News

On Sunday the Devon County Premier team travel to Solihull where they face Hampshire in the Quarter Finals of the Inter County Championship. The winners will face Norfolk or Cheshire who play their quarter final on the same day. The match starts at 10am and selected players have been asked to be at the venue by 9:30am. Details of the venue can be found here. The following players have been selected for the match:

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe),  Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads),  Gareth Hill (Totnes Creameries), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe) Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries),  Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), James Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Slapton), James Trott (Exeter Nomads), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

05/02/24 Devon v Hertfordshire Review

On Sunday Devon Premier travelled to Bristol where they faced Hertfordshire in the Preliminary round off the ICC. Devon started off very strongly with wins on three of the four mats in the first session. The sole defeat coming in one of the pairs. The second session was also another strong session with three victories. The single defeat coming in one of the Triples. This left the half time score 12-4 to Devon. Devon strengthened their grip and won the match in the third session with wins on all matches and also secured the bonus points in the Singles and Pairs. The final was again dominated by Devon who brought home a further three victories. With Devon securing the bonus points in all four disciplines the final score was Devon 34 (235 shots) Hertfordshire 6 (131 shots).

The Devon Premier team now face Hampshire in the Quarter Finals at Solihull on the 18^th February.

05/02/24 Brian Medland Mixed Fours Review

On Saturday the Manor House Hotel hosted the Brian Medland Mixed Fours. After an enjoyable day bowling the final was contested between the rink from Exeter Nomads comprising of Hilary Iley, Rob Bartlett, Gill Smith and James Trott and the rink from Great Torrington comprising of Paul Weeks, Teresa Walter, Elaine Clements and Colin Sowden. The Exeter Nomads rink was victorious winning 12-5.

There was also a plate competition for teams that didn’t quite make the main knockout stage and this was won by the Christow rink of Tom Archer, Claire Lloyd, Ava Cattell and Steve Collins.

02/02/24 Devon v Hertfordshire Team Announced

On Sunday the Devon County Premier team travel to Bristol where they face Hertfordshire in the first knockout round of the Inter County Championship. The winners of this match then face Hampshire in several weeks time. The match starts at 10am and selected players have been asked to be at the venue by 9:15am. Details of the venue can be found here. The following players have been selected for the match:

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe),  Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads),  Gareth Hill (Totnes Creameries), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe),  Graham James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe) Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries),  Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), James Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Slapton), James Trott (Exeter Nomads), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

31/01/24 New County Secretary Still Required & Registrations

Earlier this month it was announced that our DCSMBA Secretary Alan Woodacre was standing down with immediate effect. Since then, we have been trying to find a replacement for this position. So far we have been unsuccessful in getting one. We are still trying to fill this space and would like to ask our members again if anyone is willing to fill this post. The committee would again like to thank Alan for his continued support in this process. The committee would like to emphasise the importance of this post but also that the committee would be very supportive of anyone who would be willing to take up this role.

As a result of this, committee member Dave Woods will now be responsible for the county registrations. Any queries or requests for new registrations are to be directed directly to David. His details can be found on the committee page, and he has a new email address for registrations which is dcsmba.reg@outlook.com

If anyone has any questions regarding the County Secretary post, then please do not hesitate to contact any County Committee member and they will be happy to answer any questions

22/01/24 National Allocations

The ESMBA have provided us with the allocations for this years National Competitions. Devon has four spots in every competition with the exception of the Under 18's where we have two spots. The qualifiers for each discipline can be found here.

22/01/24 County National Pairs Review

On Saturday, the final Devon County/National competition of the season took place with the County/National Pairs Finals. 24 teams made it through to finals day and these were drawn in 6 groups of four for the round robin stage. The top two in each group progressed to the knockout stage which was completed after lunch. After several knockout rounds the final  was contested between Paul Pomeroy &  James Smith and Mikey Ivings & James Trott with Mikey and James producing a polished performance and retaining the title they won last year.  Also going to the Nationals alongside the two finalist teams are Adam & Thomas Perris and Rose Morrison & John Steer

15/01/24 County National Singles & Triples Review

On Saturday 28 players travelled from across Devon to Okehampton to play in the final stage of the County/National Singles. In the morning there was an initial round robin stage with players randomly drawn into 8 groups. The top two players in each group progressed into the knockout stage which took place after lunch. Players were quickly whittled down until we were left with two players. These were Steve Collins (Christow) who faced last years champion John Steer (Slapton). It was a tight match and after 7 ends there was only one shot in it. However John slowly pulled away and eventually won 9-4

In addition to Steve and John also qualifying for the National Singles was Graham Shepherd and Dave Summers.

On Sunday we returned to the Manor House Hotel where we held the final stages of the County/National Triples with 24 teams reaching this stage. Teams were split 6 groups with the top two teams in each group going through to the knockout stages.  Teams were knocked out until we were down to the final. The final was between Richard Williams, Gill Cawrse  & Nick Wyatt and Mikey Ivings, Thomas Perris and James Smith, with Mikey, Thomas and James producing a confident performance which saw them with the title.

As well as the two finalist teams also qualifying for the nationals is Dave Brown, Graham & Diane Shepherd and Sandra Weston, Paul Pomeroy & Barry McPhillips.

12/01/24 County National Triples Venue & Start Time

We have now had it confirmed that this weekends bowling events which is the County National Singles & Triples finals will take place in the Moorland Hall at the Manor House Hotel. The sign in for each day is 9am

09/01/24 New County Secretary Required

As you may be aware our Devon County Secretary Alan Woodacre had planned to stand down at the next AGM. However due to personal reason Alan is standing down from his duties as secretary now. The Committee would like to thank Alan for his hard work and dedication during his tenure as secretary.

The DCSMBA Committee are therefore looking for a replacement to start as soon as possible. If any DCSMBA member is interested in taking up this role then please contact any committee member to discuss it further. Committee members details can be found here.

08/01/24 Devon v Cornwall Review

Devon hosted Cornwall in the final game of the group stage on Sunday. The Devon Premier team went in to the game knowing that 16 points was required to ensure qualification into the knockout stage. The team did start in positive fashion and in the first session won on all 4 mats. It was a similar story in the second session of the days with both Fours winning however only one of the Triples won their game. This left the half time score at 14-2 to Devon. Cornwall roared into life in the third session and Devon only managed to win one of the Pairs. However, Devon did pick the bonus points in the pairs. The final session was dominated by Devon with 3 strong wins and the only dropped points was down to a 7-7 draw in one of the Fours. With Devon getting the bonus points in the Pairs, Triples and Fours the final score was Devon 29 (207 shots) Cornwall 11 (167 shots).

The A team were already assured of their place in the knockout stage, and they were just ensuring they gained the 3 points required to top the group. This was achieved in the first session where they won on all 4 mats. The second session Devon A won on three mats only dropping 2 points thanks to a loss in one of the Triples. This left the half time score at 14-2 to Devon. The third session was controlled by Cornwall and Devon only came away with two points thanks to a win in one of the pairs. The final session was edged by Devon with a win and a draw in the Triples, whilst there was a win and a loss in the Fours.  With Devon winning the bonus points in the Pairs, Triples and Fours the final score was Devon 27 (196 shots) Cornwall 13 (185 shots).

After topping the table Devon A qualify for the ICC semi finals and wait to find out who they will face. The Premier team will face Hertfordshire who came second in group 3 in the Preliminary round. The venue of this will be announced by the ESMBA in due course.

