News

02/12/20 ESMBA Issue Tier System Statement

The ESMBA have tonight issued a statement regarding the tier system and Coronavirus. The rules for “safe bowls “certified clubs to be able to return as been tightened up even further. With Devon in tier 2 the rules may mean it is financially unviable for many “safe bowls” clubs to return. The statement is as follows:

ESMBA Coronavirus statement 1st December 2020

The ESMBA Management Committee have reviewed the current Government guidelines for the return tosport under each tier. At present the ESMBA are awaiting clarification for pairs play under Tier Two between different households/support bubbles anduntil such time as that is received the following conditions apply

Tier One – Medium Risk 

For ‘Safe Bowls’ certificated clubs that have affiliated members

• Affiliated members from family and support bubbles can play in approved Pairs format on each rink mat.
• Supervised Affiliated Under 18's and/or Disability specific short mat bowls are allowed to continue to operate

Tier Two - High Risk

For ‘Safe Bowls’ certificated clubs that have affiliated members

• Two affiliated members from different households and support bubbles may return for Singles play on each rink mat.
• Affiliated members from family and support bubbles can play in approved Pairs format on each mat.
• Supervised Affiliated Under 18's and/or Disability specific short mat bowls are allowed to continue to operate

Tier Three - Very High Risk

For ‘Safe Bowls’ certificated clubs that have affiliated members

• Affiliated members from Family and support groups may play in approved Pairs formats on each rink mat.
• Supervised Affiliated Under 18's and/or Disability specific short mat bowls are allowed to continue to operate
• There shall be no games played with different households or support bubbles.

We would remind all "Safe Bowls" clubs that it is for affiliated members only. Clubs that have failed to affiliate will have their status removed with immediate effect and are no longer authorised by the ESMBA to return to bowls under any Tier.

Barry Hedges on Behalf of the ESMBA Management Committee."

A hard copy of this statement can be found here

05/11/20 ESMBA Lockdown Statement

Following the DCSMBA news article yesterday the ESMBA have released a further statement confirming that all bowls is temporary suspended until the 2^nd December. Their statement can be found here

04/11/20 Latest Lockdown Pauses Short Mat Bowls Return

Short mat bowls once again is paused tomorrow with the start of the government’s latest lockdown restrictions which is planned to last for four weeks.  The lockdown will come as a blow to the ESMBA route map which had planned to ramp up the return of bowls with  inter club activities being allowed to place in November between clubs with a safe bowls certificate.

20/10/20 Safe Bowl Status Update

Following the introduction of the Government Tier system to combat the rise in Coronavirus, the ESMBA have released the following statement

"The Government have now introduced a tier system for the Country, whilst the ESMBA await further updates from the DCMS and Sport England, the Management Committee have decided to err on the sideof caution. With effect of 17th October 2020 the rules for clubs in the following tiers are as follows:

Tier 1 Postcodes can continue as per the approved protocols.

Tier 2 Postcodes can only allow single households or social bubbles per rink mat, these members MUST NOT mix with any other individuals.

Tier 3 Postcodes Sport and physical activity can be played as per the guidance under Tier 2.These restrictions are put in place not just to protect the bowls family but the wider communities that we play and live in.

We hope that these restrictions are only temporary and as soon as we have agreed procedures in place to play again, we will update you all."

In addition to the above information, The DCSMBA would like to remind clubs that they can only return to bowling, once they have a safe bowl status which they have to apply for. More information can be found here

13/10/20 Safe Bowl Status and Affiliation

The County Safeguarding Officer Eric Pavey would like to remind clubs that Safe bowl status and affiliation go hand in hand.It is only clubs that are affiliated to the ESMBA via Devon County who can apply for safe bowl status. In addition we would like to remind club secretaries that Affiliations/registrations for the coming season are now due. For further information on Registrations please contact County Secretary Barrie Goodchild

26/09/20 ESMBA Release Further Guidance Following Government Rule Changes

Following the Governments recent amendments to the coronavirus rules relating to ‘The rule of 6’, The ESMBA issue the following guidance on its safe bowls certificate.

Clubs with “Safe Bowls” status and operating on ONE MAT will be permitted to continue as their approved documentation.

Clubs with “Safe Bowls” status on MULTIPLE MATS will be permitted to continue but with additional conditions. The prime consideration is that each mat is classed as an individual group, each group MUST NOT have ANY interaction of any kind with any other and must always strictly maintain 2m social distance.

As you can imagine this will have to be strictly managed and additional restrictions will have to be adhered to, detailed guidelines will be issued to Safe Clubs via the safeguarding officers.

ONLY CLUBS affiliated with the ESMBA and having achieved “Safe Bowls” status can operate within the Government guidelines. Clubs not complying with affiliation or “Safe Bowls’ status will be classed as a social gathering thusbowling illegally. The ESMBA will take disciplinary action against members that return to bowls without “Safe Bowls” status.

