essex, who won all their games including a one shot victory against Devon. Full scores and the final league table can be found at www.shortmatplayerstour.com.

The organiser Craig Burgess has hailed the competition a success and has already confirmed the competition will take place next year.

07/02/11-Devon A v Surrey A Result

On Sunday the Devon A team travelled to Caroline Chisholm School in Northampton to face Surrey in the ICC Quarter Finals. Devon started the day in superb fashion winning three of the first four games, and they were able to maintain this advantage in the second session. At the halfway stage Devon led 10-6. In the third session Devon won two out of the four games and in the final session they won three out of the four games. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Singles, and Triples the final score was Surrey 16 (156 shots) Devon 24 (189 shots).

The Devon A team return to Caroline Chisholm School to face Kent on the 6th March in the ICC Semi Finals.

10/02/11-Devon v Surrey A Team Announced

On Sunday the Devon A team travel to Caroline Chisholm School in Northampton where they face Surrey in the ICC Quarter Finals. Details of the venue can be found here. The following players have been selected for the game.

Robert Bartlett (Upottery), Brenda Clark (Shebbear), Sue Cockerham (Bow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Elsie Copp (Exeter Nomads), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliot James (Yarnscombe), Andrew Kerse (Wick), Pauline Knight (Upottery), John Lyon (Upottery), George Main (Yarnscombe), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Mark Pavey (Sidbury), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ken Spiller (Colyton), Caroline Thompson (Sidbury), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Emma Trott (Musbury)

08/02/11- New Venue Announcement

From next season all of our County games and Inter-County Competitions will be played at a new venue. The reason for this move is that we were not able to book all the dates we required at the Isca Centre and as it would be very costly and time consuming to keep moving the mats from place to place we had to look further afield. All of the County organised Competitions will now be played at The Devonshire Health and Racquets Club, Derriford, Plymouth, PL6 8BD and we can have all the dates we require and more if necessary.

The journey will be a little further for some members but for others who have been coming to Exeter for the past ten years a shorter journey will be most welcome. We think that you will like the new Centre as it has superb facilities with two swimming pools, gym facilities, squash and tennis courts and an Ofsted approved crèche and bowlers will have complimentary use of these facilities on the days we are there. There is also an excellent restaurant and lots of free parking. We hope to have an Open Day during the summer so that members can come and see for themselves. Further details on this will be sent to the Secretaries in due course.

07/02/11-Devon A v Herefordshire A Result

On Sunday the A team travelled to the Bristol Indoor Bowls Centre to play Herefordshire in the ICC Preliminary round. It was a confident start by Devon, after the first session they were 8-0 up and by the half way stage they were 14-2 up, having only lost one game out of eight. The confident performance continued throughout the day and Devon secured victory after the third session. With Devon gaining the bonus points in all four disciplines, the final score was Herefordshire A 4 (122 shots) Devon A 36 (231 shots).

The Devon A team now travel to Caroline Chisholm school in Northampton next Sunday, where they will face Surrey in the ICC Quarter Finals.

02/02/11-Devon v Herefordshire A Team Announced

On Sunday the Devon A team travel to Bristol where they play Herefordshire for a place in the ICC Quarter Finals. The following players have been selected for the game.

Robert Bartlett (Upottery), Brenda Clark (Shebbear), Sue Cockerham (Bow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Elsie Copp (Exeter Nomads), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliot James (Yarnscombe), Andrew Kerse (Wick), Pauline Knight (Upottery), John Lyon (Upottery), George Main (Yarnscombe), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Mark Pavey (Sidbury), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ken Spiller (Colyton), Caroline Thompson (Sidbury), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Emma Trott (Musbury)

31/01/11-County A Team Preliminary Round

It has been confirmed by the ESMBA that the Devon A team will face Herefordshire this Sunday at the Bristol Indoor Bowling Club in the ICC Preliminary round, with the winners facing Surrey in the Quarter Finals. Details of the venue can be found here. The Devon Premier team have to wait until the end of February when they will play Kent in the Quarter Finals.

31/01/11-Margaret Elliot Pairs Result

On Sunday, the annual Margaret Elliot Pairs took place at ISCA. The competition is open to any Devon registered bowler who is not an existing County Champion in any of the four main disciplines, or played for one of the County Teams in the previous 12 months.  The Margaret Elliot Pairs is a popular event in our calendar and this year 30 pairs participated, representing clubs from all over Devon.