05/01/24 Devon v Cornwall Team Announced

On Sunday Devon play their final ICC group game when they face Cornwall at the Manor House Hotel. Devon Premier go Into the game in second spot and that 16 points will be enough to qualify for the knockouts. The A team are assured of qualification and now just need 3 points to be sure of top spot which will take them straight to the semifinals. The Match starts at 10am with Devon players being asked to be there for 9:15am. Please note this match is taking place in the Bowls Hall and not the Moorland Hall. The following players have been selected for the match:

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe),  Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads),  Gareth Hill (Totnes Creameries), Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Graham James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe) Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Barry McPhillips (Sidbury),  Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Thomas Perris (Exeter Nomads), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Diane Shepherd (Winkleigh), John Steer (Slapton), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury),

A Team: Lorraine Axtell (Winkleigh), Rob Bartlett (Exeter Nomads), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Budgie Hallows (Ottery St Mary), Jayne Hayter (Totnes Creameries), Wayne Hendy (Great Torrington), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Ian Nicholls (Christow), John Parnell (Abbotskerswell), Shirley Parnell (Abbotskerswell), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads), John Redstone (Winkleigh), Graham Shepherd (Winkleigh), Colin Sowden (Great Torrington), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Sandra Weston (Sidbury), Roger Wilson (Winkleigh), Ray Young (Exeter Nomads), Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

19/12/23 Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples Review

On Sunday the Manor house Hotel hosted the traditional end of year event, the Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples. This is a more relaxed and fun event and it was so good to see so many players get into the festive mood with their Christmas jumpers and outfits. With 23 teams entering he competitions the teams were split into two groups and each team played four games. The winners of each group played the final whilst the runners up in each group played the final.

The 3^rd and fourth place playoff was contested between Mike & Rose Morrison and Dave Woods and Stewart Weighill, Ann and Dave Summers with Mike, Rose and Dave Winning 6-4. The final was contested between Carol Osbourne, Pam & Colin Palmer and Kim & Rachel Wright and Eric Pavey with Carol, Pam and Colin winning 6-3.

Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples Winners Carol Osbourne, Colin & Pam Palmer

11/12/23 Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples Draw

On Sunday the Manor House Hotel hosts the Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples and. This is now our traditional end of year competition. Don't forget to bring your Christmas jumpers and outfits!

As usual we will be holding a raffle and we would like to invite players and attendees to bring a raffle prize so that we can end the year with a bang.

11/12/23 Devon v Cornwall Report

On Sunday Devon travelled down to Carnmoggas where they faced Cornwall in the latest ICC fixture. Both sides travelled knowing that a good result will put them in a strong position going into the final fixture in January. The Premier team started off very strongly and in the first session they won 3 out of the four mats and only lost in one of the Singles. The second session was also dominated by Devon with 3 of the four mats winning with only one of the Triples losing. This left the half time score at 12-4. However, Cornwall came roaring back in the second half with Devon faltering. The third session was dominated by Cornwall with Devon only winning on one mat. This was thanks to one of the Pairs that won 28-9 which also secured the Pairs bonus points. Devon continued to struggle in the final and suffered a whitewash with defeats on all four mats. With Devon gaining the bonus points in the Pairs the final score was Cornwall 24 (202 shots) Devon 16 (188 shots)

The Devon A team also started off strongly as well with three victories in the first session. The one defeat suffered in this session was a 14-11 defeat in one of the Pairs. In the second session Cornwall came out on top with Devon only gaining a 21-8 win in one Triples and a 8-8 draw in one of the Fours. This meant the half time score was 9-7 to Devon. The third session was evenly split with both counties winning one of the Singles and one of the Pairs. The final session was completely dominated by the Devon team with Devon winning on all four mats. With Devon gaining the bonus points in all four disciplines the final score was Devon 29 (238 shots) Cornwall 11 (154 shots).

The Devon Premier team now lie second in the table 10 points ahead of Cornwall and all focus will now be on securing second place and a spot in the knockout rounds. The Devon A team have secured their place in the knockout rounds and only need 3 points to secure top spot. The current group standings can be found here. The last game of the season is against Cornwall on the 7^th January.

11/12/23 County/National Mixed Fours Report

On Saturday Devon hosted the County/National mixed fours which was held at the Manor House hotel. With 15 teams consisting for the title it was a straight forward format with teams drawn into four groups with the top town each group qualifying for the knockout stages

The knockout stage took place after lunch and after several knockout round we reach the final. The final was contested between the Christow rink of Tom Archer, Claire Lloyd, Ava Cattell & Steve Collins and Diane Shepherd. Gill Cawrse, George Main and Elliott James. These two teams had played each other In the first game of the day when they had battled out a draw, but this match was different. Elliott’s rink quickly took control and never let go of their grip with the match finally finishing 8-1.

County/National Mixed Fours Winners Elliott James, Diane Shepherd,
Gill Cawrse & George Main

The winners are guaranteed a spot in the finals in March whilst the finalist and semi finalists face an anxious wait for the national allocations to be released

07/12/23 Devon v Cornwall preview

On Sunday Devon travel to Carnmoggas where they face Cornwall in the latest ICC fixture. The Devon Premier team go into the game top of the table, 12 points above Dorset and 18 points above Cornwall. A strong win against Cornwall will go a long way in ensuring qualification for the knockout rounds. The A team sit second in the group 6 points behind Dorset (who have no more games to play). The A team will be looking to win the group to avoid the initial knockout rounds and qualify for the semifinals and so will be looking to maintain and stretch the 17 point lead they hold over Cornwall.

Details of the Cornwall venue can be found here and players are requested to be at the venue in time for the 9:30am team meeting with the match starting at 10am. The following players have been selected for the match:

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe),  Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads),  Gareth Hill (Totnes Creameries), Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe) Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury)), John Steer (Slapton), James Trott (Exeter Nomads), paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

A Team: Rob Bartlett (Exeter Nomads), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Budgie Hallows (Ottery St Mary), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Barry McPhillips (Sidbury), Ian Nicholls (Christow), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads), John Redstone (Winkleigh), Diane Shepherd (Winkleigh), Graham Shepherd (Winkleigh), Colin Sowden (Great Torrington), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Sandra Weston (Sidbury), Stuart Weighill (Totnes Creameries), Roger Wilson (Winkleigh), Alan Woodacre (Goodleigh), Lee Woodacre (Goodleigh), Ray Young (Exeter Nomads), Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

04/12/23 County/National Mixed Fours Hall Change

Please be aware that the County/National Mixed Fours which is being held this Saturday 9^th December is being held in the bowling hall at the bowling hall and not the Moorland Hall. It is the same hall that was used for the Devon v Dorset ICC match as we’ll as the County/National Triples qualifying day back in October. A map with the location of the bowls hall can be found here.

30/11/23 County/National Pairs Preliminary Round Details

On Saturday Devon County are holding the County/National Pairs Preliminary rounds in the Moorland Hall at the Manor House Hotel. With 49 pairs taking part in the competition teams have been randomly drawn into either a morning session or an afternoon session. This draw can be found here.

The sign in time for players in the morning session is 9am, whilst the sign in time for players in the afternoon session is 1:30pm.  Players that qualify will return to the Manor House Hotel on the 20^th January for the finals day.

13/11/23 Devon v Dorset Review

On Sunday both Devon Premier and Devon A travelled to Dorset in the latest ICC fixture. The Devon Premier team came into the match unbeaten and were looking to extend this streak and stay on top of the league. The first session was a tight affair with Devon winning one of the Pairs and one of the Singles winning but Devon lost on the other two mats. The second session was another tight affair with Devon winning one of the Triples and one of the Fours and again losing on the other two mats. This left the half time score at 8-8.

In the third session Devon were able to finally edge ahead on the match where despite losing in one of the Pairs they drew one the Singles and won on the other two mats. The final session was again split evenly with both of the Triples being won by Devon and both of the fours being won by Dorset. With Devon Getting the bonus points in the Singles and Triples the final score was Dorset 19 (187 shots Devon 21 (191 shots). This was the first time since 2016 that Devon have beaten Dorset at their home venue and ensured that Devon remained on top of the group going into the final two games.

The A team have only played one game so far this season and so were playing catch up to both Cornwall and Dorset who have both played more. Devon came out very strongly in the first half and won on all four mats. This form was taken into the second session where Devon was only defeated on one mat, but wins on the other two mats Devon were in a very strong position at half time with the score at 14-2.

