Club News
March 2012
STOP PRESS!! Connaught 'A win Dennis Moore and Connaught 'B' finish joint 3rd. Connaught 'B' beat Connaught 'A' in Fours final
Click here to view results February 2012
STOP PRESS!! NORWICH CUP SEMI-FINAL FIRST LEG MONDAY 20 FEB: SPROWSTON 7 CONNAUGHT 'A' 17. SECOND LEG AT HONE TUES 21 FEB
UPDATE - CONNAUGHT 'A' WIN HOME LEG 10-2 (MATCH CONCEDED) AND ADVANCE TO THEIR 2ND SUCCESSIVE FINAL
SICILIAN EVENING - a huge "thank you" to Carolina and Giuseppe (Joe) Li-Rocchi for a terrific Sicilian-style meal enjoyed by 46 people on Saturday evening 18 February. Carolina really went to town with her cooking and Joe showed all those famed Italian waiting on table skills. With background music and décor in appropriate style and with threatening-looking characters in black suits and dark glasses, a small piece of Sicily found its way to the drab English winter. Thank you to Sandra and Richard Adcock and to Heather and John Winup for their help on the day. Even better news is that Carolina enjoyed it all so much she would like to do another evening later in the year. Roll on! Click here to view SICILIAN EVENING Photographs
FUTURE DATE - AHOY EVENING Saturday evening 24 March 7.00pm. A sort of bingo with playing cards! £2 per head and bring a plate. Names on noticeboard, please
January 2012
SUBSCRIPTION NIGHT - Saturday 28 January 7.00pm onwards. Also 100 Club subs will be collected. Nibbles provided by club£1.00 off your first drink.
SUNDAY LUNCH - 22 January. Tremendous meal provided by Sandra Adcock with tremendous support from Sylvia Parsons; also much hard work by the two waiters, Richard and Mike. And Ken Lurcock kept his nerve behind the bar, for once having to serve a mass of customers on a Sunday! All in all, a big "thumbs up" from the 40+ people who attended
SICILIAN EVENING - Saturday 18 February 6.00pm for 6.30pm: £7.00 per head. 3-Course meal provided by Carolina and Joe Li-Rocchi, who will also give a short talk/answer questions about life in Sicily and England. Already a sell-out - we have had to close the books on 46 attending (including organisers). Our kitchen is fine but just a bit small for hot meals catering
Breckland Short Mat League Five Pairs Semi Finals played at Banham 18th January 2012 @ 7pm Watton v Hingham Yellow and Wymondham v Forncett
Message from Banham we welcome supporters of these four teams and members of other clubs along to this evening as well as the players. They can be quite exciting events and the unexpected sometimes happens.
We may even manage some cups of tea for those attending...
NATIONAL/COUNTY PAIRS 6 players entered the National/County pairs held at Lyng on Sunday 18th December 2011, Chris & Ty Musk,Ollie Allen & Lee Fallows, Sheila Bragg with Sue Hunt from Bob Carter and Russell Hales with Colin Coman from 1st Bus.Chris & Ty and Ollie & Lee made it to the knock out stages, Chris & Ty beat Joe & Shirley Brown 9-4 in the prelim round and then beat fellow club mates Ollie & Lee 6-5 in the last 16. In the 1/4 finals they beat up and coming youngsters Josh Baxter & Jack Barrett 9-4. The semi final was lost to Chris East & Charlie Archer 12-1, the 3/4 play off was against Jenny & Peter Walker which was lost 8-4.All 4 semi finalists should get a place in the Nationals to be held at Bedford next year.
The event was won by Jon Sparham & David Lamb who beat Chris East & Charlie Archer 9-7 after forcing an extra end by scoring a full house of 4 on the last scheduled end.
