News

19/06/16 DCSMBA Statement Regarding Registration Fee

Registration forms will be sent to Club Secretaries in early July. The ESMBA will be holding an EGM on 16th July with a proposal to raise their part of the fee from £3.00 to £4.00 to cover a personal accident insurance for all members. The Devon County Committee are actively looking into the details of the proposed changes as our Insurers inform us that we have adequate cover on our Devon County policy. Therefore the membership fees will remain at £6.00 for the present but will be reviewed as usual at the AGM in 2017.

Please note that any member playing in County Competitions or for the County Teams must be registered before competitions commence which all start in September this year.

09/06/16 Kathy Wright Sadly Passes Away

It is with great sadness that we learn that Kathy Wright (Mutterton) has passed away. Our thoughts go out to all of family and friends. A Service of Celebration for the life of Kathy will take place at East Devon Crematorium, Whimple, on Monday, June 20th 2016, at 11:30 a.m. The family request those attending the service do not wear black, and Short Mat Bowling friends to wear their club colours. Family flowers only please.

Donations in memory of Kathy, in aid of the Multiple Sclerosis Society and Cancer Research UK, can be given by retiring collection or cheques made payable to W.H. Squires & Son Limited Donations account may be sent to Walter H. Squires & Son, Chapel of Rest, 27 Higher Street, Cullompton, Devon, EX15 1AJ.

30/05/16 ESMBA Announce National Club Championship Details

The ESMBA have announced the details of this years National Club Championship which is to be held in Daventry. The event takes place on the 17th July. This year the ESMBA have decided not to charge an entry fee. However there is a limit to the amount of entries they can take and so interested clubs are advised to get their entry in early. An entry form can be downloaded here

19/05/16 Help Requested From Activity Cafe In Exeter

We have had a request for help from the Activity Cafe in Exeter. This is a Club for people with dementia and their carers. They meet every fourth Friday at St. James Parish Church in Exeter. It would mean taking a mat to the centre, although they do have transport if necessary. Help would also be required in showing people what to do. If you feel you can help in any way please contact Elaine Nicholson,

e-mail:- Elaine.Nicholas@alzheimers.org.uk

09/05/16 County Trials & County Squad Day

The county is always on the lookout for new players to play for Devon in the Inter County Championship. Initially round robin games take place against Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset and then there may be longer journeys to face other county sides later in the season. If you feel you would like to have a chance to be considered to play, then players can download and fill in a trials form which can be found here.

This season they will be a trials day at ISCA on Sunday August 7th. Once the county managers have received player’s trials forms they will be in touch with each trialist to confirm their attendance and start times. It is envisaged that it will be a full day. Please do not just turn up on the day without sending a trial form in and informing the county managers.

Throughout the day trialists will be assessed on their ability and by the end of the day each player will be informed whether the county managers would like them to attend the County Squad day. The County Squad day is to be held a week later on Sunday 14th August and will also be held at ISCA. If players do have any questions, then please do not hesitate to contact either Richard Ivings (Premier Team Manager) or Robert Ivings (A Team Manager). Their details can be found on the committee page.

17/04/16 World Masters Review

It was disappointment for the three Devon players who participated in the Short Mat Players Tour World Masters which was held at Belfast this weekend. Steve Pomeroy who was making his SMPT debut did beat fellow Englishman Paul Bax in the group stage but this was not enough to prevent him from entering the shield. Steve progressed to round two of the shield where he was beaten 12-7 by David McGuinness.

James Trott finished 4th in his group and therefore entered the plate competition after winning two out of his five group games. He was then beaten 8-7 by Sophie McIntyre in the second round of the plate. Paul Pomeroy however was able to top his group by winning four out of his five group games which ensured he progressed to the main knockout stage. However his progress was halted in the second knockout round when he was knocked out 10-8 by Angus Barnes. The World Masters was won by Gary Burke who beat Andrew Leckey 8-7 in the final.

Despite the early exit Paul Pomeroy will be pleased to have secured his place to represent England in the SMPT World Cup which will be held on the 19th August, a day before the UK Open takes place. More details about the SMPT and future events can be found here.

10/04/16 National Championships Review

Over the last few days the National Championships have been held at Church Gresley in Derbyshire. On Thursday Devon had two players in the Singles with both Michael Ivings and James Trott participating. Both players qualified top in their group and qualified for the main knock-out stage. Sadly, that is where it ended for both players with Michael being defeated 11-9 by Roger Wiggins (Oxfordshire), whilst James was beaten by Jon Pitcher (West Midlands). Jon Pitcher went on to win the title by beating Jake Atrill of Gloucestershire 10-4.

On Friday in the Pairs James Trott was joined by fellow club member Paul Pomeroy and they were joined by fellow qualifiers John and Shirley Parnell (Wonford). Both Pairs had strong starts to the day and both topped their respective groups at the end of the group stages. However, John and Shirley were knocked out by local rivals Somerset 13-6 in the last 32. James and Paul progressed to the quarter finals where they were knocked out by North Yorkshire 11-3. The North Yorkshire pair went on to win the title by beating Dorset 11-9 in the final.

On Saturday the Fours took place and once again Devon had two teams involved and both teams secured passage into the knockout stages. However the journey ended for Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, James Trott and James Smith in the last 32,when they were knocked out by the Oxfordshire rink 9-8. Anne & David Summers, Jack Hurdon and Simon Pridham progressed to the last 16 where they were beaten 18-7 by Northamptonshire. The Fours was won by Cheshire who beat Staffordshire 10-3.

On Sunday two Devon teams were in the Triples and both secured safe passage out of their groups. However, the road ended for the Yarnscombe trio of Jay Shaw, Mike Avery and Elliott James who were beaten by Somerset 9-2 in the last 32. They were joined by James Trott, Paul Pomeroy and Michael Ivings in the very next round when they lost to Hampshire 8-7 after an extra end. The fours was won by Essex who beat Cheshire on the final end.

04/04/16 National Mixed Fours & National Under 18's Review

On Saturday Devon had two teams in the National Mixed Fours. The Christow rink of Neil Wilkins, Steve Collins and Sue & Georgina Cleave came second in their group behind a Hampshire rink with two wins and a loss. However they were defeated 11-6 by a Hertfordshire rink in the first knockout round. The Second Devon rink was Graham James, Hillary Isley, Mark Allen and Lorraine Axtell and they topped their group following two wins and a draw. But like the Christow rink they were defeated in the next round recording a 15-5 loss to North Yorkshire. The North Yorkshire rink went on to win the title beating East Sussex 10-5 in the final.

On Sunday two Devon players were in the National Under 18's. Oliver White (Loddiswell) sadly did not make it out of his group after only picking up a draw in his group which was against Morgan Warnes of Norfolk. Benny Bass (uffculme) narrowly qualified from his group thanks to a dominant 15-4 win against Leah Thompson of Worcestershire. However Benny was beaten in the first round by Morgan Warnes 8-5. The winner of the Under 18's was Northamptonshire's Callum Beale who beat Richard Jeffrey of West Sussex 9-5 in the final.

