Report on two Bowls England Celebration Matches hosted by Gosforth BC on Friday 20th and Portland 21st June.
These matches were arranged last season to help celebrate the BE Presidential office of Gosforth and Bowls Northumberland player Sheila Storey. Due to health reasons Sheila had to stand down but BE wanted the matches to go ahead as arranged.
On Friday a BE squad of 24 players made up of 15 from southern counties and 9 local invited players (led by Captain of the Day Vic.Emmerson) baked under a very hot sun along with a mixed team from Gosforth. The President of Gosforth Simon Richardson welcomed Foster Johnson BE Director of Governance to the Club. These matches are all about celebrating our sport and the pleasure achieved from a good game. There was an abundance of good sportsmanship and a nuisance heckler could be heard along side a lot of laughter. Having good weather, good company and a fantastic buffet tea which was provided by Gosforth the score didn’t matter at all (BE won !!!).
Next day the same 15 BE players with another 9 locals invited by Sheila, who was Captain of the Day for BE, played against 12 male and 12 female Bowls Northumberland representatives led by their Captain Rob Donkin. This was hosted by Portland BC who celebrated last season their 150 years. Vice President Richard Varley welcomed Foster Johnson the BE representative who again had travelled far to be with us (Durham).
The weather forecast was for torrential rain so we managed an earlier start but the rain came early too. It was warm rain and did not last long and it did not dampen the spirit. An interesting mix of players formed the Bowls Northumberland team. A lot of the ladies did not know their men and vice versa the men, so some interesting play throughout. The heckler appeared again but seemed to encourage the talented bowlers. Some locals needed handicapping but the BE squad never seemed worried. Again the game was played with great fun, laughter oooo’s and aaaa’s and with good fellowship.
Behind the scenes the gentlemen of Portland where very industrious in the kitchen preparing and providing a very welcome afternoon tea for the players and guests.
Presentations were made after tea and Foster in his thanks hoped Portland continued to have a successful future.
Er forgot to say BE won !!!
Both Clubs and players showed Northumberland at its best. Thank you!