SHORT MAT Mulbarton SMBC conceded the Norwich City Cup game against our Breckland B team that was due to be played on Tuesday, 6th December 2011
SHORT MAT Connaught 'B' beat Horsford Bowling Club at home in the Norwich Cup on Sunday 2nd October by 72-50 and 15-9
SHORT MAT Lists are on the internal notice boards for names for the various external leagues for the forthcoming season,also for the National/County competitions
IVOR'S FUN DAY - held on Saturday 16 July. A huge success, despite rain calling a halt to the playing proceedings during the afternoon. Vera, to whom many thanks, provided a splendid meal and many club members provided prizes for probably the biggest raffle in the club's history! Most players responded to the fancy dress call and Geoff Randle, as an imposing Indian chief, won first prize in the competition which saw some really bizarre outfits. The spider and raffle proceeds came to about £400 and will go to the Ladies Section. Furthermore, the Bar Manager was a very happy man. It was pleasing to see new members taking part in this unique club day but a little sad to realise that they never knew Ivor
BRENDA YATES PAIRS DAY - held on Sunday 24 July. For various reasons, including other playing commitments and personal commitments, numbers were a little down this year but the club still managed a day-long competition. Alan Marshall and John Mitchell were the winners and each received a cheque for £50 while Mike Parsons and Joan Knox, the runners-up, each received a cheque for £25. Harold again was a very generous sponsor, not only of the prize money but of the afternoon cakes superbly made by Sandra Adcock. Again the club had a good day financially from the raffle and the bar. Thank you again, Harold, and we will always remember Brenda
COLLIERS WOOD TOURISTS - hosted on Monday 25 July for the opening match of their tour. Connaught provided a pre-match buffet for the visitors, which went down very well in every respect. The match of 6 rinks, mixed fours, was played in the usual sporting manner of a touring game. Connaught won but it did not really matter. Like all the London area teams which visit us, Colliers Wood proved ideal tourists - cheerful and outgoing, very supportive of bar and raffle, and determined to enjoy themselves. We hope the weather is kind to them on a tour taking in Caister, Bradwell, Martham, Great Yarmouth, and Thetford on the way home
ASHILL PRESIDENT'S DAY - a rink comprising Jim Ross (lead), John Winup (2 and in charge of them), George Sheridan (3) and Kevin Noble (skip) will represent Connaught at Ashill on Saturday 30 July 2.00pm start
GROUP 3 v NORFOLK PRESIDENTS - Mike Parsons (lead), Ken Ramsbottom (2), John Winup (3) and Bill Adcock (skip) will provide a Connaught rink for Group 3 in the match at Watton on Sunday 31 July 2.00pm start. Kevin Noble will be guesting for the President's team and rumour has it that he will be presented with his county badge (Mike Parsons will be pleased for him!). He should have received it at Cromer on 21 July but inadvertently the landmark was overlooked
REPRESENTATIVE MATCHES - On Monday 18 July Kevin Noble and John Winup guested for the Norfolk Presidents team against Group 4 at Shouldham and John was in the best-winning rink. They got lost on the way home, making a long diversion via RAF Marham. On Thursday 21 July they both played at Cromer in a Norfolk friendly against Nottinghamshire and this time Kevin was in the best-winning rink - Connaught players do add steel to a side! Also on Thursday 21 July Bill Adcock and Mike Parsons trekked down to Southend to play for the Norfolk Vice-Presidents against their Essex counterparts; the match was completed but the Southend weather, unlike Cromer's, was wet and horrible
SID WATSON CHARITY DAY - held on Sunday 19 June. Numbers were a bit down on previous years, with about 33/34 people taking part in the drive but with a fair smattering of spectators. Good to see new members in father and son, Chris and James Haylock, and husband and wife Blair and Tracie Williams all taking part in their first competition (friendly as the competition was!). By all accounts all bowled very well after just four weeks coaching with Geoff and helpers. A good financial result saw £115 made on the raffle, £29 on the spider and £15 on the barbecue. A sum of £150 has been sent to MacMillan Cancer Support. Thank you to everybody who took part and to all those who donated raffle prizes. Thank you to Bill for organising the drive, to Liz and Sylvia for the raffle, to John for the bar and to the Entertainments Committee for much hard work with the barbecue (and thank you to anyone else who helped in any way). Drive winner Steve Hall, runners up George Sheridan and David Warne Booby Mary Cook Spider winner J Winup