After a round robin stage and several knock out rounds we got to the semi-finals. The first was contested between Keith Manaton and John Stewart of Anstey and Maurice Kibby and Sue Cockerham of Bow, with the pair from Bow just edging it 10-11. The second semi-final was an East Devon affair between the Sidbury pair of Mark Pavey and Caroline Thompson and the Upottery pair of David Hayler and Chris Young. The Upottery pair was able to win 9-8. Just like the semi-finals, the final was another tight affair and came down to the last bowl of the last end, with Maurice Kibby and Sue Cockerham just winning 8-7.

24/01/11-National Under 18's Qualifiers Results

On January 22nd the National under 18’s qualifiers was also held at ISCA. The event was originally planned for the 18th of December but due to the snow Devon experienced it had to be rearranged. With only two entries, it was a straight shootout between the Yarnscombe players George Main and Elliot James. The winner was Elliot James, winning 10-4, and he will now represent Devon at the National Under 18’s Final which is held at Kempston IBC on 3rd of April.

24/01/11-County Competition Preliminary Finals Summary

In the last month all the County Competition Preliminary Finals have taken place at ISCA.  On the 8th of January, the County Fours was played and the winning semi-finalists were Elliott James, George Main, Mike Avery and Tony Main from Yarnscombe and Gill Everly, Sue Cockerham, Alan Everly and Maurice Kibby from Bow.  On the 15th of January ISCA hosted the County Triples preliminary Finals. The winning Semi-finalists were Mike Knight, Pauline Knight and John Lyon from Upottery and Geoff Stone, Colin Tims and Gordon Tremlett from Beer Mariners.

The County Pairs Preliminary Final was held on the 22nd of January and the winning semi-finalists were Caroline Thompson and Eric Pavey from Sidbury and Mike Avery and Tony Main from Yarnscombe. The following day the County Singles Preliminary Final was held. The winning semi-finalists were Gareth Hill from Wonford and Tony Main from Yarnscombe. In the county under 18’s, which was held back in October, George Main and Elliot James both from Yarnscombe made it to the Final.

The Finals of these five disciplines will be held on Grand Finals and AGM day at ISCA on 16th April

10/01/11-Dorset V Devon Result

On Sunday the Devon County Team travelled to Dorset to play their final ICC group fixture. The Premier team had an even start to the day, in the eight morning games they won three, drew two and lost three games. However Dorset picked their game up in the afternoon session and Devon only managed to win one of the eight remaining games. With Dorset picking up the bonus points in every single discipline, the final result was Dorset 30 (184 shots) Devon 10 (147 shots). The Premier team were already guaranteed top spot and are through to the quarter finals.

The A team went into the game, knowing that a good win could see them snatch second spot and they started off in a confident mood and at the halfway stage led 11-5. The Devon team continued their dominance in the afternoon session where they won six out of the eight games. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Triples the final score was Dorset 11 (151 shots) Devon 29 (190). With Somerset beating Cornwall 29-11 Devon finished second and qualify for the main knockout competition and now face a preliminary round at the start of February.

05/01/11-Dorset v Devon Team Announced

Devon play their final ICC group game on Sunday when they travel to The Dorset Golf and Country Club and Resort to face Dorset. The Premier team travel knowing that top spot in their group is already secured, whilst the A team know that second spot is still within their reach. The Following players have been selected for the game.

Premier team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Dick Boon (Totnes Creameries), Bill Brook (Winkleigh), Andy Crane (Totnes Creameries), Dave Eastwood (Exeter Nomads), Danny Gooding (Silverton), Sheila Gudger (Totnes Creameries), Robert Halls (Buckfast), Graham Heaman (Merton), Gareth Hill (Wonford), Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Totnes Creameries), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Robert Bartlett (Upottery), Brenda Clark (Shebbear), Sue Cockerham (Bow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Elsie Copp (Exeter Nomads), Grenville Gerry (Shebbear), Roger Gudger (Totnes Creameries), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliot James (Yarnscombe), Andrew Kerse (Wick), George Main (Yarnscombe), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Mark Pavey (Sidbury), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ken Spiller (Colyton), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Emma Trott (Musbury)

21/12/10-National Allocation

The ESMBA have now confirmed the allocations for the National Championships to be held at Kempston IBC, in Bedford in April. In the Singles we have been allocated three places. In the Pairs, Triples and Fours we have two places, whilst in the Mixed Fours and the Under 18's we have been allocated one place.