The third session of the day was split evenly with Devon winning one of the Singles and one of the Pairs. In the final session Devon were able to win both of the Triples and one the Fours. With Devon winning the bonus points in all four disciplines the final score was Dorset 8 Devon 32. Devon are now second in the group 7 point behind Dorset. However, Dorset have no games left to play whilst Devon face a double header against Cornwall In December and January. The full league standings of both teams can be found here.

13/11/23 Over 55 County/National Pairs & Under 18's Review

On Saturday the Manor House hotel hosted the latest Devon County Competition day with both the National Over 55 Pairs and the County Under 18’s taking place. In the Over 55 Pairs there were 29 entries and so teams were split into groups of fours or three in the morning. The top two teams in each group then progressed to the knockout stages which took place after lunch. The 16 teams were whittled down to 2 teams and the final was contested between Stewart Weighill & John Bradbury (Bere Alston) and Brian James and Neil Buckland. Stewart and John produced a strong performance and were able to overcome their opponents and became the Over 55 Pairs Champions in Devon

John Bradbury & Stewart Weighill Devon County/National Over 55's Pairs Winners

There was three Devon under 18’s this year and they played a round robin with each of them playing each other. After all the matches were played Uffculme’s Tom Dodge topped the group and therefore became Devon new Under 18 Champion.

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10/11/23 Devon v Dorset Team Announced

On Sunday both Devon Premier and Devon A travel to Bere Regis on Sunday where they take on Dorset. Devon Premier will be looking to carry on the good form that has seen them top the group at the half way stage. Whilst Devon A who have only played one game so far this year will be looking to make up ground on both Cornwall and Dorset.

Details of the Dorset venue can be found here and players are requested to be at the venue in time for the 10am team meeting. The following players have been selected for the match

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe),  Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads),  Gareth Hill (Totnes Creameries), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe) Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), James Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Slapton), James Trott (Exeter Nomads), Stewart Weighill (Totnes Creameries), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

A Team: Rob Bartlett (Exeter Nomads), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Budgie Hallows (Ottery St Mary), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads),  Barry McPhillips (Sidbury), Ian Nicholls (Christow), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads), John Redstone (Winkleigh), Diane Shepherd (Winkleigh), Graham Shepherd (Winkleigh), Colin Sowden (Great Torrington), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Sandra Weston (Sidbury), Roger Wilson (Winkleigh), Alan Woodacre (Goodleigh), Lee Woodacre (Goodleigh), Ray Young (Exeter Nomads), Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

06/11/23 Devon v Somerset Review

Devon premier welcomed Somerset to The Manor House Hotel on Sunday in the latest ICC fixture. Devon were looking to continue their unbeaten start to the season and in the first session Devon continued this form with wins on all four mats. This momentum was carried into the second session with again Devon securing wins on all four mats. This left the half time score at 16-0 to Devon.

In the third session Devon secured two more wins which included a 29-2 win in one of the Singles. Whilst on the other two matches both secure draws. In the third session Devon were defeated in both of the Triples matches but won in both of the Fours. With Devon winning all the bonus points the final score was Devon 34 (256 shots) Somerset 6 (137 shots). In the other group fixture Dorset travelled to Cornwall where they secured a 24-16 win.

The A team did not have a competitive match this weekend but Dorset A beat Cornwall A 22-18. The group standings for both the Premier and the A team can be found here. Devon Premier and A both travel to Dorset for their next fixture on Sunday. The teams for this game will be announced later this week.

01/11/23 Devon v Somerset Team Announced

The Devon County Premier team return to action on Sunday when they entertain Somerset in the Moorland Hall at the Manor House Hotel in Okehampton. Devon come into the game sitting level on points with Dorset at the top of the league table. At the same time as Devon play Somerset, Cornwall host Dorset in the other league fixture. The Devon A team do not have a fixture this Sunday however they are having an internal practice day. selected Premier team players are asked to be at the team meeting for 9:30am and the match starts at 10am Spectators are welcome to come and support the team. The following players have been selected for the match.

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe),  Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads),  Gareth Hill (Totnes Creameries), Richard Ivings(Exeter Nomads), Graham James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe) Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), James Smith (Exeter Nomads), John Steer (Slapton), James Trott (Exeter Nomads), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington),Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

27/10/23 County/National Singles Draw

Next Saturday the Manor House Hotel host the County/National Singles preliminaries. We return to the Moorland Hall has it now been fully refurbished. Players have been split into two sessions with a morning session with a sign in at 9am and an afternoon session with a sign in at 1.15pm. The draw can be found here. Players are reminded that players are expected to mark games during these sessions and will be allocated accordingly. Also please note that only flat branded shoes are permitted and shorts are not permitted to be worn. 

16/10/23 Devon v Dorset Review

The A team started their campaign this weekend against Dorset A and in the first session they won both of the Singles and drew one of the Pairs. In the second session Devon gain 5 points with one win in one of the Triples and one of the the Fours and the other Triples drew 10-10.  This left the half time score at Devon 10 Dorset 6. The third session of the day was split evenly with Devon winning one of the Singles and one of the Pairs. Devon maintained their advantage in the final session of the day with one win in both of the Triples and Fours. The other Fours in that session also drew 8-8. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles, Triples and Fours the Final score was Devon 25 (198 shots) Dorset 15 (172 shots).

In the other days fixture in the Premier team, Somerset hosted Cornwall and Cornwall came away with a 23-17 win. The current standings of both teams can be found here.  Devon Premier next host Somerset on the 5^th November at the Manor House Hotel. On the same day Devon A will also be holding a practice day.

13/10/23 Devon v Dorset Team Announced

Dorset are the visitors on Sunday as the Manor host its first ever ICC fixture. Dorset the premier team champions of last season come to Devon following beating Cornwall 28-12 and Both Devon and Dorset are level on points going into this game. The A team start their season whilst Dorset have already played Cornwall where they suffered a narrow 22-18 loss.

Selected Devon players are asked to be at the venue for the team meeting at 10am. Spectators are welcome but please be aware we are in the alternative bowls hall as the Moorland Hall is in the middle of being refurbished. The following players have been selected for the match;

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe),  Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads),  Gareth Hill (Totnes Creameries), Mikey ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Colin Sowden (Great Torrington), John Steer (Slapton), James Trott (Exeter Nomads), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

A Team: Rob Bartlett (Exeter Nomads), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Budgie Hallows (Ottery St Mary), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Barry McPhillips (Sidbury), Ian Nicholls (Christow), John Parnell (Abbotskerswell), Shirley Parnell (Abbotskerswell), John Redstone (Winkleigh), Diane Shepherd (Winkleigh), Graham Shepherd (Winkleigh), Ann Summers (Totnes Creameries), Dave Summers (Totnes Creameries), Stewart Weighill (Totnes Creameries), Sandra Weston (Sidbury), Roger Wilson (Winkleigh), Alan Woodacre (Goodleigh), Lee Woodacre (Goodleigh), Ray Young (Exeter Nomads), Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

11/10/23 County/National Triples Prelim Details

Due to the amount of entrants in the County/National Triples this season it has been necessary to hold a preliminary day which will be held on the 14th October. The qualifiers will then return later to the Manor House Hotel later in the season to contest the final, the date of which will be confirmed shortly. There are two sessions of preliminaries on Saturday and players have been randomly drawn into either a morning session (9am sign in) or an afternoon session (1pm sign in). The list of players can be found by clicking this link.

Please pass this message on to any of your fellow club members who are playing and who may not have seen this information.

09/10/23 Devon Ladies Represent England In British Isles

This weekend saw the England Ladies play in the inaugural Ladies British Isle which was held in Melton Mowbray. Devon had two ladies representing England with Sue Young (Exeter Nomads) and Bridget Hallowes (Ottery St Mary) having been selected. Ireland dominated the event winning the Team championship with England coming second. In the individuals Ireland won the Singles and Pairs, Scotland won the Triples whilst England won the Fours.