The National Championships resume later this week with the National Singles, Pairs, Triples & Fours. There will be live coverage of Devon’s performance on our Facebook and Twitter pages and there will be a report on the website next week.

21/03/16 County Team Championship Review

On Sunday the 6 clubs that qualified for the County Team Championship final descended on ISCA. The Six teams were split into groups of three with the winners of each group contesting the final.

The winners of the first group was Yarnscombe and they faced Wonford who won the other group in the final. In the final the singles was a tight affair with Wonford James Smith snatching it 6-8 against Yarnscombe's Graham James. The second game to finish was the pairs with Wonford winning it 9-11. The Triples was dominated by Wonford and they won 11-3. With Wonford having won on 3 mats the Fours was conceded with Yarnscombe winning 3-1. Therefore Wonford won the County Team Championship for the first time since the 2008/09 season.

17/03/16 County Championship Final Preview

This coming Sunday ISCA hosts the last county event of the season, the County Team Championships. From the North Yarnscombe and Winkleigh have qualified, from the east Sidbury and Wonford have qualified. Whilst from the south defending champions Totnes Creameries qualified alongside Bere Alston. All teams are due to sign in at ISCA by 9am.

14/03/16 Devon Area Challenge Review

On Sunday players from all around the county as ISCA played host to the Area Challenge. As noted in the preview The event sees each of the Area Representatives pick 1 Singles, 1 Pairs, 1 Triples and 1 Fours from their area, these players are all non county players. These teams then play all the other areas as well as the Devon County A team.

In the first session defending champions, the North Area faced the West Area, with the West winning the Singles, Triples and Fours. The West Area also picked up the bonus points for having the most shots throughout the four games.The East Area meanwhile took on the County A Team, with the A team winning the Pairs, Triples and Fours as well as getting the two bonus points for getting the most shots.

The second session saw the North Area and the A team share the spoils with the North winning the Triples, the Fours and drawing the Singles. However the A team did win the Pairs and got the bonus points for having the most shots. The West Area took on the East Area and the East area came out strong winning the Pairs and Triples as well as drawing the Singles. They also took the bonus points.

The last session proved to be a nail biter. The North Area faced the East Area and once again the East produced a dominant performance by taking 8 out of the 10 available points. The East's sole defeat coming in the Fours. The West Area faced the Devon A Team and won the Singles and the Triples. The West Area also won the most points by having the most shots.

At the end of the day the North Area finished with 9 points, whilst the A Team, The East Area and the West Area all finished on 17 points . This meant that the West and East Area had to nominate three players within their team to play a one end Singles playoff to see who would win the Area Challenge. The East Area kept their nerve to win the Singles 3-0 and retain the title that they lost last year.

10/03/16 Devon Area Challenge & AGM

On Sunday ISCA hosts the Area challenge. The event sees each of the Area Representatives pick 1 Singles, 1 Pairs, 1 Triples and 1 Fours from their area, these players are all non county players. These teams then play all the other areas as well as the Devon County A team in what is always a good day. All players need to be signed in by 9am.

This is then followed by the County AGM and trophy presentation which is scheduled to take place approximately 4:45pm - 5pm

06/03/16 Devon Win ICC Premier Rinks

Devon became the first winners of the ICC Rinks competition on Saturday after another bruising battle against Essex in the final. The day started with the group stages and Devon faced neighbours Cornwall in the first game. Despite a slow start which saw Devon 12 shots down after each mat had played 4 ends, Devon fought back strong and won 3 out of the 4 rinks and won the tie by 8 shots. The second game saw Devon face Surrey who had lost the first game to Kent. Devon were in control throughout, winning on every rink and won by 22 shots.

The final group game was against Kent, and Devon started the game knowing a win or draw would ensure progress into the final, but a defeat might allow Kent or Cornwall to progress at the expense of Devon. It was a confident start by Devon who quickly built up a strong lead, however Kent recovered and chased down the shots and took the lead. With two rinks losing and one rink drawing it was down to Michael Ivings rink who ensured the shots were tight with a mammoth 15 shot win which ensured Devon only lost by 3 shots.

With Kent and Devon level on points Devon progressed to the final thanks to a superior shot difference. Their opponents in the final was Essex who beat Devon in the ICC Semi Finals 22-18 only 2 weeks ago. However Devon stormed out of the blocks and by the time 7 ends had passed on all mats Devon were 10 shots ahead. The first rinks to finish was Richard Ivings, Malcolm Sheen, Simon Pridham and Michael Ivings who kept the imperious form that they had showed all day by beating Barry Hedges rink 14-6. The second rink to finish was Irene Smith, Thomas Perris, Eric Pavey and Rose Morrison who were defeated by Adam Sultana's rink 7-17, however the 4 that they picked up on their last end proved vital. The third rink to finish was Elsie Copp, John Smith, Paul Pomeroy and James Trott who beat Alan Jones's rink 14-11. This ensured the final rink of Graham James, Mike Avery, Elliott James and Tony Main knew that Devon would win the title as long as they did not drop 5 shots on their final end against Craig Burgess's rink. With Craig unable to take the jack off the mat with his final bowl the Devon rink settled for a 12-9 win ensuring Devon won by 47 shots to 43 shots and became Premier Rinks champions.

Devon Premier Rinks Team who beat Essex in the Final to win the Premier Team Rinks

02/03/16 Devon Premier Rinks Final Team Announced

Devon Premier travel to to Daventry on Saturday for the finals of the ICC Rinks. The team qualified back in September following wins against Dorset and Herefordshire. Devon will have to face neighbours Cornwall as well as Kent and Surrey in their group. The winners of the group will go on to face the winner of the other group in the final. The match takes place at Daventry Indoor Bowls Club, the venue details can be found here. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Michael Ivings (Wonford) Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Malcolm Sheen (Awliscombe), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Trott (Musbury)

25/02/16 New Devon Umpire

Ken Griffiths is delighted to announce that Devon County has a newly qualified Umpire – Richard Williams from Willand SMBC successfully passed all sections of the Test and is our latest recruit, we welcome him to the team.

Congratulations to Richard and If anyone else is interested in obtaining the qualifications and becoming an Umpire, please do contact Ken; 07841-849094 – ken_67@btinternet.com

23/02/16 DCSMBA AGM Details

Devon County S.M.B.A. Annual General Meeting will take place on 13th March at Isca Bowling Centre at approximately 4.45-5.00p.m. after the Area Challenge match between teams from the three areas and the Devon County ‘A’ Team.

Some of the existing Committee are prepared to stand again but this does not preclude anyone else from putting themselves forward for nomination. The Area Representives from the West/South area and the Mid/North area will not be standing for re-election so we are seeking nominations for these now vacant posts. The post entails being the main contact for that Area and giving help to Clubs wherever possible.