20/12/10-National Singles Qualifiers Results

On Saturday the National Singles was able to take place albeit with a delayed start. After the round robin and several knockout stages the final was contested between Robert Ivings and James Smith, with Robert winning 14-7. The third and fourth place playoff was contested between Gareth Hill and Lee Toleman, with Lee winning 12-4. The Winner is guaranteed a place in this seasons ESMBA National Championship held at Kempston IBC in Bedford on 7th-10th April. The National Under 18's had to be postponed due to the adverse weather and is now due to be played on 22nd January.

13/12/10-Somerset v Devon Result

On Sunday the Devon County Teams travelled to Taunton to face Somerset in their latest ICC Fixture. The Premier Team started off very brightly and won seven out of the eight morning games, meaning they led 14-2 at the halfway stage. However Somerset responded in the afternoon session and Devon only managed to win three out of the eight remaining games. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Fours and sharing the bonus points in the Triples, the final result was Somerset 13 (149 shots) Devon 27 (185 shots). The result confirms that with one game left to play, Devon win the group and qualify for the knock-out stages of the competition.

The A team continued their mini-revival with a confident performance. After a solid start to the day Devon led 10-6 at the halfway stage. This performance was maintained in the afternoon where they won five out of the eight afternoon games. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Fours, the final result was Somerset 14 points (170 shots) Devon 26 points (192 shots). The result places Devon into third place and just 3 points behind second place Somerset with one game to play.

The final ICC group game is away to Dorset on the 9th January. The match is to be held at the Dorset Golf and Country Club. On the same day Cornwall play host to Somerset in their final ICC game.

13/12/10- National Triples and Mixed Fours Qualifiers Results

On Saturday the National Triples and National Mixed Fours Qualifiers took place at ISCA. In the morning seven teams competed in the Triples and it was eventually won by Simon Pridham, James Smith and Lee Toleman, who beat Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy and James Trott 11-4 in the final. The third and fourth place playoff was won by Andy Thompson, Ken Kelly and Gareth Hill who beat Pam Toleman, Margaret Smith and Marie Toleman 7-8. The winners are guaranteed a place in this seasons ESMBA National Championship held at Kempston IBC at Bedford on 7-10th April 2011. The runners-ups may also qualify for the nationals, but this will not be known until a later date.

After lunch the Mixed Fours commenced, with four teams competing in a round-robin. Lorraine Axtell, Michael Avery, Rose Morrison and Tony Main were able to secure top spot in the group in their last game when they beat Margaret Smith, Marie Toleman, Simon Pridham and James Smith 5-8. The result left James Smith's rink in second place. Tony Main's rink will now represent Devon in the National Mixed Fours which is held at Kempston IBC at Bedford on 2nd April 2011.

 

08/12/10-Somerset v Devon Team Announced

Devon are in ICC action again this Sunday when they face Somerset away at Taunton. Details of the venue can be found here. The Following players have been selected for the game.

Premier team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Dick Boon (Totnes Creameries), Bill Brook (Winkleigh), Andy Crane (Totnes Creameries), Dave Eastwood (Exeter Nomads), Danny Gooding (Silverton), Robert Halls (Buckfast), Graham Heaman (Merton), Gareth Hill (Wonford), Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Totnes Creameries), Lee Toleman (Wonford), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Robert Bartlett (Upottery), Brenda Clark (Shebbear), Sue Cockerham (Bow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Elsie Copp (Exeter Nomads), Grenville Gerry (Shebbear), Roger Gudger (Totnes Creameries), Sheila Gudger (Totnes Creameries), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliot James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Mark Pavey (Sidbury), Simon Pridham (Wonford) Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ken Spiller (Colyton), David Tarr (West Hill), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Gordon Tremlett (Beer Mariners), Emma Trott (Musbury)

06/12/10-National Pairs & Fours Qualifiers Results

On Sunday the National Pairs and National Fours Qualifiers took place at ISCA. In the morning the Pairs took to the mat and after several matches the final pitted James Smith and Lee Toleman against Lorraine Axtell and Bill Brook with James and Lee winning 8-5. The third and fourth place playoff was won by Michael Avery and Tony Main who beat Shirley and John Parnell 12-1.

