News

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

The Devon County teams returned to ISCA on Sunday where they welcomed Somerset in the latest ICC fixture. The Devon Premier team got off to a strong start securing the maximum 8 points in the first session by winning both the Singles and the Pairs. Somerset did respond in the second session but Devon were able to win one of the Fours and drew the remaining Fours 9-9, but Somerset won both of the Triples. This left the half time score at 11-5 to Devon. The third session was split evenly with Devon winning one of the Pairs and drawing the other Pairs and one of the Singles, whilst losing the other Singles match. Devon completed the job in the final session when they won both of the Triples and one of the Fours. With Devon winning the Bonus Points in the Singles, Pairs and the Triples and Fours the final score was Devon 27 (200 shots) Somerset 13 (163).

Devon A had an even first session with the team winning one of the Singles and one of the Pairs but losing on the other two mats. The second session was also split evenly with one of the Triples winning 20-7  and one of the Triples drawing, however they lost one of the Fours and drew the remaining Fours match. This left it all level at the half way stage 8-8. Devon took the initiative in the third session with wins in both of the Singles and one of the Pairs. It was a similar result in the last session of the day with Devon winning both of the Triples and one of the Fours 20-8. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles, Triples and Fours the final score was Devon 26 (214 shots) Somerset 14 (180 shots).

With two games to go Devon Premier lie 3^rd one point behind Cornwall and 15points behind Dorset. Devon A are currently 2^nd 13 points behind Dorset and 10 points ahead of Cornwall. Devon next travel to face Somerset next month.

31/10/19 Devon v Somerset Preview

The County Team play their Fourth ICC group game on Sunday where they play host to Somerset at ISCA. Both teams lie third in their respective group and will be looking for a good result to push up the table. The match starts at 10:00 and selected players are asked to be at the venue for 9:15, spectators are welcome to come and watch.  The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston),   Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Ian Nicholls (Christow), Carol Osborne (Sidbury), Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Wonford),  Margaret Smith (Wonford), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow), 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), Chloe Rundle (Christow), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Oliver White (Lodiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell),  Sean Woodley (Christow), Rachel Wright (Sidbury)

14/10/19 Devon v Dorset Review

Devon entertained Dorset yesterday in the latest ICC fixture. The Devon Premier team were looking to bounce back after two defeats on the road and started off well with both Singles winning and one of the Pairs drawing 10-10. Devon were able to extend their lead in the second session with Devon only losing one of the Fours but winning on every other mat. This left the half time score at 11-5 to Devon. Dorset responded in the second half and Devon were only able to win one of the Singles 16-10. The final session was tight on most of the mats however Devon came through and won both of the Fours and one of the Triples. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Singles, Triples and Fours the final score was Devon 25 (191 shots) Dorset 15 (171 shots)

Devon A were looking to continue their good form but were placed on the back foot in the first session when they gained only two points with only one of the Singles winning. However, Devon fought back in the second session winning both of the Fours and one of the Triples. This left the scores nicely poised at 8-8 at half time.  The third session was again dominated by Dorset with Devon only able to gain one win and that was an 18-10 win in the Pairs. Dorset were able to exert their dominance again in the final session where they won three of the four mats, Devon only able to win one of the Fours 21-3. With Devon only winning the bonus points in the Fours the final score was Devon 14 (180 shots) Dorset 26 (187 shots).

At the halfway stage in the groups both Devon A lie third in their respective group. The table standings can be found here. Devon next face Somerset at home on the 3^rd November.

17/10/19 Devon v Dorset Preview

The County Team play their third ICC group game on Sunday where they play host to Dorset at ISCA.  The match starts at 10:00 and selected players are asked to be at the venue for 9:15, spectators are welcome to come and watch.  The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Martin Conabeer (Exeter Nomads),   Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Ian Nicholls (Christow), Carol Osborne (Sidbury), Caroline Pavey (Sidbury), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Wonford),  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), Chloe Rundle (Christow), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Marie Toleman (Wonford), Pam Toleman (Wonford), Oliver White (Lodiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell),  Sean Woodley (Christow), Rachel Wright (Sidbury)

14/10/19 Cornwall v Devon Review

Carnmoggas was the venue or Devon latest ICC fixture where they faced Cornwall. The Premier team were looking to bounce back after their defeat against Dorset last month and started off well with a 4 points in the first session after wins in one of the Singles and one of the Pairs. Devon were however able to take the lead in the second session with wins in one of the Triples and one of the Fours with the remaining Fours securing a point following a 9-9 draw. This left the half time score a 9-7 to Devon. Cornwall fought back in the third session and Devon only managed one win with a 14-7 in the Singles. The final session of matches were split with both counties winning one Triples and one Fours each. With Devon only winning the |bonus points in the Fours the final score was Cornwall 23 (203 shots) Devon 17 (163 shots)