NORFOLK v SUFFOLK - the club was delighted to host this friendly match on Thursday 23 June in which 6 Connaught players were selected for Norfolk (Gary Goode, Kevin Noble, Mike Parsons, Geoff Randle, Owen Secker and John Winup). A 7th, Bill Adcock, came on as an unexpected sub after a Norfolk player unfortunately slipped over and injured himself (by all accounts Bill played superbly to help his rink come from behind to win). Norfolk won by 119-106 in a good-natured match but one which certainly had a competitive edge to it (Norfolk v Suffolk in any sport is not to be taken lightly). Heavy rain halted proceedings a bit but the match went to its full length. The club provided a much-appreciated post-match hot meal and Derek Talbot, Norfolk President, made presentations to the Connaught ladies who did the work. Both Derek and his Suffolk opposite number said the green played very well and the club must thank Kevin and Bim in return. In this sort of match the most important thing is for both sides to enjoy themselves. For the host club, exposed to a wider audience, they can be a bit of a worry - have we got things right etc etc. Things seemed to go very well and the sides responded by seeming at home in the club and by supporting both bar and raffle very generously. Connaught, like most clubs, does not charge green fees for county matches but naturally hopes to make a bit of cash from hosting. A major "thank you" to the genial John Godsafe, the Norfolk Match Secretary, who bears many responsibilities on these occasions, from raising a side to sorting out cash and by doing a lot of handholding. Thank you to Sandra Adcock, who did much of the cooking and who has become a major asset to our catering force. Also to Sylvia, Vera, Diana (who also doubled up on raffle) and Rita and Richard for slaving away in the kitchen and for serving the meal so efficiently. Thank you to Heather for a major single-handed effort serving in the bar. And to everyone else who helped
CONNAUGHT MEN v NORFOLK PRESIDENTS - this friendly match takes place on Sunday 25 June, 2.00pm start, 6 rinks, greys and whites. This is another big day for the club, coming only 3 days after the Norfolk v Suffolk match. With holidays etc in full swing, both sides have battled hard to raise 24 players each. Connaught have just managed it and also are lending Richard Harrison and David Wesley to the opposition (Kevin Noble was previously selected to play for the Presidents so that makes 3 players in all! The ladies of the club are poised for another major catering effort and Heather for another bar stint. We just hope that the weather holds good UPDATE The weather indeed held good and another happy and successful day was had by all. The match itself was enjoyable. Although the result was unimportant, for the record Connaught won on 4 of the 6 rinks and by 109-94 on overall shots. The main thing was that all the frantic endeavour to raise sides paid off - 24 apiece and Connaught providing Kevin Noble, Gary Goode (both originally selected), Richard Harrison and David Wesley to the Presidents. It was good to see bowlers such as Malcolm Starbuck, who normally limit themselves to roll-ups, and new member Blair Williams (4 weeks coaching) turning out and playing well. Blair and wife Tracie have settled down well in the club. The pre-match spider raised £55 for Norfolk President Derek Talbot's cardiac support charity at Dereham. Raffle and bar takings were excellent and the post-match meal (centred around succulent chicken pieces bought from club sponsor, Tony Perkins) again was tremendous. Thank you again to substantially the same ladies ( Richard escaped the kitchen to play in the match!) for a huge effort. Alison did the raffle and Diana the spider in a bit of role-swapping. Heather again serviced a very busy bar and was grateful to Phil for several hours solid support
MAY 2011
Tens Presentation night
The 2010/11 presentation night was again jointly held with the Wensum and Bure leagues at Blofield Heathlands in the form of a fish and quiz supper.
Although Connaught had no prizes to collect 6 players went along and had a good evenings entertainment
The question master was once again Bob Oatway who fielded a set of 100 general knowledge questions and 20 clips of music
It was well attended by the various clubs and the team from Connaught won the quiz this year beating the team from Kirby Bedon by 2 points.
Last year Connaught were runners up in the quiz so did better this year albeit without John Winup who could not attend due to his back injury, get well soon John.