After lunch the Fours was held and after several games the final pitted Simon Pridham, James Trott, James Smith and Lee Toleman against Richard Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, Michael Ivings and John Steer. It was a tight affair with John Steer's rink eventually winning 8-4. The third and fourth place playoff was even tighter with Andy Thompson, Malcolm Sheen, Ken Kelly and Gareth Hill needing an extra end to beat Gill Hollis, Shirley Parnell, Peter Hollis and John Parnell.

The winners are guarenteed a place in this seasons ESMBA National Championship held at Kempston IBC at Bedford on 7-10th April 2011. The runners-ups and third place team may also qualify for the nationals, but this will not be known until a later date.

06/12/10-Devon v Somerset Result

On Saturday Devon faced Somerset at home in their latest ICC fixture. Once again the Premier Team had a solid start to the day and by the halfway stage Devon led Somerset 10-6. The afternoon sessions followed a similar pattern with Devon winning five out of the eight afternoon games. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Singles and the Fours the final Score was Devon 24 (178 shots) Somerset 16 (161 shots).

The Devon A Team also had a solid start to the day and just like the Premier Team, led 10-6 at the halfway stage. Their dominance continued into the afternoon where they won five out of eight games. Devon also gained the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Fours. This made the final score Devon 26 (187 shots) Somerset 14 (153 shots) giving the Devon A Team a much needed victory.

The next game for Devon is away to Somerset on 12th December. The match is to be held at the Taunton Deane Indoor Bowls Centre. Details of the venue can be found here.

01/12/10-Devon v Somerset Team Announced

After a months break the ICC campaign continues on Saturday where the Devon County Team entertain Somerset. The match held at ISCA in Exeter starts at 11am and spectators are welcome to come along and support the teams. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Dick Boon (Totnes Creameries), Bill Brook (Winkleigh), Andy Crane (Totnes Creameries), Dave Eastwood (Exeter Nomads), Danny Gooding (Silverton), Robert Halls (Buckfast), Graham Heaman (Merton), Gareth Hill (Wonford), Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Totnes Creameries), Lee Toleman (Wonford), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Robert Bartlett (Upottery), Brenda Clark (Shebbear), Sue Cockerham (Bow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Elsie Copp (Exeter Nomads), Grenville Gerry (Shebbear), Roger Gudger (Totnes Creameries), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliot James (Yarnscombe), Andrew Kerse (Wick), George Main (Yarnscombe), Eric Pavey (Sidbury) Mark Pavey (Sidbury), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ken Spiller (Colyton), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Gordon Tremlett (Beer Mariners) Emma Trott (Musbury)

23/11/10-British Isles Results

It was a successful weekend for Devon players Lee Toleman (Wonford) and Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads) who were representing England in the Pairs at the annual British Isles. On the Saturday they had two wins, firstly against Scotland (13-9) and then against the Isle of Man (29-4). On Sunday morning, they were defeated by Wales (9-15). In their last game they faced Ireland with the winners of the game being crowned champions, after a tight start the England pair slowly eased in front and never looked back and won 14-8. Congratulations guys!

Michael Ivings and Lee Toleman with the British Isles Pairs Trophy

Unfortunately Lee was not so successful in the Team Event. On the first day England faced Scotland and won convincingly (53-17). On the Sunday they beat the Isle of Man (73-14) and Wales (35-27) and then faced Ireland with the winners of the game being crowned champions. After a tight game in which two rinks won and two lost Ireland, won by 5 shots (31-36) and England finished runners up. England also won the Individual Fours and came runners up in the Triples.

17/11/10-British Isles Preview

This weekend the international game takes precedence, with the British Isles taking place at Douglas in the Isle of Man. Devon players Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads) and Lee Toleman (Wonford) will be representing England in the Pairs. Lee has also been selected to take part in the Team Event, which consists of four rinks playing against rinks from the other nations involved. Good luck guys!

Lee Toleman & Michael Ivings representing England this weekend at the British Isles.

16/11/10-Double Rink Open Competition

England bowler Craig Burgess has announced details of a new competition. The Short Mat Double Rink Open to be played on Sunday 20th February at the Wye Valley Indoor Bowls Club at Guildford in Surrey. Teams enter as two rinks of four, and results are determined from the overall scores from the two rinks. The entrance fee is £10 per player (£80 per team). Entry forms can be downloaded here, and for further infomation you can contact Craig at craigburgess@btinternet.com.

