THE MILLERS were once again on the wrong side of a close game in the Totnes men’s Skittles League.

They looked to be in control after hitting a 65-pin seventh end and moving into a 22-pin lead, but two poor ends and spares from Pat Bradford and Paul Wakeham in Woodpeckers final leg of 56 took them down by two.

Wizzards will move into 2025 at the head of the table, Panthers managed to take three points for winning three ends but that was as good as it got as they lost out by 77.

Offcuts couldn’t hit the 400 mark last week, they brought in the big guns this week and hit 514 with Darren Gray (96) and Steve Tippett (91) doing most of the damage against Wrecks who at least finished with a three-spare end of 66.

Fords remain in second spot as Wasp failed to overcome being a man down. Stephen Hanney finished with three spares on the spin in his 86 for Wasp but Fords finished off 2024 with a two-spare 60 and a 22-pin win.

In the women’s league, All Star Amanda Hancock hit a two-spare 82 but was eclipsed by Fordetts’ Emily Stolworthy, with her 86, as Fordetts took their second win of the season.

Outsiders finish 2024 as league leaders after beating Alley Cats, Sam Hodge continued her fine form with a three-spare 85. Diamonds move into second spot with a three-pin win over Meadowbrooks.

An eighth end 13-spare from Diamond Sue Wallace proved to be the score that made the difference although Meadowbrooks Cherry Paul’s 85 was the games’ top score. Gems are third after beating Odd Westons. They sealed the deal finishing with a two-spare leg of 43.

Wishing all players a very happy Christmas and New Year. Take a look at the league’s new website over the holiday break at totnesskittles.org – see you in 2025!

SWITCHING lanes now to the latest news from Newton Abbot Bowls Club.

Last year, around 30 members of the club enjoyed a stay at The Carlton Hotel in Torquay and the same happened again this time around on December 15.

For £40, they were able to use the facilities including the likes of swimming and bowling during the stay, also included was entertainment from a singer and bingo for those that wanted to take part.

A three-course meal and breakfast was also part of the package so most of those who went would agree it was very good for the price and it was good to see a few new faces this time around.

Kate Kennedy and Jane Otieno deserve a special mention as, once they got up to dance, they stayed on the dance floor for just about the rest of the evening, showcasing very impressive levels of stamina!

Brian Waitman and his wife Sue were there and too always good to see Brian, as most know Brian, was unable to bowl outdoors during this season just gone, he is looking well and hopes to be bowling outdoors next season- everyone at the club will all be happy to see him back and playing when he is able.

This just leaves the club to wish members and readers a merry Christmas and a very happy New Year.