FIRSTLY - a quick look back to April and Short Mat. The Short Mat season ended with Connaught 'A' losing in the Norwich Cup Final but once more having had a terrific season. The other sides had middling success, but Connaught 'A' in the Breckland League will always select the club's strongest players. Connaught 'B' always turn out a side and do not do that badly. The Breckland League is the club's main focus and in the Tens and South Norfolk Leagues we tend to field mix and match competitive sides. Turning out four league sides as well as playing a huge amount of internal bowls, competitive and roll-ups, is a testament to the club's current strength. Mat Fees for the season were the highest on record as were the number of matches played
GREEN - opened on 23 April in almost tropical weather with a huge turnout. excellent financial return for club
GREEN - new surrounds put in very efficiently by Kevin of KM Services - a major investment
GREEN - rink markers. The Management Committee took a key decision to ask the green staff to put three markings on each rink (both directions). This practice had lapsed in recent years, so that we were "walking" the same paths every time we played and perhaps creating "runs". By playing from different positions on each rink we will protect the green more
PRACTICE SESSIONS - went very well with good response. 52 people turned up for one Ashill practice
COACHING - for the first time the club has a regular qualified coach in Geoff Randle. Geoff is taking sessions on Saturday mornings, helped by Alan Marshall, Gordon Wilcox and John Winup. Sessions are free. Attendance has been very good, with up to 10 club members and up to 10 members of the public. Nobody is too good to learn and Jim Ross has shown the way by asking Geoff to iron out some faults in technique
ESSEX TOURISTS - hosted on Friday 13 May. For the record Connaught won this 6 rink match but results are not important in this type of match. Green played well. The touring side were very complimentary about the welcome received and both sides certainly enjoyed the splendid post-match meal provided by the Ladies Section. Again heartfelt thanks to all the ladies. Essex very generous in their post-match presentations of gifts - thank you to them. Bar and raffle did well - all in all a tremendous day
SAD NEWS - we all wish Bim, our green liaison officer, a speedy recovery from his recent stroke. Meanwhile Kevin from KM Services is taking on the total burden and is certainly proving his value to us
APRIL 2011
LURCOCK AMD MADDERN win Thurgood Shield! Ken Lurcock and Ron Maddern beat John Winup and Doreen Wood in emphatic victory in Final on Saturday 2 April. This end of season 2-woods/drawn pairs short mat competition had usual good entry and usual quota of surprises. In many years at Connaught Ken Lurcock had never won a competition - you are never too old!
WEDNESDAY 6 APRIL - 7.30pm return leg of Norwich Cup Final v Bob Carter. Connaught 7-17 down and face a tough task. Come and support
WEDNESDAY 7 APRIL - 7.30pm Russell Hales Trophy - annual friendly v Thorpe Marriott
SATURDAY 9 APRIL - QUIZ DRIVE sponsored by Heather and John Winup
SUNDAY 10 APRIL - BAR OPEN 12.00-2.00. LURCOCK in charge
MONDAY 11 APRIL - 6.30pm CLUB FINAL SHORT MAT TRIPLES
TUESDAY 12 APRIL - 6.30pm CLUB FINAL SHORT MAT FOURS
WEDNESDAY 13 APRIL - 6.30pm CLUB FINAL SHORT MAT PAIRS
THURSDAY 14 APRIL - 6.30pm CLUB FINAL SHORT MAT SINGLES (Bill Adcock v Ty Musk)
SATURDAY 16 APRIL - 10.00am SPRING FAIR
SUNDAY 17 APRIL to TUESDAY 19 APRIL - CLUB CLOSED FOR CLEANING BUT BAR STILL OPEN SUNDAY 12.00- 2.00
WEDNESDAY 20 APRIL - from 7.00pm MEET GEOFF RANDLE NEW CLUB COACH (OUTDOORS) - BOWLS CHAT AND SOCIAL
SATURDAY 23 APRIL - GREEN OPENS - DRIVE 2.00
SUNDAY 24 APRIL - BAR OPEN 12.00-2.00. LURCOCK in charge
MONDAY 25 APRIL - 6.30 pm ROLL UP
TUESDAY 26 APRIL -
2.00pm ROLL UP
- 6.30pm ASHILL PRACTICE
- 8.15pm PRE-SEASON MEETING
WEDNESDAY 27 APRIL - 6.30pm EBA PRACTICE A and B
THURSDAY 28 APRIL - 2.00pm ROLL UP
FRIDAY 29 APRIL - 6.30pm EBA PRACTICE A and B
SATURDAY 30 APRIL - 10.00-12.00 COACHING (GEOFF RANDLE and HELPERS)
FEBRUARY 2011
SAD NEWS - John Laker has died after a quickly deteriorating illness. The Club extends its deep sympathy to Pam and John's family. John and Pam joined Connaught a few years back and quickly settled down as sociable club members. John, an ex-policeman from Kent and colleague of Ivor Moore, became one of our roll-up organisers but illness restricted his bowling recently. The funeral will be at Earlham Crematorium on Tuesday 22 February at 10.30am followed by a gathering at the Park Farm Hotel, Hethersett. Family flowers only but donations to the Priscilla Bacon Lodge Support Group can be made through the funeral director, Bartrams of Attleborough
UPDATE - many club members attended the funeral. There were moving tributes from John's daughter and son-in-law and the service was fittingly traditional as shown by the hymns "Jerusalem", "I Vow To Thee, My Country" and "Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer"
DIARY DATE - SATURDAY 9 APRIL QUIZ DRIVE & BUFFET. 7.00 for 7.30pm. The quiz will be about 4 rounds each of 10 questions and will take the form of a drive - you keep your card and score and move to a different table for each round. Prizes for winner, runner-up and booby. A buffet will be supplied (not the Cheese & Wine first advertised). Charge £3 per head. This is Heather & John Winup's annual sponsored social evening; they take no expenses and every £3 charge will go to the club. Give them your support; this will be their final evening as they are calling a halt after 10 years.