Devon A went into the match against Cornwall in a buoyant mood following their victory against Dorset and this showed in their first session with victories in both of the Singles and one of the Pairs. However, Cornwall stirred into lie in the second session with Devon only narrowly winning one Triples 11-10 and drawing one of the Fours 11-11. Despite this Devon led 9-7 at halftime.  Devon pushed ahead in the third session with wins in both of the Singles and drew one of the Pairs. With Devon firmly in control they sealed victory in the final session with wins in both of the Fours and one of the Triples. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles and Fours the final score was Cornwall 16 (178 shots) Devon 24 (208 shots)

It is a quick turn around with Devon facing Dorset at home on Sunday 20th October

10/10/19 Cornwall v Devon Preview

The County Team continue their ICC campaign with a trip to Cornwall.  The match starts at 10:00 and selected players are asked to be at the venue for 9:15. Details of the venue can be found here. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston),  Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (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), (Christow), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow), Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

A Team; Rob Bartlett (Upottery), Ava Cattell (Christow), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Carol Dunmett (Bere Alston), 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), Chris Thompson (Goodleigh), Marie Toleman (Wonford). Pam Toleman (Wonford), Oliver White. (Lodiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell), Roger Wilson (Anstey), Sean Woodley (Christow), Rachel Wright (Sidbury)

06/10/19 Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples

As mentioned previously there is a new competition to be held on the 15^th of December. The Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples which will be held at ISCA. Entry for this competition is £20. The closing date for entries is the 30^th November, however there is a special early bird deal which will see all entrants received by the 8^th November entered into a random draw where one team will win their entry fee back.  The entry form can be downloaded here.

30/09/19 England Under 21's v England Ladies

Yesterday saw the England Ladies take on the England Under 21's with the England Ladies looking for avenge last years defeat. Caroline Pavey (Sidbury) & Sue Young (Exeter Nomads) both participated for the England Ladies. Whilst Ava Cattrell, Chloe Rundle, Sean Woodley (Christow), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston) and Adam Perris (Wonford) represented the England Under 21's. It was a tight affair however the English Under 21's finally won 36-34.

26/09/19 Extracts From The County Committee Meeting 24th September 2019

The County/National under 18s competition will now take place in the afternoon of the 10th November, this has allowed the committee to organise a 3 woods triples tournament on the 15th of December. Dress will be very relaxed but we would hope to see lots of seasonal costumes! There could well be prizes for the best dressed team but beware ESMBA rules state no animals such as reindeers  are allowed on the mats. Ho Ho Ho! The cost is just £20.00 per team.The winning team will receive a Christmas hamper.
Entry forms will be on the website very soon.

The committee have decided to drop the Area Challenge (February 9th 2020) as it is felt that this event isn't fulfilling it's objectives but fear not we have decided to organise a Chairman's open competition. More details very soon.

Next meeting 12th November if you any items for the agenda please contact secretary Barrie

24/09/19 County/National Fours Review

This Sunday saw the County/National Fours take place. With 17 teams taking place teams were split in 5 groups with the group winners plus the three highest group runners up qualifying for the quarter finals. The first quarter final saw a hybrid team of Musbury, Uffculme and Exeter Nomads players skipped by James Trotted narrowly defeated 7-8  by a Wick team skipped by Martin Sexton. The second quarter final was between the Exeter Nomads team skipped by Robert Ivings and the Christow team skipped by Steve Collins. Chistow took an early lead and eventually won 9-5. The third quarter final was between was between Elliott James Yarnscombe Rink and Colebrooke’s Peter Budd rink. The Colebrook rink were able to take an early lead and led throughout eventually winning 9-3. The final quarter final was between Great Torrington’s Elaine Clements rink and Sidbury’s Eric Pavey Rink with Sidbury coming from behind to win 11-5.

The first semi final was between Wick and Sidbury and it took a late comeback from Wick to win with them finally winning 7-6 after an extra end. The other semi final between Colebrook and Christow was just as tight and came down to the last end. With the scores level at  7-7 Colebrook were able to pick up the one shot to secure victory. The final was not as tight, and Wick were able to pull away from Colebrook. Colebrook never recovered from this and Wick won the final 8-3. In the third and fourth place playoff which is needed to determine National places Sidbury beat Christow. Wick will now represent Devon in the National finals at the end of the season, whilst second, third and fourth place teams will wait to see if they get a spot.