Furthermore, as per the ESMBA Route Map, the ESMBA will allow clubs with ‘Safe Bowls’ status to move to triples per mat group if space permits. Additional guidance on the specifics of this and the authorisation process will beissued by the county safeguarding officers. It is important that clubs proceed to triples only after completing at least 2 session of pairs.

We again remind the members that the ESMBA Emergency Fund is available for members to apply for. The first round of applications closes on the 30th September 2020.

The Government recognise the importance of members being affiliated to National Governing Bodies, and that these bodies are best placed to manage and monitor the protocols of safe return to sport. As such they only recognisethose clubs that have achieved the NGB Published guidance and protocols.

It is important to point out that many hours have been put into the ESMBA “Safe Bowls” scheme and that all applications are judged on the same process and protocols. The ESMBA Risk Assessment template must becompleted in detail and although reference can be made to the supporting documents, the statement in them must be written on the Risk Assessment.

Barry Hedges

ESMBA Chairman On behalf of the ESMBA management committee

A hard copy of this statement can also be found on the ESMBA website here

17/08/20 ESMBA Publish Return To Short Mat Bowls Roadmap & Action Plan

The ESMBA have now announced that the Road map for the return of Short Mat bowls has been approved by the department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport. Short mat bowls has been given the green light to start resuming in some form from September. However, there is to be strict adherence to Covid-19 compliance rules. These are laid out further below.

Before clubs can resume, they must liaise with the county Safeguarding Officer (Eric Pavey: eric.pavey@hotmail.com) if they wish to proceed with an application to start bowling. Clubs will need to sign a declaration  that all the compliance guidelines are met and once it has been confirmed that they have been met a license for that club will be issued to show the club has approved safe bowls status.

Below is a brief outline of the road map:

1. All International matches will be cancelled until March 2021 (re arranged World Championships)

2. The diary will be clear of England days and games (to enable Counties to use these later in the year when safe to do so).

3. The ESMBA National Championships 2019/20 will be postponed until April 2021. There will be no qualifiers for the Main Nationals this season.

4. (September 2020) Clubs will be able to open for social roll ups, maximum four per mat providing they have met the criteria laid down by the ESMBA, and approved to do so.

 5. (October 2020) Clubs will be able to increase their participation from four to six per mat, if they can comply with the then social distance guidance.

 6. (November 2020) Inter club activities will be permitted. (guidelines will be issued nearer the time).

 7. (December 2020) County Open competitions will be permitted (guidelines will be issued nearer the time).

8. (January 2021) The ESMBA will look to run knock out and open Competition based at Club level.

 9. (January/February 2021) Counties will be able to run National Over 55s and Mixed Fours qualifiers.

 10. The ESMBA membership will remain due for the Association. There will be a reduced playing diary at National level but the Administration of the Association will remain the same. Both the ESMBA and County Associations will be there for the support of their members. The Personal Accident insurance will still cover personal Accidents whilst playing and in official capacity of Short Mat Bowls.

11. The ESMBA is to allocate a large proportion of the coming seasons membership fee to a Covid19 fund and invite applicants to apply for funding to ensure their clubs are compliant and remain active. (Details below).

Full details of the ESMBA COVID-19 Action plan, Compliance checklist, Risk assessments and the associated documents can be found below:

• ESMBA Covid- 19 compliance guidelines
  
• ESMBA Covid-19 Action plan
  
• ESMBA Risk Assessment
  
• ESMBA Track & Trace Form
  
• ESMBA Venue Checklist
  

Reminder: All the relevant documents must be approved by the club Safeguarding officer and counter signed by the County Safeguarding officer (Eric Pavey: eric.pavey@hotmail.com) before a license is issued.

In addition the ESMBA have announced and produced guidance on the ESMBA Community Emergency fund which has been set up to aid clubs for the extra expense incurred in plating bowls in this Covid-19 world. The aim of the fund is to sustain and grow registered bowlers. The fund will help fund the following:

a)Expenses essential to the maintain the operational viability of the organisation in playing short mat bowls such as the hire cost of extra sessions to enable all members to participate, hygiene essentials, and bowls lifters 

b) Activities to kickstart short mat bowls in your local area for example advertising costs and if practical open sessions

c) A contribution to your local club, league or County Association membership fee. To be eligible you must be able to demonstrate that your ESMBA registered player numbers are at least maintained at the 2019/20 level. This would be measured after the deadline for registrations i.e. end of November. This is likely to be in the second phase of funding based on the measurement point

d) Other ideas and expenses that are as a result of the Covid pandemic e.g. completion of a risk assessment.