Time has been allowed for Derek Liles, Club Chairman, and others to talk about what will be a very busy outdoor season, even by Connaught standards
SATURDAY 19 FEB 7.30PM ONWARDS - NEW COLOURED POLO SHIRTS! ORDERING AND FITTING EVENING. Bring one of your existing shirts/blouses with you - the supplier will take your measurements from that. Also see notices at club. Good quality clothing - final prices subject to eg quantity discounts etc. BAR SNACKS ALSO AVAILABLE AT NO CHARGE
JANUARY 2011
BOB OATWAY - best wishes to Bob who goes into hospital today (19 Jan) for his second knee replacement operation. Bob had recovered well from his first and spent 17 and 18 Jan, his last days of freedom for a bit, helping Connaught 'A' to victory in the Breckland League and the County Cup
DIARY DATES - remember Barn Dance on 5 Feb, list on noticeboard. Heather & John Winup's sponsored Social Evening will take place on Saturday 9 April - it will comprise a short "Quiz Drive" followed by a Cheese & Wine. The Chairman, Derek Liles, and other dignitaries of the Club will take the opportunity to speak briefly to those present about what is in store for the outdoor season and to field questions
SUBSCRIPTION NIGHT - see below. A tremendous turnout - thank you to the Management Committee for the buffet. Good raffle (£103.50) and one of our very good bar takes. Just over £2,000 in subs taken on the night + £625 for the 100 Club. Also considerable sums were taken in the preceding week. So far 130 of last year's 155 members have rejoined and most of the rest are certain to do so. Also 3 new members - see next item
NEW MEMBERS - a warm welcome to Giuseppe (Joe) Li-Rocchi and his wife Carolina, who live in Hethersett and are keen short mat bowlers. They played at Woodbastwick for several years and more recently at Wymondham Short Mat since moving to this area. They have also played "outside" and will do so at Connaught. The Treasurer has threatened to practise his Italian on them - his Italian is much worse than their good English and we hope they will not be put off! Also a warm welcome to Geoffrey (Geoff) Randle, who lives in Attleborough and who has resumed indoor bowling at the Dell after recent illness. He will play at Connaught during the summer. Geoff is very well-known "on the circuit", having played at Shotford, Wortwell, Diss, Norfolk BC and Wymondham Dell. Importantly for us he is a qualified coach, Grade II, and will take charge of the outdoor coaching in the summer - not just for newcomers, because we hope that all players (particularly including team players) are not too proud to learn
BAR - we have decided to absorb the VAT increase and to keep prices as they are for as long as possible. Much will depend on buying in at good offer prices - the Bar Manager used pre-Christmas offers to do some restocking. We have a new wholesale supplier for soft drinks, C J Canham from Norwich, who has given us better prices on the popular Breckland Orchard range, delivers to the premises and has a wide choice of stock (Tony Perkins, one of our sponsors, recommended Canham to us). We are introducing one of their ranges called "Juiceburst" - 500ml plastic (recyclable) bottles at £1.20. So far we are selling "Tropical" and "Apple" and will provide other choices as the more "syrupy" J2Os are phased out
CONGRATULATIONS - Russell Hales, 80 on 12 January and celebrating with ten-pin bowling in the morning, lunch at mid-day and brandy in the evening. Wisely he decided just to watch the Watton match in the evening!
SUBSCRIPTION NIGHT - SATURDAY 15 JANUARY 7.00pm for 7.30pm. Buffet provided. You have all been telephoned. Renew your club subscriptions and your 100 club subscriptions. John Winup and Alison Rush will be waiting for you! Club subscriptions have not changed and therefore remain £35 full member, £30 senior citizen, £12.50 junior, £10 social. 100 club is what Alison says you owe!