24/09/19 Brian Medland Mixed Fours Review

Earlier this month ISCA played host to the Brian Medland Fours with nine teams competing for the top prize. The nine teams were split into groups of three with the group winners and the highest runner up progressing to the semi final. The first semi final was contested between a Wonford team skipped by John Parnell and the Colebrooke team led by Fred Oliver. Wonford took an early lead and led 4-0 after three ends, however Colebrooke came back and won 9-6 in the end. The other semi final was contested between an Upottery Rink skipped by Pam Bartlett and the Christow rink skipped by Geoff Cleave. This was a very tight match throughout with both sides leading at one stage but Christow eventually shone through 10-9. The final was contested between Colebrook and Christow and Christow were able to take an early lead and led 7-2 at the halfway stage. Christow were able to maintain this lead and eventually won 9-6.

16/09/19 Dorset v Devon Review

Devon travelled to Dorset on Sunday to start their ICC campaign in a match that they knew was going to be a tough match. For the Premier team it did  prove to be a tough encounter and in the first session they came away with just one win after 13-10 win in one of the Singles. The second round with the Triples and Fours followed a similar pattern with Devon only gaining two more points following a 16-12 win in one of the Triples. This left the half times score at 4-12 to Dorset. In the third session of the day Dorset pulled away further with Devon only recording 14-9 in one of the Singles. In the final session of the day Devon came away with another win with a 16-6 win in one of the Triples. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles and Triples the final score was Dorset 28 (211 shots) Devon 12 (153 shots)

The A team had a much better day than the Premier team and this was highlighted in the first session where they won both of the Singles confidently and drew one of the Pairs 14-14. The second session was a bit more even but with Devon only winning one of the Fours 11-4 and drawing one of the Triples Dorset came away with more points. This left the score at half time level at 8-8. Devon took the game by the scruff of the neck in the third session with maximum points from the Singles and one win in the Pairs. Devon completed the job in the final session with both triples winning and one of the Fours drawing.  With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles and gaining one in the Triples the final score was Dorset 18 (182 shots) Devon 22 (212 shots). Devon next face Cornwall away on the 13^th October.

16/09/19 Irish Open Review

Over the weekend the Short Mat Players Tour hosted the Irish Open in Belfast and there were three players from Devon involved. Barry McPhillips (Bere Alston) finished third in the group stage after three wins and two defeat. Barry therefore entered the plate knockout where he was knocked out 11-5 by Nigel Norris. Also entering the plate after 2 wins and a draw in his group was James Trott (Musbury), James progressed all the way through to the final of the plate where he won 10 -7 against Lee Lewis from Wales. The remaining Devon player involved was Elliott James who topped his group with five wins. He therefore went into the main knockout stages Elliott James was able to reach the Quarter Finals before he was knocked out by William Boggas 10-5. The Irish Open was won by Gary McNabb who beat William Boggas in the final.

13/09/19 Dorset v Devon Preview

The County Team start their campaign on Sunday with an away trip to Dorset with both team attempting to improve on last season which saw them both struggle. The match starts at 10:30 and selected players are asked to be at the venue for 9:45. Details of the venue can be found here. The following players have been selected for the game.

Premier Team; Michael Avery (Yarnscombe), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston),  Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), George Main (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) , Gary Collier (Exeter Nomads), Barrie Goodchild (Exeter Nomads), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads). Rob Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Colin Palmer (Sidbury), Pamela Palmer (Sidbury). John Parnell (Wonford), Shirley Parnell. (Wonford), Brad Rundle (Christow), Chloe Rundle (Christow), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Chris Thompson (Goodleigh), Marie Toleman (Wonford). Pam Toleman (Wonford), Oliver white. (Lodiswell), Richard White (Loddiswell), Rachel Wright (Sidbury)

12/09/19 Margaret Elliot Pairs Review

On Saturday saw the first County event of the season take place with the Margaret Elliot Pairs. This pairs competition is held for players who did not either represent Devon in the Inter County or win a County title in the previous season. As usual it was an early start with teams being drawn into groups of four for a round robin with the winners and runners up going into a main knock out draw whilst the third and fourth place teams in the groups go into a plate competition guaranteeing players at least 4 games.

