Monday May 11th 2026.
Customary pre-match Group Shot
With winter finally behind us, this was the first Friends’ game of 2026. With 27 fixtures scheduled across the country, it marks the start of a busy spell — including three matches in the Oxford area. The Abingdon green looked and played beautifully, and their electronic scoreboard kept us all well informed throughout the afternoon.
After the game we enjoyed an excellent two‑course dinner, followed by a short and very engaging history of the club given by Bill Turner. The club was founded in 1913 as a men‑only establishment, with ladies admitted from 1971.
President Ron Smith welcomed everyone before handing over to Captain of the Day, Christine Belcher.
The match finished in a 93–93 draw, though it was quietly agreed that we wouldn’t dwell on the fact that the Friends won four rinks to two. Christine thanked the kitchen team — Lorette, Sheila, Rowena and Ann — along with bar staff Mike, Alan and Ann. Abingdon’s top rink was Denise, Isabel, Maurice and Paul.
Christine then introduced the Friends’ Captain of the Day, Neil Fletcher, who gave a brief outline of the Friends’ history before congratulating the winning rinks for both sides. Friends top rink were Maddie McConomy, Michael Andrew, Michael Poole and Tony Waller. The Friends’ losing rink were also recognised, received Kit Kats, with the gentle suggestion that they might like to “take a break”.
-
- Abingdon’s Top Rink
-
- Tony, Michael P, Maddie & Michael J : Friends Top Rink
-
- Bill & Liz : a great raffle
-
- Friends Presentation to President Ron Smith
-
- Sheila, Lorette, Rowena & Ann
-
- Mike & Anne
A very enjoyable afternoon concluded with warm wishes to Abingdon for a successful year ahead.
Neil Fletcher
Friends Captain of the Day