More information on this fund can be found on the link below:

• ESMBA Community Emergency Fund
  

21/07/20 ESMBA New Statement Confirms Clubs Remain Closed Until Guidance Is Approved

The ESMBA have made the following statement regarding the starting of Short mat Bowls

“Following a meeting of the Management Committee this weekend, a ‘Route Map’ to bowling again and the basis of our guidance notes was agreed. These documents are being updated and prepared for sending to Sport England for approval as per Government guidelines. It is hoped that these will be sent over in the next week.

Until such time as these documents are approved and the Government give us the consent to start bowling again. The recommendation to clubs and association is to remain closed for the safety of its members. The ESMBA does not support clubs resuming at this time.

Once these documents are approved they will be uploaded to the ESMBA Web site with full instructions of how to progress with getting your club Covid-19 safe and approved for opening again.

Barry Hedges

 ESMBA Chairman on behalf of the ESMBA Management Committee”

A hard copy of this statement can be found here.

The DCSMBA support the ESMBA and would like to emphasise that Short Mat Bowls clubs throughout the County should remain closed until a roadmap and guidelines have been approved, published and followed.

01/07/20 Latest ESMBA Statement Regarding Covid 19

The ESMBA have issued the following statement with regards to the continuing Coronavirus outbreak

Dear County Secretary, Back in March when the decision was taken to postpone events due to the Coronavirus outbreak, no one imagined four months on our lives would still be so affected by it.

 The Government is slowly allowing activities to start again, albeit with restrictions. But indoor activities like Short Mat Bowls are still being advised to stay closed as are many of the venues we all use. As such the ESMBA strongly recommends that all its Counties and clubs follow this until it is safe to do so and remain closed.

01/07/20 Latest ESMBA Statement Regarding Covid 19

The ESMBA have issued the following statement with regards to the continuing Coronavirus outbreak

Dear County Secretary, Back in March when the decision was taken to postpone events due to the Coronavirus outbreak, no one imagined four months on our lives would still be so affected by it.

 The Government is slowly allowing activities to start again, albeit with restrictions. But indoor activities like Short Mat Bowls are still being advised to stay closed as are many of the venues we all use. As such the ESMBA strongly recommends that all its Counties and clubs follow this until it is safe to do so and remain closed.

The ESMBA is having ongoing conversations with its various partners and venues to try and find a safe way to start playing again in line with Government guidelines. We can now see that with the cap on the number of competitors within a confined space, that National and County events will struggle to happen at least in the next couple of months. It is expected that there will now be a gradual restarting of our sport, likely to be around September/October with clubs going back to practice before leagues, county and National events start to happen.

 The ESMBA management committee are looking at possible guidance for clubs and then Counties but are waiting for Government information to be issued, so that we are in line with these. We understand it is going to be a very difficult time for members to continue so the ESMBA are looking at ways to help both professionally and financially to its members via its County set up. We are also looking at the diary ahead and areas where changes can be made to allow for a later or reduced start to the season. Information will follow as details are confirmed.

This is a first in all our lifetimes and has been a very testing time for many of us. Hard mentally for many of our members that rely on our sport for social interaction. But after making such a sacrifice with social distancing and shielding as we have so far, we owe it to ourselves and others not to rush back now. The positive selling points of portability and relatively small space required to play Short Mat Bowls, together with the Government guidelines make the situation of managing a safe return very complex.

Barry Hedges ESMBA Chairman on behalf of the ESMBA Management Committee.

A hard copy of this statement can be found here

26/06/20 DCSMBA Statement Regarding Registrations

We have been informed by James Smith the ESMBA Registration Secretary that the ESMBA are currently holding off sending out registrations for the coming season. At present government guidelines do not allow for the return of Short mat bowls. Once it becomes clearer and it is known when the new season will start the ESMBA will provide us with more information

19/05/20 Coach Bowls Launch Online Adult Safeguarding In Bowls Course

Coach Bowls have launched a new online Adult safeguarding in Bowls course. The sessions are priced at £25 each and there are several dates at the end of May and throughout June.  A flyer has been produced by Coach Bowls with more details and can this be found here. Spaces for these courses are limited and can be booked on the Coach Bowls website. 

19/03/20 ESMBA Rearrangement Of Nationals & ICC

The ESMBA have issued the following statement with regards to the rescheduling of the Nationals and the ICC Semi Finals and Finals.

Following the decision to postpone all events due to COVID-19. The ESMBA have explored the various possibilities to re arrange these games. To prevent major disruption to the County diaries, it has been felt best to use the ESMBA allocated weekends. So, re arranged dates are as follows:

The National Finals will now be played on the 3rd/4th/5th/6th September 2020 at Melton Mowbray IBC.

The ICC Semi Finals will be played on 12th September 2020 at Melton IBC and one other to be confirmed. The ICC Secretary will be in direct contact with Counties involved as to their playing venues.