After several knock out rounds in the Plate competition the final was between a Wick pairing skipped by Sharron Simmons and the Colebrook pairing skipped by Jenni Pitts. It was a tight affair with the Wick pairing coming through 8-7. In the main knockouts the final was between Yarnscombe’s Tony and George Main and Exeter Nomads Barrie Goodchild and Richard Williams. Yarnscombe had beaten the Winkleigh pairing skipped by John Horsham 11-3. Whilst the Exeter Nomads pair beat Geoff and Sue Cleave 9-6. In the final the Yarnscombe pair were able to maintain their form and won 13-8.

Margaret Elliot Pairs Winners Tony & George Main

28/08/19 DCSMBA Draw & Sign In Times

Details of County /National competition draw and sign in times is now on the competitions page. As mentioned earlier preliminary rounds are needed for the Singles, Pairs and Triples. Where necessary players have been drawn into morning and afternoon sessions and a draw will take place at the start of play to determine groups.

Due to the draw being done before start of play it is imperative that players turn up to events promptly at the designated time so that we can start promptly.

26/08/19 SMPT World Cup & UK Open Review

On Friday Devon’s James Trott represented England in the annual Short Mat Players Tour World Cup. In the round robin stage England comfortably beat Norway, United Arab Emirates and the Isle of Man. However despite James winning his Singles England suffered a defeat against Sweden leaving them to face Ireland in the semi finals. In the semi final James was able to win his match but defeats on all the other mats ensured Ireland won and booked their place in the finals. In the final Ireland continued their form and cruised to victory against Sweden claiming their 4^th successive triumph in the SMPT World Cup.

On Saturday James was joined by Devon’s Richard Williams and played in the SMPT’s UK Open. Richard finished fifth in the group stage and so entered the Plate Knockout. Richard made it to the second round where he was beaten 14-5 by Nigel Froud. James Trott won his round robin group winning 4 out of his 5 group games. In the main knockout stage, he was able to reach the Quarter Finals before he was knocked out 13-11 by Cornwall’s Nigel Nicholls. The UK Open was eventually won by Mark Beattie who beat Jonas Hager 13-6 in the final.

21/08/19 County Registration Reminder

 Just a reminder that membership registration expires on 31st August so can Club Secretaries please return any outstanding registration forms together with fees for members they wish to register by this date. This is very important for anyone playing in League Competitions, County Competitions (which start on 8th September) and members playing for either County Team. Secretaries can still register individual members during the season. The County Secretary’s details can be found on the Committee page

The treasurer would also like to ask people to ensure that any cheques paid to the association are done correctly. Recently there has been several errors on cheques which has led to the bank refusing them which has led to delays in the process.

07/08/19 Mark Allen Sadly Passes Away

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Mark Allen who sadly passed away on Saturday 3rd August, the funeral will be held at Mullion Church in Cornwall on 15th August at 10.30am, bowling attire is welcomed from anyone wishing to attend.

28/07/19 2019/20 County/National Draw Details

The Devon Competition draw will take place at ISCA after the County squad day on the 11^th August at 4:30pm. Preliminary rounds are needed in the Singles, Pairs and Triples due to the amount of entries. Players will be randomly drawn into the morning and afternoon session.  A draw will then take place at the start of play to determine groups. There is no need for a preliminary round in the Fours. On the 11th September there will also be a draw for the County team championship.

Due to the draw being done before start of play it is imperative that players turn up to events promptly at the designated time (9am for morning sessions and 1:15pm for afternoon sessions) so that we can start promptly.

22/07/19 DCSMBA Open Pairs Report

On Saturday Devon held the Open Pairs at ISCA which saw 27 teams split in to seven groups with the top two teams in each group progressing through to the main knockout stages. Teams that did not make it into the main knock out stages were entered into a plate competition. After several knockout stages he semi final stage was reached. The first semi final was contested between Benny Bass and Maddie Edmondson who faced Richard Williams and Barry Goodchild with Benny and Maddie winning 15-1. The second semi final was between Marie Toleman and Ava Catell who faced Graham James and Lorraine Axtell with Lorraine and Graham coming through 8-11. The final was nip and tuck but eventually Lorraine and Graham won 8-11 against Benny and Maddie to become worthy winners.

19/06/19 Ladies Pairs Cancelled

The new Ladies Pairs which was due to be held on the 13th July at ISCA has now been cancelled due to a lack of  entrants. The competition will be discussed at the next meeting and maybe held at a different time in the season.

03/06/19 County Trials & Squad Day

The county is always on the lookout for new players to play for Devon in the Inter County Championship. Initially round robin games take place against Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset and then there may be longer journeys to face other county sides later in the season. If you feel you would like to have a chance to be considered to play, then players can download and fill in a trials form which can be found here.