AGM paperwork and nomination forms have been sent to all Club Secretaries but if you need any further information please contact the County Secretary, details as follows:-

Irene Smith

e-mail:- jandismith@talktalk.net

Tel: 01392 874416

Mob: 07968371176

22/02/16 Devon v Essex Review

It was the end of the road for Devon in this years ICC Campaign after they were defeated by Essex in the semi finals. The first session was split evenly with Devon winning one of the Singles 15-11 and one of the Pairs 13-12. With narrow defeats in the other two games the shots in both disciplines were tied. However a bad second session gave Essex the advantage, with Devon just gaining one point thanks to a 15-15 draw in one of the Triples. This left the half time 11-5 to Essex.

In the third Session Devon won one of the Singles 17-13 and despite a defeat in the other Singles did enough to secure the 2 bonus points. In the Pairs the scores were again split with Devon winning one 14-7 but losing the other 14-6 which meant Essex also took the 2 bonus points. Devon went into the final session knowing they needed to get 9 points. As the session wore on this looked achievable and the first Triples came in with a 14-7 win. The second Triples however lost their momentum and lost 12-14. With the bonus points in the Triples split with one point going to each county, Devon needed to get maximum points from the Fours to force another shootout. However despite the 2 mats winning 17-12 and 11-10 Essex held on to the bonus points leaving the final score Devon 18 (194 shots) Essex 22 (199 shots).

Essex now face Norfolk who beat Cheshire 24-16 in the other Semi Final. Devon attention now turns to the ICC Rinks which takes place on the 5th of March. The team for this will be announced shortly.

15/02/16 Devon Semi Final Team Announced

On Sunday the Devon Premier travel to Daventry where they face Essex in the ICC Semi finals. The winners will then face either Cheshire or Norfolk on the 6th of March . Details of the venue can be found here. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Mark Allen (Sidbury), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Michael Ivings (Wonford) Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Malcolm Sheen (Awliscombe), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Trott (Musbury), Oliver White (Loddiswell)

15/02/16 Devon v West Midlands Review

On Sunday the Devon Premier team faced West Midlands in Oxfordshire in the ICC quarter finals. It was a stuttering start for Devon in the first session where the County only picked up 2 points with a 20-4 win in one of the Pairs. The second session saw the Triples and Fours take to the mat and the session was split with Devon winning one of the Fours 21-2 and one of the Triples 13-10, but losing the other other two matches. This left Devon trailing at half time by 4 points with the score at 10-6.

The third session was again split evenly with Devon winning one of the Pairs 16-8 and one of the Singles 13-9. Devon did pick up the bonus points in the pairs but lost the bonus points in the Singles. Devon entered the final session knowing they needed a big performance with the scores at 16-12 to the West Midlands. The Triples were the first to finish and Devon won one 17-14 but lost the other. With the West Midlands also gaining the bonus points they had 20 points and just needed one point from the Fours to gain victory. However the first Fours to finish came off the mat with a 17-3 victory, whilst the second Fours held on to their lead that they had established and won 9-7. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Pairs and Fours the scores were tied at Devon 20 West Midlands 20.

With the scores level, the bonus points are removed and with the scores still tied a one end three singles shootout was held to decide who progressed to the next round. For Devon James Smith, James Trott and Michael Ivings were selected. First to finish was James Trott who won his end, this was closely followed by James Smith who was holding shot before his last bowl so did not play it. With the game sealed Michael did not have to finish his end. With this victory Devon now travel to Daventry next Sunday for the Semi final where they face an Essex side who beat Kent 32-8. The other Semi final will see Cheshire who beat Somerset also with a shootout face Norfolk who beat defending champions Hampshire 28-12. The Devon team will be announced later in the week.

10/02/16 Devon v West Midlands Team Announced

The Devon Premier team travel to Wallingford in Oxfordshire where they face the West Midlands in the quarter finals of the Inter County Championships. The match takes place in the Regal Centre and venue details can be found here. Players should be aware that there is no food at the venue, however there is a supermarket nearby and players are asked to be at the venue at 10am. The following players have been selected.

Premier Team; Mark Allen (Sidbury), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Michael Ivings (Wonford) Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Malcolm Sheen (Awliscombe), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), Margaret Smith (Wonford), James Trott (Musbury), Oliver White (Loddiswell)

08/02/16 English Masters Review

It was mixed fortunes for Devon bowlers this weekend at the English Masters that was held in Bromsgrove. Both Andy Thompson (Sidbury) and Ray Young (Exeter Nomads) both came in their group and qualified for the main cup knockout stage. However both got knocked out in the first round. James Smith (Wonford) also made into the main cup knockout stage and reached round 3 where he was knocked out by Sweden's Dick Almen 12-9. Both Paul Pomeroy (Musbury) and Graham James both went a stage further and reached the quarter final. Graham James was beaten by fellow Englishman Chris Grocott 12-4 whilst Paul Pomeroy was beaten 12-11 by James Bucknall. James Bucknall went on to won the English Masters after beating fellow compatriot Dom Reed 9-6 in the final.

Despite not making the main cup knockout stage there were several other notable performances by Devon players. In the plate Tony Main (Yarnscombe) reached the quarter final before he was dispatched 10-9 by Chris Davies of Wales. In the Shield both Elliott James (Yarnscombe) and James Trott (Musbury) reached round 3. James Trott was beaten 9-8 to Nick Evans from Wales, whilst Elliott James was beaten by England's Steve Buckett.

Attention now turns to Ireland in April with the World Masters on the 16^th/17^th and the World 2 bowls Singles on the 15^th with both events held in Belfast. There are spaces available for both of these events and more information can be found by going to the short mat players tour website.

04/02/16 English Masters Preview

The Short Mat Players Tour returns this weekend with the English Masters which takes place at Bromsgrove Indoor Bowls Club. 17 players from Devon have entered the competition with players from Awliscombe, Colyton, Exeter Nomads, Musbury, Sidbury, Silverton, Totnes Creameries, Uffculme, Wonford and Yarnscombe all competing. As usual progress throughout the weekend can be followed here and there will be a comprehensive report on the website soon after the event has finished.

31/01/16 ICC A Team Rinks Review

On Saturday Devon A travelled to Daventry IBC to take part in the ICC A Team Rinks Final. In the group stage Devon faced Kent, Suffolk and Northamptionshire with the winners progressing to the final. In the first game Devon faced Kent. Kent started off very strongly and with 4 ends left of each rink Kent led by over 10 shots. However Devon were able to ramp up the pressure and win some big ends which mean by the end Devon won by 6 shots. In the second game Devon faced Suffolk who had beaten Northamptonshire by 17 shots. Suffolk were dominant throughout the game and won by 13 shots.

Devon entered the final game knowing that they had to hope Kent beat Suffolk and that they could beat Northamptonshire and overturn the shot difference that they had with Kent. Devon started off very strongly and quickly raced into a strong lead. Devon in the end won by 21 shots and so focus turned to the Kent v Suffolk match. Kent dominated the match and won by 31 shots ensuring that they reached the final. In the final Kent faced our neighbours Somerset who had won their group after winning all three of their games. it was a tight start to the game and after each mat had played 3 ends the match was tied at 10-10. However as the game went on Somerset started to dominate and won the title with a 31 shot win.