The ICC Final will be played on Sunday 13th September 2020 at Melton IBC.

We understand that playing a Semi Final and Final of a County Championship on the same weekend is not ideal but unless we start playing in the summer months or rearranging an already congested diary to accommodate it with major disruption there is no other alternative. Most of the budget hotel chains offer rooms that you can cancel up to 4pm, so there are accommodation options available for these wanting to prepare to stay over.

The majority of the hotel chains have amended their cancellation policies, and most should have no problem changing or refunding their dates.

We are currently looking at possible dates for the U18s National Finals and England Trials, and will update you all shortly.

AGM paperwork is not due to be distributed until 1st June 2020, so a decision on the July AGM will be taken mid May, when hopefully we will have a better understanding of things.

Barry Hedges ESMBA Chairman

A hard copy of this statement can be found here.

 

16/03/20 DCSMBA Statement

Tonight the DCSMBA would like to make the following statement.

Following the advice from the ESMBA and the current government recommendations with regards to the Coronavirus, the Devon County Association is postponing all county events for the immediate future, this in the short term effects the County 5’s which is now suspended.

In addition the association is recommending that short mat bowls at all levels within Devon is suspended until further notice. This decision is obviously not made lightly however the safety of our members are at the forefront of our minds.

Our members are advised to follow governmental and NHS advice which can be found at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

A further announcement will be made with regards to the AGM once known.

A hard copy of this statement can be found here.

13/03/20 Coronavirus Statement

Due to the Coronavirus outbreak, the ESMBA have made a further statement to the one that was posted earlier this month. It states:

"Dear County Secretaries Based on UK Government policy and NHS guidance the ESMBA Management Committee has decided to postpone all forthcoming events until further notice starting with the ICC semi finals on 14/15 March.

The ESMBA Management Committee has also taken into account the ageing player population and that the events will be held indoors in a close defined area. The current thinking is to re-arrange the diary for September 2020 and play the ICC and National Championships in the first two weeks of September.

The ESMBA Management Committee is also advising County Associations to postpone events where numbers exceed 100 attendees.

Barry Hedges ESMBA Chairman"

A hard copy of this statement can be found here

We would like to reiterate to our players that the National championships have been postponed and once we have more information this will be passed onto players. In addition we would like clubs to take note of the advise on postponing events and tournaments where numbers exceed 100 attendees.

The 2020/21 diary is being worked on but with this announcement, the fact that this is an ever changing situation and the ESMBA diary will be changing, the announcement of the DCSMBA diary will  be made when the situation is clearer.

09/03/20 National Mixed Fours & National Over 55 Pairs Review

It was disappointment for all the Devon teams at this weekend’s national events. On the Saturday the National Mixed Fours took place with Devon having 4 teams involved. Unfortunately, Musbury (Kirsty Jordan, Michael Ivings & Emma & James Trott) and Sidbury (Carol Osbourne, Kim Wright, Colin Palmer & Eric Pavey) both failed to get out of the group stage. In the first knock out round Wonford (Maggie Smith, Adam Perris, John & Shirley Parnell) were knocked out by Hertfordshire. The remaining rink (Pam & Marie Toleman, Richard Williams & Nick Wyatt) made it to the quarter finals before being knocked out by Avon. The National Mixed Fours was won by Herefordshire who Beat North Yorkshire in the final.

The National Pairs on the Sunday was equally disappointing. Both Hilary Iley & Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads) and Brian & Elaine Clemants (Great Torrignton) both failed to get out of the group stage. The remaining Devon pair of Graham James and Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh) made it to the first knockout stage before being knocked out 10-5 by Cornwall The National Over 55’s was won by  Northamptonshire who beat Hampshire 8-6 in the final.

04/03/20 National Clothing Reminder & Preview

With this seasons National Championships starting this weekend with the Mixed Fours and Over 55 Pairs, the ESMBA have released a statement regarding clothing.

"The ESMBA Dress Code is in force at all stages of the National Championships. In the pairs, triples, fours, Over 55s and mixed fours must be dressed in the same attire.
 Men • White shirt with collar, county or club tops or matching polo shirt, MID GREY or Black trousers will be permitted. All players must wear the same colour (no jeans or combats)
 Women • White blouse with collar, county or club tops or matching polo shirt,• MID GREY or Black skirts not split above the knee, crop or tailored trousers will be permitted. All players must wear the same colour (no jeans or combats)
 Footwear • Only footwear manufactured by recognised bowls manufacturers must be worn on the mat and they must be changed into at the venue
 Club Colours • Shirts, blouses and polo shirts may be in club, league or county colours – England shirts may not be worn. • No names, initials or logos will be permitted on the back of any garment, unless previously approved by the ESMBA • Any names, initials or logos must be in keeping with the size of the ESMBA logo and no bigger than the breast pocket on a shirt, unless previously approved by the ESMBA • In disciplines with more than one player, ALL players must be dressed in the same Colours

Please be aware that non-compliance with the Dress Code may result in the offending player being asked to leave the bowling mat"

A hard copy of this statement can be found here

As previously stated the Nationals start this weekend with the National Mixed Fours on Saturday and the National Over 55 Pairs on Sunday before concluding with the remaining events in April. A list of teams from Devon in these events can be found here

03/03/20 Coronavirus Statement

Following the spread of the Coronavirus, the ESMBA have issued the following statement.

