TWENTY-four members enjoyed the best of the sunshine as the new 2025 season got underway for Ipplepen Bowls Club.

Ipplepen Parish Council Chairman, Cllr David Palethorpe, together with Cllr Steve Rattlidge were welcomed to the club and were shown around the clubhouse by captain Shirley Northwood. The two councillors came along to officially open the new season, and both gentlemen were persuaded to roll up a few woods!

The spider competition was won by Martin Wilkes. For those not knowing what this is, the jack was placed in the centre of the green. All bowlers stood with one foot in the ditch and on the call of “1,2,3,go” they all played one bowl towards the jack.

Just when you think your bowl is nearing the jack, other woods come from another direction, and when all woods have come to rest, everyone is eager to see whose has actually finished closest to the jack. Congratulations to Martin on winning the bottle of whisky.

Four rinks of triples games were then played and the winning team would be the team with the biggest difference in score over their opponents. With a 29-shot difference, the team consisting of Elizabeth Church, Clare Morris and Mike Veale (photographed by Harry Northwood) were announced as the winners and presented with the Scapagrene Trophy.

Everyone then went into the clubhouse to be served a lovely afternoon tea by our “catering operatives” of Christine Brook and Carole Russell, with thanks being given to Joan Preston and Mo Stevens for all the homemade cakes. The afternoon concluded with a raffle taking place, with profits going to club funds.

The club will always welcome new members of all abilities, from the absolute beginner to the more experienced bowler. They are holding “free sessions” every Sunday in April from 10am to 12noon – so why not go along and see what the club is all about, and try your hand at bowls?

It is a lovely sport and a good way of meeting new friends. For more information, visit the website: Ipplepenbowlingclub.co.uk or contact Secretary Shirley on 01803 813980.