27/01/16 Devon A In Rink Final Action

Due to another county pulling out from the competition Devon A have reached the final stage of the ICC Rinks which takes in Daventry this Saturday. With 8 counties involved there will be a round robin stage where Devon will face three other counties. If Devon top the group then they will face the winners of the other group in the final. The match takes place at Daventry Indoor Bowls Club, the venue details can be found here. The following players have been selected for the game.

A Team; Mark Allen (Sidbury), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Brab Hallowes (Colyton), John Horsham (Winkleigh), Jack Hurdon (Totnes Creameries), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), Jim Preston (Christow), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Oliver White (Loddiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell)

25/01/16 County/National Singles Review

On Sunday ISCA hosted the County/National Singles finals. After the previous preliminary round it had been whittled down to the last 32 and the day started with the usual round robin with players in groups of four. The top two in each group qualified and proceeded to the last 16 with the winners advancing into the quarter finals. The first quarter final saw Michael Ivings (Wonford) confidently see off Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries) 12-2. The second quarter final saw Andy Thompson (Sidbury) squeeze past John Parnell (Wonford) 11-10. The third quarter final was between James Trott (Musbury) and Steve Collins (Christow) with James edging it 9-7. The final quarter final was between Eric Pavey (Sidbury) and David Kay (Beer Mariners) with Eric winning 11-6.

The first semi-final was between Andy Thompson and Michael Ivings with Michael coming through 9-4. The other semi-final was between Eric Pavey and James Trott, with James leading 9-5 going into the final end and not being able to overturn the shots. In the final James Trott took an early lead against Michael and led 5-1 after four ends. However, Michael clawed back and going into the final end led 9-7. James was able to pick up two in the final end meaning an extra end was required to split the two competitors. With the jack ending in the ditch and Michael holding shot, James was not able to draw close enough to the line with his last bowl and Michael became this seasons County Singles champion.

With Devon receiving two spots in the National Singles both Michael and James will go up to Derbyshire in April as Devon’s qualifiers. The results of the knockout draw can be found here.

17/01/16 Brian Medland Mixed Fours Review

On Sunday 20 rinks descended on ISCA to participate in the Brian Medland Mixed Fours. After the usual round robin stage, the winners of each group and the three highest runners up all qualified for the quarter finals. The first quarter final saw Abbotskerswell skipped by Ray Vyse beat the Totnes Creameries rink skipped by Rose Morrison 14-3. The second quarter final saw Winkleigh skipped by Lorraine Axtell lose against the Wonford quartet skipped by John Parnell 12-9. The third quarter final saw the Sidbury rink headed by Eric Pavey dismantle the Bow rink skipped by Maurice Kibby 15-3. The final quarter final was an inter club affair with 2 teams from Christow facing off, with Geoff Cleave's rink beating Edwin Cleave's rink 11-8.

The first semifinal saw the Wonford rink comfortably beating Abbotskerswell 16-5. The other semifinal was also a one sided affair with Sidbury beating the remaining Christow rink 14-5. In the final Sidbury took an early lead and after seven ends were 6-2 up, however the Wonford rink of John & Shirley Parnell, Thomas Perris and Margaret Smith responded in the final three ends and eventually won 10-6 to secure the Brian Medland Mixed Fours trophy.

14/01/16 ESMBA Release National Allocation List

The ESMBA have announced the national allocation that each county will receive. Devon have two places in the Singles, Pairs, Triples, Fours and Mixed Fours. Whilst we have one place in the Under 18's.

11/01/16 Swedish Masters Review

This weekend saw four Devon bowlers travel to a very sowy Strômstad in Sweden to take part in the Swedish Masters. Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads) failed to qualify for the main cup competition after finishing fourth in his group and thus qualified for the Plate competition. However, he was narrowly beaten in the second round 10-9 by Sweden's Conny Kallsvik.

Paul Pomeroy (Musbury) qualified for the main cup after coming second in his group behind Ireland's Cecil Dillon. However, he was beaten by Sweden's Rosa Albrektsson 9-6 in the first round of the cup. James Smith (Wonford) topped his group after winning 4 out of 5 of his group games and also qualified for the main cup. He reached the last 16 before he was eventually beaten by fellow countryman Lee Toleman 15-10.

The story of the weekend has to be with Michael Ivings (Wonford) who also topped his group after winning all his group games. He was able to progress to the semifinal where he faced world number 2 Dimitri Payne of Belgium in which Michael was able to win after he was able to draw close to the jack with the final bowl of the game. The final saw Michael face Marcus Almen of Sweden who he had already beaten in his group. Michael took an early two shot lead, however Marcus responded and was able to gain the initiative and took control of the game leading 8- 4 with 4 ends to go. Unfortunately for Michael, Marcus kept his focus and composure and Michael could not crawl back the shots that was needed and Marcus eventually won 11-4.

Michael Ivings In Action In Final Of The Swedish Masters Against Marcus Almen

The next Short Mat Players Tour event is the English Masters which will be held in Bromsgrove on February 6th/7th. Details of this and all of their future events can be found on their website.

11/01/16 County Under 18's & National Mixed 4's Results

On Saturday ISCA hosted the County under 18's. With 8 entrant’s participants were drawn into groups of four with the winners and runners up qualifying for the knock out stages. The first semifinal saw Oliver White (Loddiswell) knock out Thomas Perris (Wonford) 11-8. Whilst the other semifinal saw Jayden Dyer (Exeter Nomads) beat Benny Bass (Uffculme) 10-5. in the final Oliver was able to maintain the form he showed in the semifinal to beat Jayden by a score of 14-5 and become the county Under 18's champion

On Sunday ISCA hosted the national mixed fours qualifiers for Devon, with the winners being guaranteed a place in the Nationals final later in the year. The first semifinal saw the Christow rink skipped by Neil Wilkins beat the Wonford rink skipped by John Parnell by a score of 12-5. The other semifinal saw the Winkleigh rink skipped by Lorraine Axtell beat the Bere Alston rink skipped by Peter Moore 13-6. The final saw a dominant performance from the Christow team who beat Winkleigh 12-3 and will now represent Devon at the Nationals later in the year

03/01/16 County/National Pairs Report

On Sunday the finals of the County and National Pairs were contested at ISCA. With 32 pairs having qualified for the finals the usual round robin stage took place in the morning. In the afternoon following this, the knockout stages took place, firstly with the last 16 and then the quarter finals. In the first quarter final John & Shirley Parnell (Wonford) beat Andy Thompson & Eric Pavey (Sidbury) 11-7. In the Second quarter final Christow duo Neil Wilkins & Trevor Tregillus confidently beat Julia Woolgar & Graham Heaman 12-3. The third quarter final saw Musbury’s Paul Pomeroy & James Trott edge out the Wonford pairing of Margaret Smith & Marie Toleman 8-6. Whilst the final quarter final saw Mike & Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries) beat Geoff & Georgina Cleave (Christow) 10-4.