"3rd March 2020 ESMBA and Coronavirus – Please read and be aware of your responsibilities.
 
The ESMBA is about to enter into its busiest time of the season, with multiple events where members throughout the Country will travel and meet for the game of bowls.
 
This period of time is when the Country and the World are facing probably the Virus of a generation. COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is affecting many people throughout the World. It will no doubt at some stage touch someone we know or within the Bowls family.
 
The ESMBA has a duty of care to its members and we take this very seriously. We therefore will be supporting and following the guidelines as laid out by Public Health England. These will obviously be changing as the national situation changes and we will monitor these closely.
 
At present advice is to take basic hygiene measures, individuals should be washing their hands for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap on a regular basis. To cough and sneeze into a tissue and dispose of it, if a tissue is not available, the crook of your arm should be used. Many people also feel safer wearing face masks and avoiding personal contact (like shaking hands), so please at this time don’t be offended by this. Individuals are only trying to protect themselves and others from the spread of the virus but to continue with a normal daily life
 
If you have been in contact with someone that is suspected of having the virus or have travelled from one of the listed affected areas in the last 14 days, then you should be self-isolating for a period of 14 days. Please see the following link for areas affected 
 
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-specified-countries-and-areas/covid-19-specified-countries-and-areas-with-implications-for-returning-travellers-or-visitors-arriving-in-the-uk
 
The ESMBA must insist that for the protection and precaution of all its members that the Public Health England guidelines are followed. If anyone has been in contact with or travelled back to the UK in the last 14 days please email admin@esmba.co.uk so we can make the necessary arrangements for replacements.
 
There will be no repercussions for anyone withdrawing from events due to COVID-19, but individuals that knowingly break Public Health England Guidelines and risk others safety may face disciplinary action.
 
The ESMBA Management Committee appreciate your cooperation in this matter.
 
Barry Hedges  on behalf of ESMBA Management Committee"

A hard copy of this statement can be found on the ESMBA site here

02/03/20 Devon v West Midlands Review

The Devon Premier team travelled to Solihull on Sunday where they took on the West Midlands in the ICC Quarter finals. Devon started off very slowly in the first session and were beaten on all four mats in the first session. Devon were better in the second session where Devon won of of the Triples and one of the Fours but lost on the other two mats. This meant a Devon trailer 12-4 at the half way stage.

The third session was again dominated by the West Midlands with Devon only picking up a win on one of the Pairs matches. However due to the  West Midlands dominance they secure the bonus points in both the Singles and Pairs. The last session saw Devon again struggle and they only won one of the Fours losing on all the other mats. With Devon only winning the bonus points in the Fours the final score was West Midlands 30 Devon 10.

27/02/20 Devon  v West Midlands Preview

This weekend sees the Devon Premier team face the West Midlands this Sunday in the ICC Quarter Finals. The West Midlands are the current ICC champions and this year topped their group winning 7 out of their 8 game. Details of the venue can be found here and selected players are asked to be at the venue for 9:30. The following players have been selected for the match.
Premier Team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh),  Luis Inacio (Bere Alston),   Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Graham James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe),  Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries),  Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads),  Margaret Smith (Wonford), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads)  Kim Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow), Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

24/02/20 Devon v Cheshire Review

On Sunday Devon A faced Cheshire in the Quarters finals of the ICC. The first session was very even with both Singles winning and both Pairs losing. However, Cheshire took control of the match in the second where they won on all four of the mats. This left the half time score 10-4 to Cheshire. Devon rearranged their team in the second half but Cheshire still maintained control of the game in the third session with wins in both of the Singles and both of the Pairs. This ensured Cheshire won the match but Devon did secure a win in one of the Fours and a draw in one of the Triples in the final session. With Cheshire winning all the bonus points available the final score was Devon 7 Cheshire 33.  Next week it’s the turn of the Premier team when they face last years ICC champions West Mids in the Quarter Finals.