06/10/23 DCSMBA Statement regarding 14th/15th October

We have been informed that the Manor House Hotel are redoing the floor in the Moorland Bowls Hall. Players that attended the County Fours last week helped the committee to move all of our equipment out of the hall and into the viewing area. The hall is out of use for the weekend of the 14^th and 15^th October. So for the County/National Triples and the Devon v Dorset Inter County match we will playing in the other bowls hall at the manor House hotel which is located on the other side of the dining hall. A map with the location of this bowls hall can be found here.

The Moorland Hall will no longer be a bowls hall but will instead be used for pickleball/short tennis. The committee have held meetings with the Manor House Hotel and have visited and seen the flooring that will be used. It is a short carpeted floor very much like a bowls hall. Having tested the flooring the committee have deemed it perfectly acceptable for us to continue using the Moorland. We will be back in the Moorland after the 15^th October.

The County Triples which is being held on the Saturday 14^th has proved to be very popular this season. Because of the number of entries that we have had this year we are going to have a qualifying day. So there will be 2 sessions on Saturday with a finals day for the qualifiers later in the season with the date to be confirmed. Teams will be drawn into the sessions early next week and then teams will be notified of what session they are in.

02/10/23 Devon v Somerset Review

On Sunday Devon Premier travelled to Wincanton where they faced Somerset in the first ICC match of the season. Devon started off very confidently by winning both of the Singles as well as one of the Pairs. The second session was however evenly split with Devon winning both of the Triples and Somerset coming away with wins in both of the Fours. This left Devon with the advantage at half time with the score reading 6-10

Again in the second half the Devon Single players came flying out of their blocks and won both of their games. Somerset however did take 3 points from the Pairs with Devon only drawing one of the Pairs 12-12. The final session was dominated by Devon with Devon wining both of the Triples and one of the Fours. With Devon getting the bonus points in the Singles, Triples and Fours and sharing the bonus points in the Pairs the final score was Somerset 12 (161 shots) Devon 28 (221 shots)

In the other group game Dorset Premier beat Cornwall Premier 28-12, whilst Cornwall A beat Dorset A 22-18. Devon are next in action on the 15^th October when they entertain Dorset to the Manor House Hotel.

02/10/23 Devon County Fours Review

On Saturday the first County/National qualifiers took place with The Manor House hosting the County/National Fours. With 13 teams entering the competition teams were split into four groups with the top two teams in each group progressing into the quarter finals. The quarterfinals took place after lunch and teams were quickly whittled down until there was just two teams left. These two teams were Dave Woods, Rose Morrison, Gareth Hill & John Steer and Mikey Ivings, Paul Pomeroy, James Trott  & James Smith. John Steer’s rink took an early lead and by the half way stage led 5-1. James Smiths rink crawled it back and were only one behind going into the final end. However they could not complete the comeback and John Steer’s rink won the last end thanks to a tight measure winning the final 7-5.

County Fours Winners Dave Woods, Rose Morrison,
Gareth Hill & John Steer

29/09/23 Devon v Somerset Team Announced

Devon start their ICC campaign on Sunday with a trip to Wincanton where the Premier team face Somerset.  In the same group ICC champions Dorset face Cornwall at Bere Regis.  The Devon A team do not have a fixture this weekend but will face both Dorset and Cornwall in the group stage.

The address of the venue for the Wincanton match can be found here and players have been asked to be at the match for the team meeting at 9:30. The following players have been selected for the match:

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe),  Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Gareth Hill (Totnes Creameries) Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Paul Pomeroy (Musbury), Colin Sowden (Great Torrington), John Steer (Slapton), James Trott (Exeter Nomads), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

25/09/23 Margaret Elliott Pairs Review

On Saturday Devon hosted the first competition of the season down at the Manor House Hotel with the Margaret Elliott pairs. The Margaret Elliott Pairs is a nice opener to the county season with no team having any more than one county bowler. The teams were split into two groups, with everyone playing four games against other teams in their group. The top 4 in each group then went on to qualify for the quarter finals. After being whittled down the final was contested between Peter Orchard & Graham Shepherd and Alan Woodacre and Geoff Cleave, with Peter and Graham eventually winning 9-6.

Margaret Elliott Pairs Winners Graham Shepherd & Peter Orchard

11/09/23 Terry Trott Sadly Passes Away

It is with great sadness we hear that Terry Trott passed away peacefully this morning. Terry was a very keen and successful bowler; he won the County Triples in the 2001/02 season as well as the County Pairs with his son James in the 1998/99 season. He went on to represent Devon at National events and was also a member of the Devon A team that won the ICC championship in 2000. The first time Devon had ever won the ICC championship. Away from playing Terry had also been the County Secretary as well as the Secretary for the East Devon & District league.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to James, Emma and all of his family and friends.

20/08/23  County Management Team Always Scouting For Talent

The Devon County Management team are always on the lookout for emerging and new talent who would like to play for the Devon County Team. If you are interested and would like the opportunity to represent your County then please do contact Devon Premier team Manager Richard Ivings (Ivings_r@hotmail.com) or Devon A team Co Ordinator Robert Ivings (Rob.m.ivings@hotmail.co.uk).

15/08/23 Open Day review

Around 100 bowlers from across Devon attended the Open Day at the Manor House Hotel at Okehampton on Sunday. The hotel is the new home of Devon Short Mat bowls and will host County Competitions and ICC home games Those that attended were able to try out the new county mats.  Below are some photos of the venue and more can be found on our facebook page.

16/07/23 Diary uploaded and Open Day Details

The diary for the 2023/24 has now been uploaded onto the website and can be found here.

As you will notice there is an open day at our new venue, The Manor House Hotel on the 13th August. The venue will be open for members to visit between 10:30 and 15.30. The new county mats will be down and available for members to try them out so be sure to bring your bowls and shoes!

The address for the Manor House Hotel is The Manor House hotel, Fowley Cross, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 4NA and we will be based in the Moreland Bowls Hall.  The address for the venue can also be  found here.

23/06/23 New Venue Announced

It is with great pleasure that the DCSMBA can now announce a new venue for the 2023/4 season. From next season the home of Devon short mat bowls will be the Manor House Hotel near Okehampton. The Manor House Hotel is part of the Manor and Ashbury Resort and is the only sport, craft and golf resort in the UK. There is potential for players to stay overnight if they so wish and more information on this is being negotiated. Devon bowls competitions will take place at the Moreland Bowls Hall which is bright and offers plenty of room for us to hold our competitions.  The Manor Hotel are able to offer buffet lunch of 3 courses for £12 and bar refreshments are available throughout the day. The venue is quite central in Devon and is just off the A30 on the A386 and the postal address is The Manor House hotel, Fowley Cross, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 4NA

Now that a venue has been organised for the coming season we can move forward and in the next couple weeks a diary will be released as well as the Devon County/National competition forms for 2023/4. It is also hoped that we can hold an open day down at the Manor so that members can visit the bowls arena and see what it is like. Details of this will be forthcoming once known.

03/06/23 DCSMBA Selling mats

The DCSMBA have now purchased a set of new mats. Because of this we are in the process of selling our old mats. We have 2 mats that are now for sale. These are the older mats that have been held at ISCA and these are priced at £100 each. Please be aware these will need to be collected from ISCA in Exeter. If anyone wishes to purchase one of these mats please contact the County secretary  Alan Woodacre (dcsmba.sec@gmail.com)

13/05/23 DCSMBA Statement Regarding County Venue

The DCSMBA have recently been informed that Exeter Council are reducing the opening hours of their leisure facilities. This also includes our home venue ISCA and therefore calls into the question the viability of using it as our home venue for the 2023/24 season.

The committee are therefore on the lookout at the possibility of using another venue. With preparations for the new season in full progress it is important that we can get things resolved quickly so that we can confirm details for next season.

The venue needs to be large enough so that we can put out at least 8 mats. We will also need to be able to store all the mats and associated equipment at the venue. We would also consider what other facilities such as food and drink are available. We would like to draw upon the knowledge of our members and ask if any member knows of a venue that potentially could accommodate us please can they contact a committee member so that we can visit and investigate its viability to host us.