This season they will be a trials day at ISCA on Sunday July 21st. If interested please be ensure trial forms are received by the county managers by the 1st July. After the deadline county managers have received player’s trials forms they will be in touch with each trialist to confirm their attendance and start times. It is envisaged that it will be a full day. Please do not just turn up on the day without sending a trial form in and informing the county managers.

Throughout the day trialists will be assessed on their ability and by the end of the day each player will be informed whether the county managers would like them to attend the County Squad day. The County Squad day is to be held several weeks later on Sunday 11th August and will also be held at ISCA. If players do have any questions, then please do not hesitate to contact either Richard Ivings (Premier Team Manager) or Robert Ivings (A Team Manager). Their details can be found on the committee page

29/05/19 County Team Championship Changes

For the 2019/20 season the County Team Championship will be altered. From next season only 5 players per club will be required with players playing in two disciplines. Games will still be played on a home and away basis until the final stage which will be held at ISCA. In a change to previous seasons clubs can now enter a maximum of two teams instead of one. The entry forms for clubs with more details can be found here.

14/05/19 Extracts From County Meeting April 30th 2019

On the 30^th April, the new committee met and the following was discussed

• The committee feels we should be offering various competitions during the summer months.With this in mind we decided to trial two events. A Ladies Day and a Open competition. Details of both will be circulated to clubs and posted on the website.
• If the above competitions are successful, we should then be able to offer a fuller programme next year.
• As with many other sports the committee is concerned that many bowling clubs are experiencing falling membership, it was felt that the county had to do it's bit. We will be hosting a sausage & chips evening during the autumn to encourage families to take part. More details soon.

Other items discussed

• Changes to Tens Competition will be announced very soon.

• We will be introducing a dedicated information link on the website, upcomingevents, suggestions etc.

    In the mean time if you have any comments/ideas please contact any             committee member: Next Committee meeting 23rd July 2019

13/05/19 New Summer Competition Announced

Devon County are pleased to announce that alongside the Open Ladies Pairs (13th July), there will be another tournament held in the Summer months. On the 20^th July there will be an Open 2 wood Pairs Tournament which is open to any ESMBA member. The entry fee is £15 and will be held at ISCA. Entry forms will be circulated to clubs and can be downloaded here.

10/05/19 County/National Competition Announcement

The County and National competitions entry forms have now been released and have been sent to club secretaries. They can also be found on the competitions page on the website. Entry fees for this year have been frozen with the exception of Under 18’s who can enter both the County/National Singles and the County/National Under 18’s for free.

In addition to the County/National events the County association is also running a Ladies Pairs in July. This will be held at ISCA and is priced at £15 a pair. Please be aware that the closing date for this competition is 30^th June

15/04/19 National Championship Review

Over the last few days the National Championships have concluded at Melton Mowbray. On Thursday the National Singles was held and all 4 Devon bowlers progressed into the knockouts. In the first knock out stage Eric Pavey (Sidbury)lost out 7-6 to David Newsome (North Yorkshire), whilst Graham James (Yarnscombe) lost to Peter Hore (Cornwall) 7-8. Elliott James (Yarnscombe) Progressed a round further but lost to Kent’s Nicky Tresaden 11-10. Benny Bass (Uffculme) however continued on his way and progressed to the final where he beat Peter Hore 14-1.

National Singles Winner 2019

On Friday the National Pairs was held and Devon had three teams reach the knockout stages. Shirley & John Parnell (Wonford) were beaten in the first knock out round 11-5 by Dorset. Also going out in round one was Richard Williams & Benny Bass (Wonford/Uffculme) where they were beaten 9-7 by Gloucestershire. However, the strongest performance in the Pairs was Michael Ivings and James Trott (Musbury) who made it to the quarter finals before being beaten 8-6 by North Yorkshire.

On Saturday in the Fours two teams made it into the knockout rounds. The Bow quartet of Rita & John Redstone, Dan Escott and Nick Wyatt got to the first knockout stage where they were beaten 9-3 by Northamptonshire. Going one stage further was the Christow/Exeter Nomads hybrid team of Hillary Illy, Richard & Robert Ivings and Ian Nicholls who were beaten 9-4 by Derbyshire.

On Sunday in the National Triples took place with 2 teams reaching the knockout stages . The sidbury trio of Kim Wright, Carol Osborne and Eric Pavey lost out 8-9 to Avon. Reaching the last 16 was Ann & Dave Summers and Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries) who lost out 12-3 against Herefordshire.