The first semi-final saw John & Shirley Parnell face Neil Wilkins & Trevor Tregillus in a game which John and Shirley were in control throughout with the Wonford pair eventually winning 9-4. In the other semi-final Paul Pomeroy & James Trott faced Rose & Mike Morrison. Rose and Mike raced to an early lead but Paul and James slowly pulled back before taking the lead and won 12-8. In what was a game played in the right spirit the final saw James and Paul start off very confidently and race into a commanding lead that they were able to maintain and eventually beat John & Shirley Parnell 13-3.

Paul and James will represent Devon at the Nationals in April. Hoping to join them will be John & Shirley Parnell (2^nd), Andy Thompson & Eric Pavey (3^rd) and Margaret Smith & Marie Toleman (4^th). The results of the knockout draw can be found here.

03/01/16 DCSMBA Statement

Due to the cost to the players and to the county the Devon county committee has decided to withdraw the Devon County A team from this seasons Inter County Competition Consolation Cup.

21/12/15 Devon v Somerset Report

On Sunday Devon hosted Somerset in the final Inter County Championship group game. The Premier team entered the match knowing qualification was assured and that 12 points would be enough to guarantee top spot. However, in the first session Somerset came out firing winning one of the Singles and One of the Pairs whilst drawing the remaining two matches. The points in the second session was shared with both counties winning one Triples and one Fours. This left the half time score at 10-6 to Somerset. Devon stirred into life in the third session with victories on all four mats which ensured they went into the final session with a lead. In the final session the points were shared with Devon winning both of the Fours but losing both of the Triples. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles and Fours the final score was Devon 22 (182 shots) Somerset 18 (184 shots).

The A team entered the game knowing a 24 point victory would be enough to qualify for the main knockout stages, however they got off to the worst start imaginable when they only gained one point from the first session thanks to a 11-11 draw in one of the Pairs. Devon did respond in the second session with wins in both of the Triples and one of the Fours. At half time Devon still trailed to Somerset but only by two points with the scores at 9-7. It was another strong session by Devon when the Singles and Pairs took to the mat for their second game with Devon gaining 3 victories, with the sole defeat coming in one of the Singles. However unfortunately Devon struggled in the final session with defeats in both of the Fours and one of the Triples. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Pairs and Triples the final score was Devon 19 (187 shots) Somerset 21 (192 shots).

The Premier team result mean they top the group and are in to the Quarter Finals on the weekend of the 13^th/14^th February. They face the winners of the preliminary match between Dorset and West Midlands who play on the 31^st January. The A team however failed to make the main knockout stages. The final group standings can be found here.

16/12/15 Devon v Somerset Team Announced

On Sunday Devon entertain Somerset at ISCA in the final group fixture. The Premier team go into the match assured of a place in the knock out stages and they will be aiming to get the 12 points that will secure top spot in the group. The A team enter the match knowing that winning by at least 24 points will also ensure qualification and allow them a chance to defend their title. The match will start at 10am and spectators are welcome to come, watch and support the teams. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Tom Archer (Christow), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Michael Ivings (Wonford) Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Malcolm Sheen (Awliscombe), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), Anne Summers (Totnes Creameries), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Andy Thompson (Sidbury), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Mark Allen (Sidbury), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Brab Hallowes (Colyton), Graham Heaman (Merton), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell (Wonford), Jim Preston (Christow), Martin Sexton (Wick), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Craig Syder (Ottery St Mary), David Tarr (West Hill), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Oliver White (Loddiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell)

13/12/15 Latest ICC News

Following today’s match at Donyatt between Somerset and Cornwall, where the Cornwall Premier team beat Somerset 23-17, the Devon Premier team have qualified for the knockout stages. The team will be looking to secure the 12 points against Somerset in their final group game which will ensure they finish group winners. Cornwall A and Somerset A drew 20-20 and Devon A go into their final game knowing a 24-16 win against Somerset will ensure qualification from what has turned out to be a tight group.

The group tables can be found here. The final group game between Devon and Somerset takes place at ISCA next Sunday at 10 am and spectators are welcome. The teams will be announced later this week.

13/12/15 County/National Triples Report

On Saturday sixteen set of Triples descended onto ISCA to take part in the National/County Triples Final Day. In the morning the sixteen teams were split into groups of four and a round robin took place with the top two teams in each group progressing to the quarter finals.

In the semifinals the Yarnscombe trio of Jay Shaw, Mike Avery and Elliott James were able to pull through 13-5 against the Exeter Nomads team of Martin Conabeer and John & Irene Smith. The other semifinal saw reigning champions James Trott, Paul Pomeroy and Michael Ivings comfortable dispatch Graham James, John Horsham and Lorraine Axtell 16-6. The final was a tighter affair, early on the Yarnscombe trio gained an early lead and they were able to hold on to win 9-6. The results of the knockout draw can the found here.

Jay Shaw, Mike Avery & Elliott James will now represent Devon in the National Championships in April. Hoping to join them will be James Trott, Paul Pomeroy & Michael Ivings (2nd), Graham James, John Horsham & Lorraine Axtell (3rd) and Thomas Perris, Simon Pridham & James Smith (4th) . The ESMBA will inform us of our national allocation in due course.

07/12/15 World Pairs & Fours Review

This weekend saw Bromsgrove indoor bowls club play host to the Short Mat Players Tour annual World Fours and Pairs. On Saturday despite not qualifying for the main cup the Yarnscombe four of Graham James, Mike Avery, Elliott James & Tony Main had a great run in the plate knockout stages. Along the way to the final of the plate they beat the Devon rink of Sue and Ray Young & Brab & Bridget Hallowes 11-4. In the final they faced Chris Mcwhinnie, Chris Davies, Craig Evans & Alan Jones and after pulling away early in the game they were able to win 13-4.

Last year’s plate winners Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, James Trott & James Smith qualified for the main knock out draw and progressed through to the final. In the final they faced their English compatriots Bronagh Toleman, Martin Simcock, John Manely & Lee Toleman in what was a tight encounter. After the 10 ends were played the scores were all level at 7 all and so has it usual in SMPT events a 3 end tie breaker was played. Each player has one bowl and there are no touchers, if a bowl enters the ditch it is removed. The Devon rink were able to win the first two ends in the tie break and so became SMPT World Fours champions.

World Fours Winners Michael Ivings, James Smith, James Trott &
Paul Pomeroy

It was not such a great day in the World Pairs on Sunday. There were several teams from Devon who did not make the main cup knockout and so entered the plate competition. In the first round Gemma Page & Simon Pridham beat Mark Allen & Caroline Pavey after a three end tie break but were beaten 12-7 in the very next round. Brab and Bridget Hallowes also made the second round but were then beaten 10-5.