17/04/23 National Under 18's & ICC Finals Review

On Saturday the ESMBA held the final Nationals of the season with the National under 18’s. The sole representative from Devon was Sean Woodley. Sean breezed through the group stage winning all his games and topping his group. Sean was able to successfully negotiate his way through all the way to the final. In the final he met Matthew Hardwood from Kent. The first few were tight but eventually Matthew pulled away. Despite his best-efforts Sean couldn’t quite overturn the deficit and Sean ended up being defeated 14-8.

On Sunday, the ICC finals took place Dorset ended the West Midlands recent dominance in the sport by beating them 24-16 to take the title. In the A team final Kent beat Hampshire and in the Premier 2 final Cheshire confidently beat Wiltshire. Whilst in the Premier 1 relegation battle Essex overcame Hampshire beating them 24-16.

14/04/23 AGM Report

Last night  the DCSMBA held its annual AGM at 7pm at Christow. As seems to be the norm in the County’s AGMs it was poorly attended with a low level of members attending and very few clubs being represented. The AGM saw a new committee formed.

The new committee can be found on the committee page. As seen there are vacancies for the East area rep and 2 committee member posts. If anyone would like to fill these posts please contact a committee member for more information

02/04/23 ESMBA Nationals Review

The last few days the ESMBA have held the National finals in Melton Mowbray and several Devon teams qualified for the finals. On Thursday it was the National Singles. Chris East and Tony Main both failed to get out of the round robin stage. John Steer qualified but in the last 32 he was beaten 9-8 by Dorset’s and recent World Singles Champion Alex Kley. James Trott Made it through to the next round where he was beaten 12-6 by Richard Jeffrey (West Sussex). The title was retained by Alex Kley (Dorset) who beat Neil Rixon of Hertfordshire in the final.

On Friday it was time for the Pairs. Rachel Wright and Eric Pavey finished 3^rd in the round robin and failed to qualify for the knockout stages. Also failing to get out of their group was Adam Perris and Gill Cawrse as they too finished 3^rd. In the last 32 both of the remaining Devon teams were knocked out. Mikey Ivings and James Trott were beaten by Steve Packer and Steve Duffin 5- 6. Whilst George Main and Elliott James lost 11-4 against the Cheshire pair Paul Clegg and Jay Finney. The final was won by Gloucestershire’s Ryan Knight and Saul Featherstone.

The Fours was held on the Saturday and Devon once again had four teams in the competition. The quartet of Kim Wright, Sandra Weston, Barry McPhillips and Eric Pavey failed to qualify out of their group. Claire Lloyd, Tom Archer, Ava Cattell and Steve Collins were knocked out 7-3  by Shropshire in the first knockout round. Michael Avery, George Main, Elliott James and Tony Main reached the next round before they were beaten by Norfolk 10-5. The remaining Four of Maddie Edmondson, Adam Perris, Gill Cawrse and Nick Wyatt reached the semi finals before they were beaten on an extra end by West Midlands who went on to retain their title.

The final day was the Triples and once again Devon had four representatives in the competition. Both Kim Wright, Barry McPhillips & Eric Pavey & Mikey Ivings, David Glennerster & James Trott had an early bath and failed to qualify out of their respective groups. In the last 32 Cheshire beat George Main, Elliott James & Tony Main 12-3. Going one step further was Adam Perris, Gill Cawrse and Nick Wyatt who were beaten 10-7 by North Yorkshire. North Yorkshire went on to win the title beaten Hampshire in the final.

27/03/23 ICC Semi Finals Review

Devon Premier travelled to Guildford on Sunday where they faced reigning champions the West Midlands in the ICC semi finals. In the first session Devon won two games with victories in one of singles and one of the Pairs. The second session saw another two victories with wins in one of the Triples and one of the fours. This left the half time score at 8-8.

The third session again was evenly split with wins in one of the Singles and one of the Pairs. The bonus points were evenly split with Devon winning the singles bonus points whilst West Midlands won the bonus points in the Pairs. The fours and final session of the day was once again split evenly with victories in one of the Triples and one of the Fours. However, what proved decisive was that West Midlands won the bonus points in both disciples. The final score was Devon 18 (174 shots) West Midlands 22 (219 shots). The west midlands now go on to face Dorset who beat Norfolk in the other semi final.

The A team were also in ICC semi final action and they travelled to Solihull where they faced Hampshire. The first session was evenly split with Devon winning one of the Singles and one of the Pairs. Hampshire was able to edge ahead in the second and Devon only gained 3 points following a win in one of the Triples and drawing one of the Fours. This left the half time score at 9-7 to Hampshire.

The third session of the day was evenly split with Devon winning one of the Singles and one of the Pairs. Defeats on the other two mats however meant that Hampshire picked up  all the bonus points for these disciplines. The final session was againb split with Devon winning both of the Triples but losing in both of the Fours. With Devon only winning the bonus points in the Triples the final score was Devon 19 (177 shots) Hampshire 21 (199 shots). Hampshire A go on to the final where they face Kent who beat Norfolk in the other semi final.

24/03/23 ICC Semi Finals Preview

Both Devon County teams are in action this Sunday in the ICC semi finals. Devon Premier travel to Wey Valley IBC in Guildford where they take on current champions West Midlands. Details for Wey Valley can be found here. The A team meanwhile travel to Solihull where they take on Hampshire. Details for Solihull IBC can be found here. The following players have been selected for the matches:

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe),  Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads), David Glennerster (Exeter Nomads), Gareth Hill (Exeter Nomads) Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads), Colin Sowden (Great Torrington), James Trott (Musbury), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Sean Woodley (Christow), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

A Team: Rob Bartlett (Exeter Nomads), Ava Cattell (Christow), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Bridget Hallowes (Ottery St Mary), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston), Robert Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Ian Nicholls (Christow), John Parnell (Abbotskerswell), Shirley Parnell (Arbbotskerswell), Diane Sheppherd (Winkleigh), Graham Shepherd (Winkleigh), Marie Toleman (Exeter Nomads),  Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Tony Wanklin (Exeter Nomads), Stuart Weighall (Bere Alston), Alan Woodacre (Goodleigh), Lee Woodacre (Goodleigh), Ray Young (Exeter Nomads) Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

08/03/23 AGM Announcement

The 2023 DCSMBA AGM has been scheduled for 13th April at 7pm at Christow Short mat bowls club. All posts with the exception of the A Team Manager are up for election. The majority of the present committee are willing to stand again, however that does not preclude any member from standing for a position.

Associated documents for the AGM and the address of the venue can be found here on the AGM Page

27/02/23 National Mixed Fours  & National Over 55 Pairs Finals Review

This weekend saw the ESMBA hold the finals or the National Mixed Fours and the over 55 Pairs. This was held at Solihull and Devon had several teams who had qualified on both days. On the Saturday it was the Mixed Fours and Devon had three teams in the competition and all three topped their group in the round robin stage and qualified or the knockout rounds. The Devon team of Rita and John Redstone, Graham James and Lorraine Axtell were knocked out 13-1 in the last 16 by the West Midlands. The quarter finals saw the remaining two Devon teams facing each other, with the rink of Diane Shepherd, Gill Cawrse, George Main and Elliott James beating last years finalists Carol Dummett, Chloe Rundle, Nick Wyatt and James Trott 2-11. After winning their semi final against Gloucester Eliott’s rink faced Essex in the final. Essex led the final throughout with the Devon rink keeping in touch. On the final end Devon were holding 4 and with their last wood Essex was not able to change the situation meaning Devon won the National Mixed Fours title.

National Mixed Fours Winners George Main, Gill Cawrse, Diane Shepherd & Elliott James

On Sunday Devon had four teams in the National Over 55’s Pairs. The pairings of Stewart Weighall & Jim Kittle and Richard Williams & Mike Avery both finished 3^rd in their group and failed to qualify for the knockout stages. In the last 16 the two remaining Devon teams faced each other with Cedron Caine & Eric Pavey overcoming Ann & Dave Summers 8-7. The remaining Devon pair made it to the semi finals before they were knocked out 10-4 by Oxfordshire. The National over 55 Pairs title was won by Chris Hopkins and Steve McAlister of Northamptonshire.