20/02/20 Devon A v Cheshire Preview

Devon A travel to Solihull on Sunday where they take on Cheshire in what is sure to be a mouth watering tie in the ICC Quarter Finals. Cheshire booked their place in the quarter finals with a 29-11 win  against Hertfordshire and will be provide a stern test for Devon. Details of the venue can be found here and selected players are asked to be at the venue for 9:15. The following players have been selected for the match.

A Team; Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Ava Cattell (Christow), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Bill Crilly (Colebrooke), Carol Dummett (Bere Alston), Barrie Goodchild (Exeter Nomads), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Rob Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell. (Wonford), Brad Rundle (Christow), Chloe Rundle (Christow), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Oliver White (Loddiswell) Richard White (Loddiswell),  Sean Woodley (Christow),

17/02/20 AGM Details

The DCSMBA would like to announce that this seasons AGM will take place at Clyst St Mary Village Hall on the 17^th April with a 7:30pm start. Details of the venue can be found here.

17/02/20 Devon A v Worcestershire

On Sunday Devon A travelled to the Bristol Indoor Bowel centre where they faced Worcestershire in the ICC Preliminaries. The first session was a battle with Devon winning both of the Singles and Worcestershire winning both of the Pairs. The second session saw Devon take the advantage with victories in both of the Fours and one of the Triples. This left the half time score at 10-6 to Devon.

After a gorgeous lunch spread Devon resumed their dominance in the third session where they gained victories in both of the Singles and one of the Pairs. Devon went into the last session knowing they only needed four points to secure victory. Devon though went further than this and secured wins on all four mats . With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles, Triples and Fours the score was Devon A 30 points (221 shots) Worcestershire 10 points (153 shots). Devon A now face Cheshire in the quarter finals next Sunday at Solihull. The team will be announced later in the week.

10/02/20 Devon A v Worcestershire Preview

Devon A travel to the Bristol Indoor Bowls Centre on Sunday where they take on Worcestershire in the Inter County Preliminary round with a place in the quarter finals at stake. Worcestershire won 5 games in their group narrowly pipping Herefordshire to top spot. Details of the venue can be found here and selected players are asked to be at the venue for 9:15. The following players have been selected for the match.

A Team; Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Ava Cattell (Christow), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Bill Crilly (Colebrooke), Carol Dummett (Bere Alston), Barrie Goodchild (Exeter Nomads), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Rob Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell. (Wonford), Brad Rundle (Christow), Chloe Rundle (Christow), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Oliver White (Loddiswell) Richard White (Loddiswell),  Sean Woodley (Christow), Rachel Wright (Sidbury)

10/02/20 English Masters Review

This weekend saw the Short Mat Players Tour Return with the English Masters which was held in Chelmsford. There were three entrants from Devon and each player were as usual in SMPT events split into groups of 6 which guarantees players 5 group games and at least one knockout game. Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads) finished 4th in his group and so despite missing out in the main knockouts he was entered into the plate where he lost 14-5 to Aaron Clare in the first round.

James Trott (Musbury) came 2^nd in his group after getting four victories. Thus, James entered the main knockout stages, however his progress was halted in the first round following a 9-8 defeat to Alistair McCrea. Elliott James also reached the main knock out stages following 4 wins in the group stage. Elliott managed to reach the quarter final stage before he was defeated 14-5 by Joseph Beattie. Dorset’s Alex Kley won the title after over coming Lawrence Moffat 15-3 in the final. The Short Mat Players Returns to Belfast in April for the final tournament of the SMPT season.

20/01/20 National Mixed Fours Qualifier Review

On Sunday the last of this season’s national qualifiers took place with the National Mixed Four Qualifiers. There were 13 teams this year, so teams were split into four groups with the winners and runners up qualifying for the knockout stages. The tournament was won by Pam & Marie Toleman, Richard Williams and Benny Bass who beat their fellow Wonford team Maggie Smith, Adam Perris, John & Shirley Parnell in the final.

Also qualifying for the National Mixed Fours were the Sidbury quartet of Carol Osborne, Kim Wright, Colin Palmer and Eric Pavey as well as Kirsty Jordan, Michael Ivings, Emma & James Trott from Musbury.

14/01/20 Devon v Cornwall Review

Devon hosted Cornwall in the final ICC group fixture with both teams harbouring hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages. The Premier team went into the match knowing that a win or draw against Cornwall would enough to ensure passage in to the knock out rounds. Devon edged the first session with 5 points following victories in both of the pairs and drawing one of the Singles matches. Devon took control of the match in the second session with victories in both of the Fours and one of the Triples, whilst the remaining Triples finished 14-14. This meant at the half way stage Devon led 12-4.