07/04/19 County Team Championship Review

Yesterday saw 6 teams from around Devon transcend onto ISCA to take part in the County Team Championship. Qualifying for the final was Christow (who beat Sidbury and Bow) and Totnes Creameries (who beat Wick and Exeter Nomads). The final was a tight affair with the Christow winning the Singles and drawing the Triples whilst Totnes Creameries won the Singles and Fours. However Christow won the bonus points for having the most shots and secured the title thanks to their superior shot difference.

Christow County Team Chamionship Winners

After the County Team Championship the Devon County AGM took place and the new County Committee can be found here. As you will see the South and West Area Rep position is vacant, if anyone is interested in discussing this position please contact a committee member.

01/04/19 DCSMBA AGM Nominations

On Saturday the Devon County AGM takes place at approximately 4:30 pm at ISCA once the County Tens has been played. The deadline for nominations for committee posts has now passed. The following nominations have been received:

Chairman – Trevor Tregillus

Vice Chairman – Eric Pavey

Secretary – Barrie Goodchild

Competition Secretary – Caroline Pavey

North Area Rep -Hilary Iley

East Area Rep – Brab Hallowes

South Area Rep – No Nominations Received

Committee Member (2 vacant positions as per Constitution)
Bill Crilly, Fred Oliver, Alan Gibb

Both the A Team and Premier Team Manager Positions are not up for election this season and have 1 and 2 seasons to run respectively.

01/04/19 National Mixed Fours & National Over 55's Pairs Report

This weekend saw the National Mixed Fours and Nationals Over 55 Pairs being held at Daventry IBC. In the National Mixed Fours on Saturday Devon had three teams involved. The Winkleigh Team of John and Rita Redstone, Graham James and Lorraine Axtell made it to the first knockout stage before they were roundly beaten by Hampshire. The same Hampshire team faced Ann & Dave Summers and  Mike & Rose Morrison in the Semi Finals where again they were victorious winning 7-9. In the final they faced Pam & Marie Toleman, Richard Williams & Benny Bass where Hampshire secured a hat trick of victories against Devon and secured the title.

On Sunday the National Over 55’s took place. Three Devon Teams progressed and made it to the knock out stages. Colin and Pam Palmer were beaten in the first knock out round where they were roundly beaten by Hampshire. At the same stage Rose and Mike Morrison were also knocked out after they were beaten 8-6. Graham James and Lorraine Axtell progressed one stage further before they were knocked out 8-6 by Norfolk. Hampshire were able to make it a perfect weekend when they beat Worcestershire in the final.

25/03/19 Devon Players Help England To Welsh Victory

As previously mentioned on Sunday several Devon players were selected for England under 21s match against Wales. England under 21s won the first session quite convincingly but the second session was a totally different ballgame and Wales came out and won quite a few games. England in the end won quite convincingly after a strong third session. It was a great performance by England who won 59-21 with all Devon players contributing to an outstanding win which saw England retain the Bill Jenkins Trophy

 

The Devon Players With The Bill Jenkins Trophy

22/03/19 Devon Under 21 Players To Face Wales

This Sunday the England Under 21’s face Wales in the annual international match. The game takes place at Tamworth. The following Devon players have been selected for the match Ava Cattell & Chloe Rundle (Christow), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston) and Adam Perris (Wonford).

20/03/19 National Under 18's Report

This Saturday saw the ESMBA host the final of the National 18’s and Devon had two qualifiers in Benny Bass (Uffculme) and Ava Cattell (Christow). With only 16 finalists in total, the players were split into groups of four for a round robin with the top two entering the final knockout stages. Sadly Ava came bottom of her group however her results improved as the day went on.

Benny secured his passage into the knockout stages with two wins and a draw. He progressed through the quarter final and semi final before meeting Norfolk’s Ryan Fox in the Final. Despite being tight for much of the match Ryan pulled away and after 8 ends was 10-5 up. Benny was able to pull up so he was only one shot behind going into the final end, however Ryan was able to hold on and win the title.

14/03/19 Area Challenge

On Sunday  players from all around the county transcended on to ISCA who hosted the Area Challenge. The event sees each of the Area Representatives pick 1 Singles, 1 Pairs, 1 Triples and 1 Fours from their area, these players are all non-county players. These teams then play all the other areas as well as the Devon County A team. At the end of the day the East area finished 3rd with the North pipping the West area to the title.

13/03/19 Devon AGM Details