BOVEY Tracey Bowling Club ladies Sue Johnson, Heidi Call and Chris Towle became Devon County Benevolent Triples champions after completing a match which had to be suspended and held over from late last season due to adverse weather conditions.

Against strong opposition from Okehampton, Bovey resumed well in the lead but were continually pegged back until the match was decided in a nail-biting climax with Heidi's last bowl on the final end winning it by one shot. Congratulations to Sue, Heidi and Chris.

The official green opening was finally able to be held on Sunday after being postponed twice due to waterlogging. The 30-odd members enjoyed an afternoon of unexpectedly warm, sunny weather for four rinks of friendly triples but it was just nice to get out in the open and mix with friends once again.

Bovey took the short trip to Chudleigh for a mixed friendly match where the heavy going accompanied by the cool, breezy weather made play more challenging. The rinks were shared two apiece with Chudleigh winning by 83 shots to 61 overall. D Bailey, S Martin, S Callard, K Lockett 10-21; S Davies, R Young, P Cridge, C Shorland 18-16; C Young, K Eldergill, J Ridgewell, R Bailey 22-20 (despite conceding an eight on one end!); L Cridge, J Ellis, K Callard, D Saunders 11-26.

The club mural at Bovey Tracey has been finished off and mounted on the wall behind the covered seating area overlooking the green. It comprises 36 tiles, most of which were painted by individual club members, and was fired in a kiln to 1050 degrees and mounted in a frame. It will provide a focal point and no doubt a talking point for visiting teams. Thanks to Kenny and Sarah Breame for being the motivation behind this project.

Bovey Tracey wish to draw attention once again to their Open Day this Saturday, May 4, with a view to attracting prospective new bowlers interested in playing lawn bowls. The event is open from 10am throughout the day until 4pm at the bowling club green between the cricket and tennis clubs in the Recreation Ground on Newton Road in Bovey Tracey.

Everyone is welcome and there is no dress code on the day, visitors just need to wear flat-soled shoes on the green and people can drop in and out when convenient. There will be three qualified coaches as well as club members available to give guidance on playing and provide information about the bowling club and its activities. The club is offering half price annual membership and ongoing coaching sessions to any new joining members. Refreshments will be provided throughout the day.