Last year’s champions Michael Ivings & James Smith topped their group and qualified for the main knockout stages, however fellow Devonians Mike Avery & Tony Main defeated them 13-9. Mike & Tony faced the Belgian pair of Dimitri and Jonathan Payne where they were defeated 12-4. Also qualifying for the second round were Margaret Smith and Marie Toleman but they were defeated 12-4 by the Welsh pairing of Aled Hemphreys & Nick Evans. The title was won by Ireland’s Lisa Douglas & Jal Richardson who beat England’s Ollie Hipkiss & Ryan Knight 11-7.

02/12/15 World Pairs & Fours Preview

This weekend the Short Mat Players Tour host their annual World Pairs & World Fours in Bromsgrove which will see players from several countries face each other. On Saturday there is a total of 6 rinks containing players from Devon with players from Colyton, Exeter Nomads, Musbury, Sidbury, Uffculme, Winkleigh, Wonford, and Yarnscombe.

In the Pairs on Sunday the focus will be on last year’s winners Michael Ivings and James Smith who will be looking to become the first team to retain their title in an SMPT event. They will be joined by 12 other teams from Devon all vying for the coveted title. The action throughout the weekend can be followed here (World Fours) and here (World Pairs) and there will be a report on the website next week.

02/12/15 County Trophies Reminder

The County Competition secretary would like to remind all winners of last season’s County Competitions that trophies need to be returned in time for the AGM which will be held at the end of the season. The trophies can be passed on to any committee member or returned at any County competition that is held at ISCA. The next County Competition is the County Triples Finals day which is on the 12^th of December.

23/11/15 Devon v Somerset Report

The Devon County teams travelled to Donyatt on Sunday where they took on Somerset in their latest ICC fixture. The Premier team were looking for their third victory in a row and they got off to a great start in the first session with wins in both of the Singles and in one of the Pairs. Somerset were quick to bounce back in the second session of the day with Devon suffering a defeat in one on of the Triples and one of the Fours. Whilst the remaining Fours team drew and the other Triples won 17-7. This meant the half time score was 9-7 to Devon

In the third session the Singles and Pairs was again dominated by Devon with victories on all four mats. This ensured victory had been confirmed however Somerset were able to win three games in the last session with Devon only win coming with a 14-10 in one of the Fours. With Devon picking up the bonus points in the Singles and Pairs the final score was Devon 22 (196 shots) Somerset 17 (184 shots).

The A team were looking to maintain the form they found when they defeated Cornwall in the last match and like the Premier team they got off to a great start with victory on three out of the four mats. The only defeat coming in one of the Singles matches. Somerset came back into the match in the second session by winning one of the fours and one of the Triples and drawing the remaining Triples. This meant Devon only picked up three points and left the half time score at 9-7 to Devon.

The third session was split even with Devon winning both of the Pairs games but losing both of the Singles games. The final session of the day was again tight with both counties winning one Fours and one Triples. However with Devon only getting the bonus points in the Pairs the final score was Devon 19 (175 shots) Somerset 21 (191 shots).

The Devon Premier team sit on top of their group and know that unless Cornwall win by at least 24 points at Somerset in their next game qualification will be confirmed before Devon set foot on the mat for their final group game. The A team lie second in their group 3 points behind Cornwall, however Somerset who are 14 points behind have a game extra to play. The latest league tables can be found here. Devon final group game is at ISCA on the 20^th December when they face Somerset.

17/11/15 Devon v Somerset Team Announced

Devon are in action again on Sunday when both Devon Premier and Devon A take on Somerset at Donyatt. The Premier team will be looking to maintain the momentum they have after winning their first two group games against Cornwall. The A team will be looking for another big result after they got a much needed win in the home fixture against Cornwall. The address and link to a map of the venue can be found here and the game starts at 10am. The following players have been selected for the match.

A Team; Mark Allen (Sidbury), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Georgina Cleave (Christow), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Brab Hallowes (Colyton), John Horsham (Winkleigh), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell (Wonford), Jim Preston (Christow), Martin Sexton (Wick), Margaret Smith (Wonford), David Tarr (West Hill), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Oliver White (Loddiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell)

16/11/15 Joe Marshall Sadly Passes Away

We were saddened to hear of the death of Joe Marshall from Ottery St Mary SMBC. Joe was a long standing member of the club and will be remembered by lots of Devon bowlers.

12/11/15 Umpires Appeal

The County are always on the lookout for new umpires. Ken Griffiths our regional umpire manager has produced a poster advertising for new umpires. If players are interested a training session can be arranged, if there is significant interested a seminar at a local venue will be arranged. For more information the poster can be viewed and downloaded here.

09/11/15 Devon v Cornwall Result

On Sunday Devon hosted Cornwall at ISCA in the latest ICC fixture. The Devon Premier team entered the game knowing that a win would put them in prime position to qualify from the group. However Cornwall dominated the first session of games with Cornwall winning both the Singles as well as one of the Pairs. The remaining Pairs won 13-11 meaning Devon only picked up 2 points from the first session. Devon roared into life in the second session with both the Triples winning as well as one of the Fours. With the three victories it was back level at half time with the scores at 8-8.

Devon maintained the form in the third session where they only dropped one point with both the Singles wining as well as one of the Pairs, whilst the remaining Pairs team drew. With Devon winning all the bonus points available in the Singles and Pairs Devon needed just two points to claim victory. However Cornwall came back into the game in the final session by winning all four mats. Despite a sweep of defeats the Triples did enough to secure the two bonus points to ensure Devon’s victory. With Devon picking up the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Triples the Final Score was Devon 21 (190 shots) Cornwall 19 (166 shots)

Devon umpires Ken Spiller & Ian McLennan alongside County A Team Manager Robert Ivings and Premier Team Manager Richard Ivings

The A team were looking to bounce back after a defeat in the away fixture against Cornwall. The first session was however split evenly between the two teams with both teams winning one of the Singles and one of the Pairs. The Triples and Fours edged the second session with Devon securing wins in both of the Fours and drawing one of the Triples. This left the half time score at 9-7 to Devon

Devon edged the third session of the day with wins in one of the Singles and one of the Pairs and securing a draw in the other Pairs. Going into the last session the scores were level but Devon produced a dominant display by winning both of the Triples and one of the Fours as well as the bonus points in both disciplines. With Devon picking up the bonus points in the Triples and Fours the final score was Devon 24 (197 shots) Cornwall 16 (183 shots).

The Devon Premier team now sit top of their group with 1 point more than Cornwall. The A team are now in second place above Somerset. The latest league tables can be found here Devon next face Somerset away at Donyatt on the 22^nd November.

04/11/15 Changes To ESMBA Diary

The ESMBA have changed their diary slightly as a result of two teams qualifying from each group in the Inter County Championship. Due to this the Premier ICC Rinks final day which Devon have qualified for has been moved to the 5^th March. The 31^st of January, which was originally scheduled for the Rinks final will now be used for the ICC Premier and A Team Preliminaries. The updated diary can be found here.