DIARY DATES - Saturday 5 February BARN DANCE - see noticeboard. Saturday 19 February - Heather and John Winup's sponsored Social Evening - details will soon be on noticeboard
With Tens captain Bob Oatway having knee replacement surgery Mike Parsons takes over the Tens team for the rest of the season
In the Short mat County/National qualifier singles held at Lyng on Sunday 2nd January the only entrant from the club, John Winup, did well in the round robin stages only losing 1 game to Jason Woods from Bob Carter. John came 2nd in the group with 4 points + 10 shots while Jason had 4 points + 14 shots.which put them both into the last 16. Unfortunately for John the draw was not kind as he was drawn against Jason and lost 13-4 which co-incidentley was the same score as in the round robin game.
The winner of the event was Neil Davidson from Hempnall who beat Jason Woods 9-3.
DECEMBER 2010
NEW YEARS EVE PARTY
30 + members enjoyed an evening of fun, games and dancing and toasted the new year with a drink very kindly bought by Russell Hales.
A very good time was had by all.
Many thanks to John and Heather Winup for doing the bar and to Sheila Bragg for organising the various party games and to Elaine Oatway for the raffle which raised a small amount for club funds after expenses. Bob Oatway was the mc for the evening and sorted the music.
Very many thanks for the people who cleared away afterwards and laid the mats down.
NEW YEAR'S EVE - FRIDAY 31 DECEMBER 7.00pm for 7.30pm.
List still on noticeboard but you can email if you wish to come. Bring a small plate of food
CHRISTMAS DAY - Bar will be open from 12.00 - 2.00 for lunchtime drinks. Derek Liles, Club Chairman, will be presiding
CHRISTMAS DRAW - 150 prizes won by club members at the draw held on Saturday evening 11 December; also a very pleasant social gathering. Good financial result for club. Squares sold = £400.75 + Gift Aid donations of £40.00 = Total Takings of £440.75. Cost of Prizes + Other expenses = £205.96. Surplus for Club = £234.79. Many thanks to Elaine and Bob Oatway for organising and to all their helpers. Thank you also to all those members who donated prizes
100 CLUB PRIZE DRAW - held in the Bar Sunday lunchtime 19 December.
£50 George Sheridan, £25 Jessie Newson, £15 David Wesley, £10 John Mitchell. Thank you to Alison for all her hard work. Thank you also to Ken for serving at the Bar (under John's watchful eye and Ollie's withering commentary!) and to Heather and John for organising/preparing the seasonal hot snacks. Despite the frozen pipes (see next item) everyone stayed on and the bar manager was a happy man
FROZEN PIPE SCARE - the lunchtime gathering on 19 December also saw a scurry of activity after John W realised that the hot water taps were not working. Alan Sparrow and Bill Adcock, always the first port of call in these emergencies, came round immediately and started work in the roof area. Gentle thawing did the trick but as a precaution the mats were taken up and play cancelled for the week. Thank you to Alan and Bill and to all those who rallied round.
UPDATE - Derek Liles has kept an eye on things - nothing seems to have burst - and has engaged Kevin Manning (KM Services) to install extra lagging and insulation
In the County/National qualifier triples held at Lyng on Sunday 19th December Rita Secker, Owen Secker and Tyrone Musk came 4th.
In the preliminary round they beat a Triple Skipped by G.Clarke then in the 1/4 finals they beat a Bob Carter triple skipped by R.Howlett then found themselves up against a Wymondham triple skipped by C.Mann in the semi final but ould not repeat the form they showed in the earlier stages and so it was to the 3rd/4th place play off where they lost by 2 shots to a triple skipped by M.Boswell.
The winners were Jean Woods, Malcolm Reynolds and Kim Bridge.
In the Short mat County/ National qualifier mixed fours held at Lyng on Sunday 5th December Christine Musk, Russell Hales,Tyrone Musk and Shiela Bragg came third beating Sue Hunt, Kim Bridge, Jason Woods and Melly Woods.
In the 1/4 final they beat Pat Saunders, Mark Linsdell, Debbie Phillips and Brian Saunders from Wymondham.
The Semi final was lost to Leslie Chadwick, Shiela Johnstone, Les Chadwick and David Dewing from Sprowston.