It was another strong session for Devon after lunch with Devon securing wins in both of the Singles and one of the Pairs. With Devon securing the bonus points in the Pairs and sharing the Singles bonus points they had passed the 20 point threshold that they needed to win the match. The final was evenly split between the two counties with Devon winning both of the Fours and Cornwall winning both of the Triples. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Pairs and Fours and sharing the Singles the final score was Devon 27 (217 shots) Cornwall 13 (188 shots) which was enough to ensure Devon finished second behind Dorset and qualify for the knock out stages.

The Devon A team went into the match knowing that as long as Somerset (who were playing group leaders Dorset) did not get 14 points then them they would qualify for the knock out stages.  It was a perfect start to the match for Devon with a clean sweep of four victories with wins in both of the Singles and both of the Pairs. The second session was much more even with Devon winning both of the Triples but losing both of the Fours. This meant Devon led 12-4 at the halfway stage.

The third session was again dominated by Devon with victories in one of the Singles and both of the Pairs. With the match secured Devon stepped up again and finished with a perfect session with victories in both of the Triples and both of the Fours. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Triples the final score was Devon 32 (210 shots) Cornwall 8 (151 shots). The result was enough for Devon to finish second with Dorset just piping Devon to top spot. But it was enough to ensure Devon qualified for the knockout stages. Both teams now wait for the draw to be announced to see who they face next.

14/01/20 County/National Triples Final

On Saturday ISCA played host to the National and County Triples with the 16 teams who had qualified back in October. The teams were split into four equal groups and after the round robin the top two teams in each group qualified for the knock out stages. After several knock out rounds the final was held between George & Tony Main and Elliott James (Yarnscombe) and Chloe Rundle, Carol Dummett and Barry McPhilips (Christow & Bere Alston). The Yarnscombe trio were able to take an early lead and they were able to keep this lead for the rest of the game and thus became County Triples champions.

County Triples Winners Elliott James, George Main & Tony Main

09/01/20 Devon v Cornwall Preview

The Devon County teams both lie second in their respective groups and know that a positive result will see both teams qualify for the main knockout stages. Players have been asked to be at ISCA for 9:15.  The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston),   Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Graham James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe),  Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Carol Osborne (Sidbury), Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Wonford), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads),  Margaret Smith (Wonford), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Trevor Tregillus (Christow),  Kim Wright (Sidbury), Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

A Team; Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Ava Cattell (Christow), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Bill Crilly (Colebrooke), Carol Dummett (Bere Alston), Barrie Goodchild (Exeter Nomads), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Rob Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell. (Wonford), Brad Rundle (Christow), Chloe Rundle (Christow), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Richard White (Loddiswell),  Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Sean Woodley (Christow), Rachel Wright (Sidbury)

06/01/20 Adult Safeguarding Course

We would like to make members aware that there is an  course in adult safeguarding in Bowls on the 18th February at the Institute at Ottery St Mary from 1pm to 4pm. The course costs £30 and runs from 1pm-4pm. For more information please click here to view the poster. It is recommended that at least one member from each club should attend one of these courses

06/01/20 National/County Singles & National/County Pairs

We On Saturday ISCA played host to the final stages of the National/County Singles. After the days play the final was between Benny Bass (Uffculme) and George Main (Yarnscombe). George Main went into the last end ahead and despite Benny's best effort George was able to keep hold of his lead.

03/01/20 National Allocations

Devon have received their allocations for the National Finals which are held in March and April. Devon have received 4 places in the Singles, Pairs, Triples, Fours, Mixed Fours and Over 55 Pairs. Whilst we have 2 places in the under 18's. The Under 18’s final takes place on the 18th April. The Mixed Fours and the Over 55’s take place on the weekend of the 7th/8th March. The remaining Nationals takes place from the 2nd April at Melton Mowbray.

19/12/19 Devon County Team Uniform Change Next Season

From the 2020/21 season the Devon County team (both Premier and A) will be changing their uniform. The teams will be changing from wearing mid grey trousers to black trousers.

16/12/19 Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples Review

This Sunday ISCA played host to the ho! Ho! Ho! Triples. A competition that was dreamed up by our previous chairman Trevor Tregillus. Many of the 30 teams that entered were in the Christmas spirit with many dressing up.  There are several pictures from the event on our facebook page.

 

Despite the competition over running slightly everyone enjoyed themselves and the competition was won by Barrie Goodchild, Richard Williams and Benny Bass.

08/12/19 Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples

On the 15th December sees the Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples take place at ISCA. There are currently a few spots remaining and so if you are interested in participating please contact Caroline Pavey (Caroline1901@hotmail.com) or Fred Oliver (fredoliver@freenetname.co.uk).

As usual there will be a raffle on the day.  We would like to invite players/attendees to bring a raffle prize along to supplement the draw so that we can end the year with a bang. Players are asked to be at ISCA at 9am.

05/12/19 DCSMBA Statement

Trevor Tregillus has resigned as the DCSMBA chairman. The County Committee would like to thank Trevor for his efforts. If you have any matters in concerning this then please get in touch with any committee member. These details can be found here.