03/11/15 Devon v Cornwall Team Announced

On Sunday Devon are back in action and face Cornwall at home at ISCA. The Devon Premier team will be looking to build on the dominant 29-11 win that was achieved in their last game when they were away to Cornwall. They enter the game knowing that another strong result will put them in a strong position to qualify. The A team will be looking to rediscover the form and spirit that was lacking in the last game when they were defeated by Cornwall. The match will start at 10am and spectators are welcome to come, watch and support the teams. The following players have been selected for the match.

Premier Team; Tom Archer (Christow), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Michael Ivings (Wonford) Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Simon Pridham (Wonford), Malcolm Sheen (Awliscombe), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), Anne Summers (Totnes Creameries), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Andy Thompson (Sidbury), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Mark Allen (Sidbury), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Brab Hallowes (Colyton), Bridget Hallowes (Colyton), John Horsham (Winkleigh), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell (Wonford), Jim Preston (Christow), Martin Sexton (Wick), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Craig Syder (Ottery St Mary), David Tarr (West Hill), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Oliver White (Loddiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell)

03/11/15 County/National Singles & Pairs Qualifiers

Last Sunday saw the remaining Singles and Pairs County/National Preliminaries take place at ISCA. Following the conclusion of these qualifiers it is now possible to confirm the players that have qualified for the finals. The qualifiers for both the Singles and Pairs as well as the Triples can be found on the Competitions page.

02/11/15 European Masters Review

This weekend saw Musbury players James Trott and Paul Pomeroy participate in the Short Mat Players Tour European Masters which took place in Belgium. With James topping his group and Paul coming second in his group both players qualified for the main cup. James progressed to the second round of the knockout section before he was knocked out by Gary Moore of Ireland. Paul continued his fine form in the Short Mat Players Tour reaching the Semi-final where he was beaten 12-6 by Sweden’s Joel Hager. Joel Hager went on to win the title by beating Gary Moore 14-5.

The Short Mat Players Tour continues in December with the World Pairs and World Fours with several Devon players competing in both events.

02/11/15 Cornwall v Somerset ICC Result

In the latest round of ICC fixtures Somerset travelled to Carnmoggas IBC to face Cornwall. Both A and Premier fixtures were tight affairs with the Somerset beating Cornwall 21-19 in the Premier team fixture and Somerset winning 22-18 in the A team fixture. Devon host Cornwall this coming Sunday at ISCA and the Devon team will be announced later this week.

21/10/15 ESMBA Announce Top Club Competition Details

The ESMBA have announced details of this year’s National short Mat Top Club which is held annually. Starting off with regional qualifiers in January, the final 8 teams will battle it out at the TLH Leisure Resort in Torquay over the weekend of 15^th -17^th April. More information and the entry form can be found here.

29/09/15 Devon v Cornwall Report

Devon started off their ICC campaign on Sunday when they traveled down to Cornwall. The Devon Premier team were quick out of the blocks and won both of the Singles and the Pairs in the first session. The second session did see a Cornwall revival when they were able to win both of the Fours and one of the Triples. However Devon’s sole win from that session was in the remaining Fours who won 25-6. This meant at the halfway stage Devon led 10-6. The third session was once again dominated by Devon with Devon gaining victories in both of the Pairs and once of the Singles, whilst Devon drew the remaining singles match. With the game secured after the third session, the final session was all about accruing as many points as possible and Devon picked up four more with victories in both of the Triples. With Devon picking up the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs, Triples and Fours the final score was Devon 29 (221 shots) Cornwall 11 (167 shots).

Unfortunately it was a different story for the A team who struggled in the first session of the day with defeats on all four of the mats. The second session did see an improvement with Devon confidently winning both of the Triples and one of the Fours. This left the half time score at 10-6 to Cornwall. Unfortunately Devon struggled in the third session as well, with Devon only picking up 2 shots in the Pairs with a 24-9 win. Devon entered the final session knowing if they were to turn the game around they needed wins on all four mats as well as the gain the bonus points from the Triples and Fours. Unfortunately Devon could not achieve this and only won both of the Triples. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Triples, the final score was Devon 14 (172 shots) Cornwall 26 (210)

With Somerset not playing their first game until the 1^st November where they face Cornwall, Devon Premier sit top of the table. Whilst Devon A languish at the bottom of the table, the group tables can be found here. Devon's next ICC fixture is on the 8^th November when they face Cornwall at ISCA.

29/09/15 Devon v Cornwall Team Announced

Devon start their ICC campaign on Sunday 4th October when they travel to Carnmoggas IBC to play Cornwall. Premier Team manager Richard Ivings has included several new faces from last years A team. The A Team manager Robert Ivings will be looking to defend the A team title that they won last following a 26-14 victory against Essex. The address and link to a map of the venue can be found here and the game starts at 10am. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Tom Archer (Christow), Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Georgina Cleave (Christow) Michael Ivings (Wonford) Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Simon Pridham (Totnes Creameries), Malcolm Sheen (Awliscombe), Irene Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Smith (Wonford), John Smith (Exeter Nomads), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Andy Thompson (Sidbury), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Carol Archer (Christow), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Joan Bolden (Cheriton Bishop), Brab Hallowes (Colyton), Bridget Hallowes (Colyton),John Horsham (Winkleigh), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell (Wonford), Martin Sexton (Wick), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Craig Syder (Ottery St Mary), David Tarr (West Hill), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Oliver White (Loddiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell)

28/09/15 Devon ICC Rinks Results

On Saturday the A team travelled to Donyatt to play in the qualifying stage of the ICC rinks. Unfortunately it was a tough first session for Devon where they faced Cornwall. Cornwall got off to a good start and although Devon did start to crawl the shots back as the game progressed they were only able to win one game out of the four rinks. However Cornwall had an advantage of 8 shots and with the overall shots in the session being the deciding factor Cornwall gained the two points on offer. The second game was against Herefordshire and Devon responded magnificently by winning by 21 shots.

This led to a showdown against Somerset which Devon had to win to have a chance of qualifying for the finals day. As in the first session Devon started off slowly and Somerset were able to take a strong lead. With the 12 ends in the match running away Devon did start pulling back, however going into the last end of the last game Devon had to pick up 8 shots and this proved to be too much. This ensured that both Cornwall and Somerset qualified for the finals day with Devon third in the group.

On Sunday it was the turn of the Premier team to travel to Donyatt. In the first session they faced Dorset. Despite all 4 matches been very close after the first few ends Devon were able to turn the screw and win on all four matches and won by 20 shots.

With only three teams in the group Devon had to deal with an extended break before they faced Herefordshire. Despite this break Devon were able to win 2 rinks and draw the remaining 2 rinks meaning they beat Herefordshire by 13 shots. Devon along with Dorset who also beat Herefordshire progress to the final day of the ICC rinks which will be held later in the season.

21/09/15 Devon ICC Rinks Team Announced

This weekend sees both the Devon Premier and A teams in action in the qualifying stage of the ESMBA’s new rinks competition. The A team will have to face local ICC rivals Cornwall and Somerset as well as Herefordshire on Saturday. Whilst the Premier team face Dorset and Herefordshire on Sunday. The venue for both days is Donyatt Indoor Bowls club in Donyatt, and more details can be found here. Both days start at 10am and the following players have been selected for the match.