Last month Craig also announced the details for this seasons International Open to be held on the 23rd and 24th April. On the 23rd a Fours competition takes place, whilst on the 24th there is a Pairs competition. There are cash prizes for successful teams. For more infomation see www.shortmatplayerstour.com.

11/11/10-Umpires Wanted

Ken Griffiths the Umpire Co-ordinator for Devon, is on the look out for some more umpires to help umpire County events throughout the season. Training and support will be provided. If you are interested or would like to find out more infomation please contact Ken at kengriffiths830@tiscali.co.uk or on 01647 270036.

09/11/10-County Competitions

The last month has seen the qualifiers for all the County Competitions take place. All the qualifiers can now be found on the Competitions page and the County Preliminary Finals take place throughout January. Notification of qualifiers will also be sent to all relevant club secretaries in the next few weeks.

01/11/10-Cornwall v Devon Result

On Sunday Devon travelled down to Bodmin to face Cornwall in their latest ICC fixture. The Devon Premier Team started off confidently with both Pairs and both Singles winning their opening games. In the second session the Triples and Fours won three out of the four games and at the halfway stage led Cornwall 14-2. In the third session the Pairs and Singles once again won all their games and in the fourth and final session Devon was defeated in only one of the four games. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Fours the final score was Cornwall 6 (130 shots) Devon 34 (211 shots).

Unfortunately it was a different story for the Devon A team who struggled throughout the day. After the two morning sessions, wins for both Devon Pairs, one of the Triples and a draw by one of the Fours meant that they were just two points behind, with the score being 9-7 to Cornwall. However in the afternoon sessions Cornwall pulled further away and Devon only managed to draw two games. With Devon picking up the bonus points in the Pairs the final score was Cornwall 29 (213 shots) Devon 11 (153 shots).

The next game for Devon is at home at ISCA on 4th December where they will play Somerset. The match starts at 11am and spectators are welcome to come along and support.

27/10/10-Cornwall v Devon Team Announced

Devon travel down to the Dragon Leisure Centre in Bodmin on Sunday to face Cornwall in their latest ICC fixture. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Dick Boon (Totnes Creameries), Bill Brook (Winkleigh), Andy Crane (Totnes Creameries), Dave Eastwood (Exeter Nomads), Danny Gooding (Silverton), Robert Halls (Buckfast), Graham Heaman (Merton), Gareth Hill (Wonford), Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Totnes Creameries), Lee Toleman (Wonford), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Robert Bartlett (Upottery), Brenda Clark (Shebbear), Sue Cockerham (Bow), Elsie Copp (Exeter Nomads), Grenville Gerry (Shebbear), Roger Gudger (Totnes Creameries), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliot James (Yarnscombe), Andrew Kerse (Wick), George Main (Yarnscombe), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell (Wonford), Eric Pavey (Sidbury) Mark Pavey (Sidbury), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ken Spiller (Colyton), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Gordon Tremlett (Beer Mariners) Emma Trott (Musbury)

25/10/10-Devon v Dorset Result

On Saturday the Devon County Teams continued their Inter-County Championship campaign with a home game against Dorset. The Devon Premier Team started off strongly and by lunchtime led Dorset 11-5. This dominance was maintained after lunch and Devon won five of the eight games in the afternoon. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Triples, the final Score was Devon 27 (212 shots) Dorset 13 (152 shots).

The Devon A team had a much more confident start to the match then they did against Cornwall and at the halfway stage they were just behind 6-10 to Dorset. Just like they had done against Cornwall, Devon rallied in the afternoon, winning five of the eight remaining games. After Devon secured the bonus points in the Pairs and Triples the final score was Devon 20 (181 shots) Dorset (171 shots)

Devon play their first away game of the season on Sunday 31st October when they travel to the Dragon Leisure Centre in Bodmin to face Cornwall.