30/01/23 County/National Pairs & County/National Mixed Fours Review

This weekend saw the final county competitions of the season, with the County Pairs finals day on Saturday and the County/National Mixed Fours on the Sunday. There were 22 teams who Qualified for the finals day and these were split into 6 groups.The top two teams in each group qualified for the knockouts. After a competitive days bowling teams were whittled down until only two remained who contested the final. In the final was Rachel Wright and Eric Pavey (Sidbury) against Mikey Ivings (Exeter Nomads) and James Trott (Musbury). Michael and James were able to edge ahead as the final progressed and came out as eventual winners. Joining both finalists at the nationals are Adam Perris and Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads) and George Main and Elliott James (Yarnscombe).

Mikey Ivings & James Trott County Pairs Winners

On Sunday the rearranged County/ Mixed Fours took place. This was originally scheduled for September but was rearranged following the death of the Queen. There were 10 teams and these were split in to three groups with two winners qualifying fo rthe semi finals and the third remaining group winner along with the second place teams qualifying for a playoff to determine who would take up the final two semi-final spots. Following the playoff and semi-final the final was contested between Diane Shepherd, Gill Cawrse, George Main & Elliott James and Carol Dummett, Chloe Rundle, Nick Wyatt and James Trott, with James Trott’s rink finally winning after an extra end.  Both finalists will be joined by Rita & John Redstone, Graham James & Lorraine Axtel at the nationals after they beat the Christow rink skipped by Steve Collins in the third/fourth place playoff.

Carol Dummett, Chloe Rundle, James Trott & Nick Wyatt County/National Mixed Fours Winners

23/01/23 Devon v Dorset Review

On Sunday Devon hosted Dorset in the final ICC group game. The Devon Premier team went into the match knowing that their qualification alongside Dorset had already been ensured. The first session was very tight with Dorset winning one of the Singles, but the three others mats all drew. The second session saw 2 further draws but Dorset was able to win the remaining two matches. This mean that the half time score was11-5 to Dorset.

Dorset really turned the screw in the second half and in the third session they won all 4 mats ensuring that Devon were defeated. In the final session of the day Devon won on just one mat after a 15-6 win in one of the Fours. With Dorset winning all 8 bonus points the final score was Devon 7 148 shots) Dorset 33 (212 shots)

The Devon A team knew they had to do a little bit of work to ensure qualification but a victory or a very narrow defeat would ensure they finished top of the group. Devon took the lead in the first session of the day with wins in both of the Pairs and one of the Singles. In the second session Devon won one of the Triples and drew the other Triples match. Whilst the Fours was evenly split with both counties winning one match each. This left the half time score at 11-5 to Devon.

The third session saw Devon tighten their grip on the match with Devon winning one of the Singles and drawing the other Singles, whilst also winning one of the Pairs. The final session saw Devon win 3 out of the four remaining games only losing in one of the Fours. With Devon getting the bonus points in the Pairs and Triples as well as sharing the bonus points in the Singles and Fours the final score was Devon 28 (201 shots) Dorset 12 (155) shots).

Both teams have now qualified for the Semi Finals and we await information from the ESMBA regarding the opposition.

23/01/23 County/National Singles Preview

On Saturday 30 players descended onto ISCA for the County/National Singles. Players were split into 8 groupos with the top 2 players in each group progressing. After several knockout rounds the final two people remaining were John Steer (Slapton) and Tony Main (Yarnscombe). In what was a thrilling final that could have gone either way it was John that was victorious and took the title. Joining John and Tony at the nationals will be James Trott and Chris East.

John Steer County Singles Winner

20/01/23 Devon v Dorset Team Announced

Devon host Dorset in the final group game of the season at ISCA on Sunday. The premier team go into the match knowing that they have already qualified for the semi finals alongside Dorset and so go into the match with just pride to play for. The A team still have a bit of work to do. 10 points will ensure that they finish second in the group and will likely have to play a playoff. A win or a narrow loss will ensure they top the table and will make it to the quarter finals. The match starts at 10am and spectators are welcome to watch. The following players have been selected for the match and are requested to be at ISCA at 9:15am: 

Devon Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe), Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads), David Glennister (Exeter Nomads), Gareth Hill (Exeter Nomads), Mikey Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Graham James (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Colin Sowden (Great Torrington), James Trott (Musbury), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries),  Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

Devon A Team: Rob Bartlett (Exeter Nomads), Ava Cattell (Christow), Elaine Clements  (Great Torrington), Budgie Hallows (Ottery St Mary), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston), Richard Mason (Exeter Nomads), Ian Nicholls (Christow), Carol Osbourne (Sidbury), John Parnell (Abbotskerswell), Shirley Parnell (Abbotskerswell), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads), Graham Shepherd (Winkleigh),  Marie Toleman (Exeter Nomads), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Tony Wanklin (Exeter Nomads), Stewart Weighill (Bere Alston), Alan Woodacre (Goodleigh), Lee Woodacre (Goodleigh), Sue Young (Exeter Nomads)

02/01/23 National Allocations

We have now received our allocations for the national finals. We have 4 spots in the National Singles, National Pairs,  National Triples National Fours and The over 55 Pairs. We have 3 spots in the National Mixed Fours and one spot in the National Under 18's.

The Singles, Pairs and Mixed Fours Competition at a County level are due to be completed in January.

12/12/22 Brian Medland Mixed Fours & Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples Preview

This weekend it was a final visit to ISCA for the last two competitions of the year. On the Saturday ISCA hosted the Brian Medland Mixed Fours which is held every year in honour of our former chairman. 12 teams braved the weather and attended, and everyone was in one round robin group. After the group sessions the top two teams in the group contested the final. This was between Kim Wrihght, Sandra Weston, Barry McPhillips and Eric Pavey against Alan & Lee Woodacre and John & Shirley Parnell, with John’s rink eventually winning through.

Brian Medland Mixed Fours Winners Alan & Lee Woodacre and Shirley & John Parnell

On Sunday it was time to don our Christmas hats and jumpers as it was time for the Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples. The 18 teams that attended were randomly drawn into 4 groups and after the round robin stage the top team in each group qualified for the semi finals. The semi finals were won by Rita Redstone, Graham James & Lorraine Axtell and Caroline Pavey, Pam & Colin Palmer. The final was a close affair and the game ended in a tie and so an extra ended was needed with the Sidbury trio skipped by Colin Palmer just edging it.

Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples Winners Pam & Colin Palmer and Caroline Pavey

09/12/22 Brian Medland Mixed Fours & Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples

This weekend sees ISCA hold the final two competitions of the year. On Saturday we have the Brian Medland Mixed Fours held in memory of our former chairman. On Sunday ISCA hosts the Ho! Ho! Ho! Triples and as usual we will be holding a raffle. 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.

02/12/22 Cornwall v Devon Preview

On Sunday both Devon Premier and Devon A travelled down to Carmorggas IBC  to face Cornwall in the penultimate ICC group fixture. The Devon Premier got off to a flying start and in the first session they won on all four mats picking up a maximum of eight points. The premier team kept up the pressure and only lost one match in the second session. However with victories in both of the Fours and of the Triples, Devon extended their lead. The half time score was Cornwall 2 Devon 14. The third session was split evenly with Devon winning of the Singles (20-3) and one of the Pairs (9-8) but losing on the other two mats. In the final session Devon gained an extra 6 points with victories in both of the Fours and one of the Triples. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Fours the final score was Cornwall 10 (155 shots) Devon 30 (206 shots). In the other corresponding fixture Dorset comprehensively beat Hampshire 34-6.

The result mean that Devon’s final group match against Dorset is a dead rubber with Dorset winning the group and Devon finishing second. The Cornwall v Hampshire game will decide who has to face a dreaded relegation playoff. For Devon they can now look forward to a semi final game that will take place in March.

