AFTER a belated start to the season Okehampton Simmons Bowling Club has had a successful year.

Of the 35 friendly matches played, 19 were won, 17 lost, two were drawn and seven had to be cancelled due to the weather and state of the bowling green.

The men’s team won The Shield for the sixth time in seven years, a remarkable achievement. In the county competitions, Alan Mathias reached the final of the section four singles. Roger Pederick, Alan Mathias, Brian Vernon and John White also reached the final of section four rinks.

The ladies’ team have surpassed themselves. They won division two of the Exeter and District Ladies’ Over 50s Triples League, ensuring promotion to division one and the Nora Gee Cup against North Tawton.

Entering county competitions for the first time, Kath Mansell and Sue Hearne reached the quarter finals of the unbadged pairs and Janet Griffiths and Viv Kirkland won the Devon over 70s pairs.

The ladies most outstanding achievement was winning the Top Club for the first time since the competition began in 1992.

The next outdoor season at the club starts on Saturday, April 18, 2020.