Premier Team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Georgina Cleave (Christow) Michael Ivings (Wonford) Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Thomas Perris (Wonford), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Simon Pridham (Totnes Creameries), Malcolm Sheen (Awliscombe), James Smith (Wonford), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Andy Thompson (Sidbury), James Trott (Musbury)

A Team; Carol Archer (Christow), Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Joan Bolden (Cheriton Bishop), Brab Hallowes (Colyton), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell (Wonford), Margaret Smith (Wonford), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Craig Syder (Ottery St Mary), David Tarr (West Hill), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Oliver White (Loddiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell)

21/09/15 Irish Open Review

It was a disappointing weekend for Devon bowlers James Trott and Paul Pomeroy who were playing in the Irish Open in Belfast. James Trott finished 5th in his group with two wins he therefore entered the shield and reached the third round where he was beaten 10-11 by Catherine McCrossan. Paul Pomeroy finished fourth in his group and entered the plate before being beaten by Harry Wilson 13-7 in the first round. The Irish Open was eventually won by Dimitri Payne of Belgium who beat Andrew Morrison 7-8 in the final.

17/09/15 Irish Open Preview

This weekend Devon players James Trott and Paul Pomeroy (Musbury) travel to Belfast to participate in the Irish Open, the second Short Mat Players Tour event of the season. Both players will be looking to have successful weekends, in particular Paul Pomeroy will be looking to build on the success of the last SMPT tournament where he reached the final. Throughout the weekend their progress can be followed online here. There will be a report on the website early next week.

14/09/15 County/National Triples Preliminary Report

On Sunday ISCA hosted the County/National Triples Preliminaries. With 28 entrants each team was randomly drawn into one of 7 groups. The winner and runners up of each group and the highest 2 third place teams have qualified for the Triples final day to be played on the 12th December. The qualifying list can be found on the Competitions page.

14/09/15 County/National Fours Review

On Saturday ISCA hosted the first event of the county bowling season which saw 16 teams arrive for the County/National Fours. With less entries than in previous seasons there was no need to hold a qualifying day. As is usual in county competitions the round robin stage was held in the morning with the top two in each group going through to the quarter finals.

The first quarter final saw the Yarnscombe rink skipped by Elliott James dismantle the Exeter Nomads rink skipped by Dave Eastwood 12-5. The second quarter final was even more one sided with the reigning champions Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, James Trott and James Smith only dropping one end in a 12-1 victory against Graham Heaman’s Merton. The third quarter final saw the Totnes Creameries rink of Ane and Dave Summers, Jack Hurdon and Rose Morrison edge out Mark Allen, Richard Ivings, John Horsham & Lorraine Axtell 7-8. The final quarter final saw one of the Christow rinks skipped by Jim Preston win a tight game against Sidbury, with a 12-8 victory only being obtained after they picked up a three in the last end.

The first semi-final saw James Smith’s rink continue with their rampaging form by defeating Elliott James Yarnscombe rink 18-1. The other semi-final between Totnes Creameries and Christow was a much tighter affair. The Christow rink raced into an 8-0 lead after just three ends. However the Totnes Creameries rink fought back and after 10 ends the scores was tied at 11-11. The Totnes Creameries rink maintained the form they had found and were able to win the extra end.

The final was another tight affair with Totnes Creameries building an early 3 shot lead after three ends. However James Smith’s rink got back into the game after picking up a 6 in the fourth end. Despite this Rose Morrison’s Totnes Creameries rink continued to picked up shots and going into the final end they held a two shot lead. However going into the final two woods of the final end Rose found herself 3 down and her final bowl sailed through the head without changing the head meaning James Smith did not have to play his last bowl and Michael Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, James Trott and James Smith retained the same title they won last year.

09/09/15 DCSMBA Statement Regarding Dress Code

At their AGM ESMBA decided to review the dress code. It was suggested that the wearing of black trousers could be possible, but this change could only be made at a Rules Revision meeting so therefore this decision was put on hold. In view of this the County Committee have decided to allow the dress code for County Competitions ONLY as follows:- Mid-grey or black trousers/skirts but in a team game all the team must wear the same. This does NOT apply to ICC games or National Finals and at Open Competition the rules are set by the Club holding the tournament.

03/09/15 England v Devon A Preview

The A Team are rewarded on Sunday for their 26-14 victory against Essex in last year’s Inter County Championship final when they face England in a friendly. Also facing England will be Hampshire who won last year’s Premier team title. The match takes place at Church Gresley in Derbyshire.

28/08/15 DCSMBA Statement Regarding ICC Rinks

Due to a delay in knowing the exact details regarding the ICC Rinks regional preliminaries on the 26th/27th September there will be a delay in letting players know whether they have been selected. Once the county managers know all the details players will be contacted.

20/08/15 World Cup and UK Open Review

James Trott was one of the 4 players who represented England in the Short Mat Players Tour World Cup which was held on Friday. In the group stages England dismantled both the Netherlands and Norway 6-0 to ease into the semi-finals. In the semi finals England showed great form by demolishing Belgium 6-0. The other semi final saw favourites Ireland beaten by Sweden 4-2.

The final was a tight affair and came down to the final mat in the match between James Trott and Tommy Dahlgren with James Trott going into the final end needing to pick up a three. Unfortunately James was only able to pick up 2 meaning Sweden won the first SMPT World Cup.

Over the weekend the SMPT hosted their annual UK Open in Bromsgrove and it was a mixed weekend for the Devon bowlers who attended. In the plate competition both Dave Summers and Sue Young reached the Quarter Finals. Dave Summers was beaten 15-6 by Ireland’s Martin McNichol whilst Sue Young was beaten by Peter Roberts 10-9. James Trott and Andy Thompson both qualified for the cup knockout, however James Trott was beaten by Ireland’s supremo Joseph Beattie 10-5 and Andy Thompson was beaten 11-8 by Neil Davidson. Michael Ivings was beaten by Belgium’s Jonathon Payne 10-5 in the second round. However the performance of the weekend was by Paul Pomeroy who reached the final of the UK Open and after a tight match was beaten 12-11 by Ireland’s Gary McNabb.

29/09/15 World Cup and UK Open Preview

The Short Mat Players Tour open their season tomorrow with their new World Cup. The event sees the top 4 ranked players in the Order of Merit from each nation come together to face the other nations. As the 4th highest ranked English player James Trott (Musbury) will join Chris Mann, Dom Reed and Jack Pye to represent England and they will face the Netherlands and Norway in the group stages. The favourites for the title is Ireland with all 4 of their players in the top 6 of the Order of Merit.

On Saturday James Trott will be joined by a host of players from Devon in the Short Mat Players Tour annual UK Open. As usual progress throughout the weekend can be followed here and there will be a comprehensive report on the website next week.

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