Devon A went into the match against Cornwall knowing a win would keep them on course to qualify from the group. However Cornwall got off to a better start with Devon only gaining three points from the first session. This was thanks to a 12-12 draw in one of the Singles and a 23-2 win in one of the Pairs. Devon did respond in the second session in which they won six out of eight points with victories in both of the Triples and one of the Fours. This left the half time score at 9-7 to Devon. The third session was split equally between the two counties with both of the Singles losing but both of the Pairs winning. Going into the final session the match could have gone either way, however the session was once again split equally. Devon was able to win one of the Triples and one of the Fours comfortably but lost on the other two mats. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Pairs, Triples and Fours the final score was Cornwall 17 (160 shots) Devon 23.

Devon A now lie second in their group with Devon v Dorset being the only fixture left to play in their group. Devon need 11 points to ensure they finish second in the group but they will be going into the game knowing a match victory or a narrow loss will ensure they top the table. The latest group standings can be found here.

02/12/22 Cornwall v Devon Preview

Both Devon County teams travel to Carnmoggas IBC on Sunday where there face Cornwall in the latest round of the Inter County Championship. The Premier team go intro the match fully aware that a good result will confirm their qualification into the semi-finals. The Devon A team know that although they lie bottom of the table, they have a game in hand to both Dorset and Cornwall. 2 good results in their remaining 2 games will be enough to secure advancement to the next stage of the competition. The match is due to start at 10am and players are asked to be at the venue at 9:30 for the usual team meetings. The following players have been selected for the match  

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Gill Cawrse (Exeter Nomads), David Glennister (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliott James (Yarnscombe) , Graham James (Yarnscombe), George Main (Yarnscombe, Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Margaret Smith (Exeter Nomads), Colin Sowden (Great Torrington), James Trott (Musbury), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries), Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

A Team: Rob Bartlett (Exeter Nomads), Ava Cattell (Christow), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Bridget Hallowes (Ottery St Mary), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston), Richard Mason (Exeter Nomads), Ian Nicholls (Christow), Carol Osbourne (Sidbury), John Parnell (Abbotskerswell), Shirley Parnell (Artbbotskerswell), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads), John Redstone (Winkleigh), Graham Shepherd (Winkleigh), Marie Toleman (Exeter Nomads), Pam Toleman (Exeter Nomads), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Tony Wanklin (Exeter Nomads), Stuart Weighall (Bere Alston), Alan Woodacre (Goodleigh), Lee Woodacre (Goodleigh)

26/11/22 County/National Pairs Prelim Details

Due to the amount of entrants in the County/National Pairs this season it has been necessary to hold a preliminary day which will be held on the 3rd December. The qualifiers will then return to ISCA on the 28th January for the final stage. There are two sessions of preliminaries on Saturday and players have been randomly drawn into either a morning session (9am sign in) or an afternoon session (1pm sign in). The list of players can be found by clicking this link.

To ensure that all entrants are aware of the times they are due to attend please communicate this information to fellow club members. To ensure that we are aware the information has got out to the relevant players please either respond to the corresponding facebook post or email James Trott on Eastarearep@devonshortrmat.co.uk

11/11/22 Devon v Hampshire Review

On Sunday the Devon Premier team played host to Hampshire as they strived to maintain the momentum they had built in recent games. The Premier team sat 2^nd in the group but knew a win could put some distance between themselves and Cornwall and Hampshire. It was a quick start by Devon and in the first session they won both of the Pairs, and one of the Singles, whilst drawing the remaining Singles match. In the second session it was a clean sweep with Devon winning both of the Triples as well as the Fours. This left the half time score at 15-1 to Devon.

It was a similar story in the afternoon sessions. Both of the Singles won whilst one of the Pairs drew and the remaining lost their match. In the final session of the day Devon won both of the Triples and one of the Fours whilst drawing the remaining Fours match. With Devon winning all eight available bonus points the final score was Devon 35 (240 shots) Hampshire 5 (135 shots).  With 2 league games remaining the Devon Premier team are in second spot and 41 points above Hampshire who are in third spot and 44poits above Cornwall who are 4^th. The league table can be found here. Both Devn Premier and Devon A travel to  Cornwall next on the 4^th December

11/11/22 Devon v Hampshire Preview

The Devon County Premier Team return to ISCA on Sunday when they face Hampshire. The team sit second in the group table and will be looking to continue the good form that they are in following wins against Hampshire (away) and Cornwall (home).

 Players are asked to be at ISCA for 9:30 whilst the match starts at 10am. Spectators are welcome to come and support the team and the following players have been selected for the match.

Premier Team; Mike Avery (Yarnscombe), Benny Bass (Uffculme), David Glennister (Exeter Nomads), Michael Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Colin Sowden (Great Torrington),  Gill Smith (Exeter Nomads), Margaret Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Trott (Musbury), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries),  Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Sean Woodley (Christow), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

07/11/22 County/National Singles Prelim Details

Due to the amount of entrants in the County/National Singles this season it has been necessary to hold a preliminary day which will be held this Saturday. As announced earlier this month the qualifiers from the prelims will then return to ISCA on the 21^st January. There are two sessions of preliminaries on Saturday and players have been randomly drawn into either a morning session (9am sign in) or an afternoon session (1pm sign in). The list of players can be found by clicking this link.

To ensure that all entrants are aware of the times they are due to attend please communicate this information to fellow club members. To ensure that we are aware the information has got out to the relevant players please either respond to the corresponding facebook post or email James Trott on Eastarearep@devonshortrmat.co.uk

07/11/22 County/National Triples & Over 55 Pairs Review

This weekend saw a double header of competitions at ISCA with the County/National Triples on the Saturday and the County/National Over 55’s Pairs on Sunday. On Saturday there was 25 teams and these were split into 8 groups and after the round robin stage the top two qualified from each group in the last 16 round. After lunch the knock out stages took place and teams were rattled down to the final. The final two teams were the Yarnscombe trio of George Main, Elliott James & Tony Main and Mikey Ivings, David Glennister and James Trott. It was a tussle of a final and going into the final end the score was level at 6-6. However, with the jack in the ditch Dave Glennister’s wood was holding shot and remained there until the very end of the end ensuring James Trott's team picked up the one shot to win the title.

County Triples Winners Mikey Ivings, James Trott & David Glennister

On Sunday there were 31 teams in the National Over 55 Pairs and once again these were split into 8 groups with the top two in each group qualifying for the knock out stages with this taking place after the lunch break. The knock out stages were played until we were left just two teams competing in the final. The first team was Stewart Weighill and Jim Kiltie from Bere Alston who had beaten Richard Williams and Mike Avery in the semi final. Whilst the other team was Cedron Caine & Eric Pavey from Sidbury who had beaten Ann & Dave Summers in the other semi final. The final was dominated by the Sidbury pair, and they eventually won by a handful. 

Devon's National Over 55's Winnners Cedron Caine & Eric Pavey

03/11/22 Latest Diary Updates

There has been several changes to the Diary. The Singles on November 12th and the Pairs on December 3rd will be qualifying days due to the amount of entries with the qualifiers going into finals days in January. The finals day for the Singles is 21st January and the Pairs final day is 28th January. In addition the Mixed Fours which was postponed in January has been arranged for the 29th January.

The diary of events has been updated to reflect these changes and can be found here.

31/10/22 Devon v Cornwall Review

ISCA hosted Devon’s first home ICC game in three years on Sunday when Devon took on Cornwall in the latest round of Fixtures. The Premier team were looking to build upon the last game where they handsomely beat Hampshire in Winchester. Cornwall however had other ideas and in the first session Devon only came away with one win and that was in one of the Pairs who won 17-13. Devon roared back into the game in the second session where they picked up 7 points out of the eight available with wins in both of the Fours and one of the Triples, whilst the other Triples came away with credible draw in the remaining Triples. This left Devon with a narrow half time lead with the scores at 9-7 to Devon.