20/10/10-Devon v Dorset Team Announced

Devon continue their ICC campaign on Saturday at home against Dorset. The match held at ISCA in Exeter starts at 11am and spectators are welcome to come along and support the teams. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Dick Boon (Totnes Creameries), Bill Brook (Winkleigh), Andy Crane (Totnes Creameries), Dave Eastwood (Exeter Nomads), Dave German (Exeter Nomads), Danny Gooding (Silverton), Robert Halls (Buckfast), Graham Heaman (Merton), Gareth Hill (Wonford), Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Totnes Creameries), Lee Toleman (Wonford), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Robert Bartlett (Upottery), Brenda Clark (Shebbear), Sue Cockerham (Bow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Elsie Copp (Exeter Nomads), Grenville Gerry (Shebbear), Roger Gudger (Totnes Creameries), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliot James (Yarnscombe), Andrew Kerse (Wick), George Main (Yarnscombe), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell (Wonford), Eric Pavey (Sidbury) Mark Pavey (Sidbury), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ken Spiller (Colyton), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Emma Trott (Musbury)

 

17/10/10 Devon v Cornwall Result

Yesterday the Devon County Teams started their Inter-County Championship campaign with a game at home against Cornwall. The Premier Team had a slow but solid start to the day and by the halfway stage they were 9-7 up. In the afternoon Devon increased their dominance, losing only one game of eight. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Pairs and Fours, the final result was Devon 27 (182 shots) Cornwall 13 (155 shots).

The Devon A Team had several new players and they had a shaky start to the day. By the halfway stage they had only won one and drawn one game and were 3-15 down. However the Devon Team rallied in the afternoon and won five out of the eight games. After winning the bonus points in the Pairs and Triples, the final result was a more respectable Devon 17 (159 shots) Cornwall 23 (174 shots).

The Team photographs and the League Tables can be found on the County Team page. The next game for Devon is at home to Dorset on 23rd October.

14/10/10-International Open Details Announced

England Bowler Craig Burgess has announced the details of this years International Open which will be held at Havering Indoor Bowls Club on the 23rd and 24th April. On the Saturday it is a Fours Competition with the winners winning £2,000. Whilst the Sunday is a Pairs Competition with the winners winning £1,000. There will be cash prizes for the runners up and the losing semi-finalists in both events. For more infomation see www.shortmatplayerstour.com

11/10/10-Devon players selected in British Isles Squad

It has been confirmed that two players from Devon have been selected by England for the British Isles, which takes place at the Isle of Man on 20th November. Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads) and Lee Toleman (Wonford) will both be representing England in the Pairs. Lee Toleman is also believed to be playing in the Team Event which consists of four rinks.

08/10/10-Devon v Cornwall Team Announced

Devon start their ICC campaign against Cornwall on the 16th October at ISCA in Exeter. The match starts at 11am, and spectators are welcome to come along and support. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Dick Boon (Totnes Creameries), Bill Brook (Winkleigh), Andy Crane (Totnes Creameries), Dave Eastwood (Exeter Nomads), Dave German (Exeter Nomads), Danny Gooding (Silverton), Robert Halls (Buckfast), Graham Heaman (Merton), Gareth Hill (Wonford), Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Totnes Creameries), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Robert Bartlett (Upottery), Brenda Clark (Shebbear), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Elsie Copp (Exeter Nomads), Grenville Gerry (Shebbear), Roger Gudger (Totnes Creameries), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliot James (Yarnscombe), Andrew Kerse (Wick), George Main (Yarnscombe), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell (Wonford), Eric Pavey (Sidbury) Mark Pavey (Sidbury), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ken Spiller (Colyton), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Gordon Tremlett (Beer Mariners), Emma Trott (Musbury)

26/09/10-Devon County Area Challenge

Yesterday the first County event of the winter season, the Area Challenge took place between the East, West and North Areas. The Area Challenge provides a good opportunity for players to play at ISCA, and for the County Managers to have the opportunity to see emerging talents from the different Areas for future County squads. The players are chosen and organised into teams of triples and pairs by the Area Representatives, and with two new Area Representatives this year it was always going to be an interesting day. Matches in the morning were very close and by the half way stage the East Area only led by three points! However the East Area increased their dominance as the afternoon wore on and by the end of the day the East Area won quite convincingly. The final score was the North Area 39 points, the West Area 45 points, the East Area 60 points.

The East Area representative, Eric Pavey with the A team Co-ordinator Robert Ivings.

09/09/10-England call up for Devon players

News has reached us that several Devon players who trialled for England several weekends ago have been selected for next seasons England squad. Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads) and Gareth Hill (Wonford) will join Lee Toleman (Wonford), who as a National Champion was already guaranteed a place in the squad.

04/09/10-County Competition draw details sent out

The County Competition draw details have now been sent out to all the relevant secretaries. Please note there is an error on the County Singles draw sheet which states that the first qualifying day is the 6th of October, where in fact the first qualifying day is the 6th of November.

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