02/12/19 World Fours and Pairs Review

This weekend also saw the SMPT host their annual world Fours and World Pairs at Chelmsford. On Saturday in the World Fours there was two teams with Devon players involved. The Yarnscombe quartet of Elliott James, Mike Avery, George and Tony Main struggled in their group and were entered into the plate where there reached the quarter finals before losing 9-5. Last years winners Mike Ivings, James Trott (Musbury), ex Devonian Simon Pridham and Craig Burgess (Essex) topped their group with 3 wins and entered the main knockout stages where they reached the Quarter finals before 8-6.

On Sunday it was the turn of the World Pairs and there was three teams consisting of players from Devon. Both Elliott James and George Main and  James Trott and Michael Ivings finished second int heir group but it was enough to ensure both teams entered the main knockout stages. Both teams reached the second round before both losing 12-4 and 11-4 respectively.  Tony Main and Mike Avery topped their group and also reached the main knockout draw. They also reached the second round before they were narrowly beaten 10-9.

02/12/19 Somerset v Devon Review

Devon travelled to Somerset’s new home venue on Sunday in their latest ICC fixture. The Devon Premier team went into the game knowing that they had the opportunity to take over Cornwall position and sit in second spot going in the last round of fixtures. However, it was a slow start by Devon in the first session with Devon only gaining two points following a 1-13 win in one of the Singles. The second session was evenly split with Devon losing both Triples matches but winning both of the Fours matches. This left the half time score 10-6 to Somerset. The third session was again split evenly with one of the Pairs winning 20-6 and one of the Singles edging their game 13-12. Following the pattern of the previous two sessions the last session was split evenly with Devon winning one of the Fours and one of the Triples but losing on the other two mats. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Fours the final result was Somerset 24 (212 shots) Devon 16 (186 shots). Despite being defeated, the result meant Devon leapfrogged into second spot above Cornwall.

Devon A sat in second spot ahead of Somerset and were merely looking to consolidate their position in the table. The first session was a dream start with Devon winning on all four mats. However, Somerset stirred into life in the second session and Devon only won one match with a 1511 victory in one of the Triples. This left the half time score at 10-6 to Devon. Somerset continued their comeback in the third session with Devon gaining just three points following an 11-11 draw in one of the Pairs and a 19-9 win in one of the Singles. The final session saw Devon pull through following wins in one of the Triples and one of the Fours and drawing the remaining Fours match. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles and Pairs the final score was Somerset 18 (199 shots) Devon 22 (188 shots). The result sees Devon A consolidate second spot and are now 14 points above Somerset. Devon entertain Cornwall in the last group fixture on the 12^th January with both team’s hopeful of qualifying for the main knock out stages.

23/11/19 Somerset v Devon Preview

The Devon County teams travel to Somerset on the 1st of December with both teams hopeful of good results to boost their chances of qualifying for the knock out stages. Players have been asked to get to the venue for 9:30. Details of Somerset's new venue can be found here.  The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Benny Bass (Uffculme) , Luis Inacio (Bere Alston),   Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Graham James (Yarnscombe),  Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Ian Nicholls (Christow), Carol Osborne (Sidbury), Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Wonford), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads),  Margaret Smith (Wonford), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow), Ray Young (Exeter Nomads)  Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

A Team; Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Ava Cattell (Christow), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Bill Crilly (Colebrooke), Carol Dunmett (Bere Alston), Barrie Goodchild (Exeter Nomads), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Rob Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston), John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell. (Wonford), Brad Rundle (Christow), Diane Shepherd (Colebrook), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Oliver White (Lodiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell),  Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Rachel Wright (Sidbury)

17/11/19 DCSMBA Statement Regarding ICC Rinks

After hearing that the preliminaries of the ICC Rinks are to be held in Solihull the Devon County committee have taken the decision to withdraw both the A and the Premier team from the competition. The committee were disappointed that the ‘regional’ preliminaries were once again to be held in a central location.

14/11/19 National Over 55's & Under 18's Review

On Sunday ISCA played host to the National Over 55’s with the winner guaranteed a spot in the National Over 55 finals next year. After the round robin and several knock out stages the final was contested between last years winners Graham James and Lorraine Axtel and Hilary Iley and Robert Ivings from Exeter Nomads. After a tight start to the match Robert and Hilary eventually won through and secured their spot in the national final.

On the same day the County/National Under 18’s was held with Chloe Rundle, Sean Woodley, Ava Cattell (Christow) and Adam Perris (Wonford) with them all competing initially in a round robin. After the round robin the top two were Adam and Sean and these contested in a final. After an exciting game which could have gone either way Sean came through winning it on the final end.

04/11/19 Devon v Somerset Review