The afternoon sessions followed a similar pattern to the morning session. In the third session Cornwall again broke away with 3 victories and Devon only won one mat with a 12-10 win in one of the Pairs. In the final session of the day Devon brought it back with wins in both of the Fours and one of the Triples as well as a draw ion the remaining Triples game. With Devon Premier winning  the bonus points in the Triples and Fours the final score was Devon 22 (192 shots) Cornwall 18 (194 shots). Art the half way stage Devon lie second in the table 11 points above Hampshire who they face in their next ICC fixture. The group standings can be found here.

Devon Managers Richard Ivings (Premier Team) & Robert Ivings (A Team)

Devon A were playing their second game of the season and were looking to bounce back following a defeat away to Dorset.  The first session saw the points split evenly between the two counties with both teams winning one Singles and one Pairs match. The second session saw Cornwall move in front with Devon only securing 3 points, with one of the Triples winning 15-8 and one of the Fours drawing 9-9. This left Cornwall edging it at half time with the scores at 7-9.

Devon sprung into life in the second half of the match and in third session gained maximum points following wins on all four mats. With Devon ahead the victory was complete in the final session of the day where Devon won both Triples and one of the Fours. With Devon winning the bonus points in the Singles, Pairs and Triples the final score was Devon 27 (194 shots) Cornwall 13 (156 shots). Devon A sit top of the table at the halfway stage however there are just 5 points separating all 3 teams. The group standings can be found here. Devon A next face Cornwall in December.

26/10/22 Devon V Cornwall Preview

The Devon County teams play their first home game on Sunday at ISCA when they face Cornwall. The Premier team will be looking to build on the confident win away to Hampshire in the last game. Whilst Devon A will be wanting to get the first win of the season after they lost their first game away to Dorset. Players are asked to be at ISCA for 9:30 whilst the match starts at 10am. Spectators are welcome to come and support the teams and the following players have been selected for the match.

Premier Team; Mike Avery (Yarnscombe), Benny Bass (Uffculme), David Glennister (Exeter Nomads) Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), Elliot James (Yarnscombe) George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Colin Sowden (Great Torrington),  Gill Smith (Exeter Nomads), Margaret Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Trott (Musbury), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries),  Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

A Team; Rob Bartlett (Exeter Nomads), Ava Cattell (Christow), Elaine Clements (Great Torrington), Bridget Hallowes (Ottery St Mary), Luis Inacio (Bere Alston), Hilary Iley (Exeter Nomads), Richard Mason (Exeter Nomads), Ian Nicholls (Christow), John Parnell (Abbotskerswell), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads), John Redstone (Winkleigh), Chloe Rundle (Exeter Nomads), Graham Shepherd (Winkleigh), Marie Toleman (Exeter Nomads), Pam Toleman (Exeter Nomads), Trevor Tregillus (Christow), Tony Wanklin (Exeter Nomads), Stuart Weighall (Bere Alston), Alan Woodacre (Goodleigh), Lee Woodacre (Goodleigh)

10/10/22 Hampshire v Devon Review

The Devon Premier team travelled to Winchester on Sunday where they faced Hampshire in the latest ICC fixture. The team were aiming to bounce back after suffering a heavy defeat against Dorset. The Devon team did spring out of the traps and secured wins in both of the Pairs and one of the Singles in the first session. Devon did not take their foot off the gas in the second session and won both of the Triples and Fours ensuring a maximum point haulage from the session. This left the half time score at 14-2 to Devon.

The third session was split with Devon winning one Singles and one Pairs and Singles and Hampshire winning on the other two mats. The final session was again split with Devon winning one of the Triples and one of the Fours. With Devon winning the bonus points in all four disciplines the final score was Hampshire 10 (168 shots) Devon 30 (195 shots).

In the other ICC group game Dorset beat Cornwall 36-4. The latest group tables can be found here. The next game for both Devon Premier and A is at ISCA when they host Cornwall on the 30^th October.

10/10/22County/National Fours Review

On Saturday ISCA played host to the County/National Fours and saw 15 teams try to win the title. As per normal the day started with a round robin stage with the two teams from each group progressing to the quarter finals. The eight teams that were then left battled through to the final. The final was played between the Yarnscombe team of Mike Avery, George Main,  Elliott James & Tony Main and the Sidbury Team of Kim Wright, Sandra Weston, Barry McPhillips & Eric Pavey. In what proved to be a tight affair it was 4-4 after 5 ends. The two teams continued to trade blows and going into the last end the score was 5-5. Yarnscombe were holding shot going into the last  bowl of the end, however Eric was able to hit the split and gain the shot that Sidbury needed to win the game.

County Fours Winners Eric Pavey, Kim Wright, Sandra Weston & Barry McPhillips

05/10/22 Hampshire v Devon Preview

The Devon premier team travel to Winchester where they face Hampshire this Sunday. The team will be looking to bounce back following the heavy defeat against Dorset in their last game. The match is being played at Riverside IBC and details of the venue can be found here. The match is due to start at 10am and players are requested to be at the venue for a 9:30 team meeting. The following players have been selected for the match:

Premier Team: Mike Avery (Yarnscombe), Benny Bass (Uffculme), Elliott James (Yarnscombe), Richard Ivings (Exeter Nomads), George Main (Yarnscombe), Tony Main (Yarnscombe), Rose Morrison (Totnes Creameries), Eric Pavey (Sidbury), Adam Perris (Exeter Nomads), Rob Phipps (Exeter Nomads) Colin Sowden (Great Torrington), Gill Smith (Exeter Nomads), Margaret Smith (Exeter Nomads), James Trott (Musbury), Paul Weeks (Great Torrington), Richard Williams (Exeter Nomads), Dave Woods (Totnes Creameries),  Kim Wright (Sidbury), Rachel Wright (Sidbury), Nick Wyatt (Bow)

26/09/22 Dorset v Devon Review

On Sunday both the Devon Premier and Devon A team travelled to Dorset where they played in the first ICC fixture of the season. It was a hard day for the Premier team. In the first session out of all fours mats Devon only managed to win one of the Singles 16-14 but lost on the three other mats. In the second session it was a clean sweep for Dorset in the Triples and the Fours where they won on all four mats. This left the half time score at Dorset 14 Devon 2.

It didnt get much better for Devon in the afternoon. In the third session Devon managed a solitary point with a 12-12 draw in one of the Pairs. The final session saw Devon gain another two points with a 14-12 victory in one of the Fours. With Dorset Winning the bonud points in all four disciplines the final score was Dorset 35 (255 shots) Devon 5 (149 shots).

The Devon A team got off to a confident start and recorded wins in both of the Singles (16-12 & 20-7) as well as one of the Pairs (15-9). Dorset edged the second session however Devon did pick up a9-9 draw in one of the Triples and also recorded a 14-7 win in one of the Fours. This left the half time score at 9-7 to Devon

In the third session Dorset came back into the match and Devon only recorded 2 points and that was thanks to a 17-9 win in one of the Singles. The final session was also a struggle with Devon only winning one of the Triples (23-7). With Devon only gaining the bonus points in the Singles the final score was Dorset 25 (208 shots) Devon 15 (186 shots).

The Devon Premier team will be looking to bounce back in on the 9^th October when they travel to Winchester to face Hampshire. The A team next face Cornwall at ISCA on 30^th October.

26/09/22 Margaret Elliott Pairs Review

On Saturday the Seasons competitions started at ISCA with the Margaret Elliott Pairs. The competitions saw 19 pairs descend on to the venue and these pairs were split into 6 groups. With all the teams progressing to the knockouts, the groups standings determined if you had to play a preliminary round. With the group stage and the preliminary round taking place in the morning the afternoon saw a straight knock out with the remaining teams until we were left with two. In what was a rerum of last years final. Lee and Alan Woodacre (Goodleigh) faced Marcus Cattell and Steve Collins (Christow) with the Christow pair wining13-1 and retaining the title.

Margaret Elliott Pairs Winners Steve Collins and Marcus Cattell

21/09/22 Dorset v Devon Preview