🤝 The Friendly Fixture vs Bowls England
It all begins with the group shot !
On Thursday 28th August, Friends took to the green for their annual match against Bowls England. This year’s opposition featured players from the Performance Team, including Sandy Hazell, Mo Monkton, John Bell, and Mal Evans—setting the stage for a competitive afternoon.
At halfway, Friends trailed by just seven shots and led on three rinks. But Bowls England surged in the second half, securing a 113–79 win, with Friends claiming victory on one rink.
The day concluded with a convivial meal at Leamington Spa B.C., where speeches preceded supper. Jon Cockcroft, CEO of Bowls England, expressed gratitude for the Friends’ ongoing support and outlined exciting developments ahead—including the sport’s amalgamation and upcoming international events: the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2026 and World Bowls returning to Leamington in 2027.
Mike Bertrand responded warmly, encouraging new members to join and enjoy similar fixtures across the country. Gifts were presented to the highest winning rink—Maxine Fletcher, Michael Andrew, Jackie Bryant, and Paul Songer—and to Paul Green, SV President of Bowls England, who served as Green Captain.
Dinner featured hearty pies, mash, vegetables, and a classic Eton Mess. A lively raffle followed, with generous prizes donated by Friends and Bowls England.
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- Let play commence
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- Congratulations Michael, Maxine, Paul, and Jackie with CoD Mike Bertrand
As the evening drew to a close, players returned to the greens or their lodgings, rounding off a memorable chapter in the Friends’ calendar.
Mike Bertrand
Captain of the Day