The winners were Jean Woods, Jenny Walker, Jon Sparham and David Lamb who had also won last year.
At the Christmas meal on 4th December 62 members enjoyed a buffet style meal of cold meats, salad and hot potatoes, followed by dessert and coffee.
The entertainment was provided by Debbie Lister who sang, played the keyboard and got people singing and dancing.
Thanks to all who helped in preparing the room and to Vera for the table decorations and Kevin for doing the bar and to all those who helped in clearing up afterwards.
NOVEMBER 2010
55 Members and guests attended the quiz "n" chips and presentation evening on the 20th organised by the entertainment committee and questions set by Bob Oatway.
Prizes were awarded to the winners and runners up (which was decided on a tie break as they both finished on 148 points),and also to the table round winners and runners up. Booby prizes were awarded to the last place.
The food arrived promptly at the time requested and was enjoyed by all.
Thanks to all who attended and to John and Heather for the bar and to all those who assisted in setting up the tables etc. and for clearing the tables and chairs away and putting the mats down and to Elaine for assisting Bob in marking etc.
OCTOBER 2010
The Halloween party was attended by 32 members some of whom dressed up in various costumes the prizes were awarded to Mike Parsons and Pauline Groom as judged by Heather and John Winup .
A table top quiz on Halloween tested their knowledge and prizes given to the winners. Some games were played, hoopla being one, which was won by Sylvia Parsons with Kevin Noble second, and fun had. Food was on a bring a plate basis and a good selection was supplied.
Upon paying the entry fee of £1 they were given free raffle tickets with an option to buy more, which raised a small amount for club funds.
Thanks to John and Heather for manning the bar.
Thanks to all who attended and to all who assisted in decorating the club and to all those who helped cleaning up afterwards.
AUGUST 2010
NORFOLK v MIDDLESEX - Tuesday 31 August, 2.oopm start. We are delighted to be hosting this men's county friendly match and look forward to a successful day for everybody (hoping for a Norfolk victory!). Let's have a good turnout from club members
FRIENDLY v EAST HARLING - we entertain old friends on Wednesday 18 August. 5 rinks of mixed triples, 2.30pm start. Spectators welcome
CONGRATULATIONS to Vicky and Lee Fallows on the Birth of their Daughter at 7:56pm on Tuesday 17th August. Evelyn Grace 6 lbs-5 ounces
BUCKINGHAM CUP - held on Sunday 15 August. Sponsored this year by Club. 48 players and quite a few spectators. Very successful. Good drive, well-organised by Bill as usual. Excellent raffle (£102) and good bar take. Winners received wine and runners-up received chocolates and teabags! Thank you to all who helped
NEW CHANGING ACCOMODATION installed and in use! Roy West's generous legacy has borne fruit in the new purpose-built portakabin and in the new electrical work for both the new and existing units. The existing unit will be further upgraded in the near future with bench seating. Thelma West will formally open the new building in Roy's memory during an Invitation Shield weekend
A résumé of the Nowak Trophy competition held at Connaught on Sunday 11 July. Won by Connaught (16 points), followed by Bradenham (14 points), Mundford (10 points) and Watton (8 points). Tremendous day of mixed triples competition with the home side's depth just prevailing. Most importantly the Nowak is run for a charity chosen by the host club: Connaught chose the East Anglian Air Ambulance who received a cheque for £255. Thank you to all the players and spectators
Group 3 v Norfolk President's Invitation Team - 6 rinks match hosted by Connaught on Sunday afternoon 1 August. Good bowling (President's team won by a couple of shots), good company and fine post-match meal (thank you Sylvia, Vera and ladies). Successful raffle (thank you, Diana) and great bar take (thank you, Heather, for 6 hours non-stop). On a busy day for the county, with matches elsewhere, Connaught helped out with players. One four played for Group 3 and another for the President's; Jim Ross and Derek Liles were drafted in for Group 3 after scratchings and Ken Lurcock appeared for the President's on 20 minutes notice. Russell Hales also played for the President's team as an original selection and that made 12 Connaught players out of the 48. The club does not often host a match of this type and status and naturally was keen to put on a good show. We think we did this. Although a bit heavy the green played very well and our general facilities probably surprised a few visitors. In his speech Brian Howes, EBA President, commented that he had played bowls in Norfolk since 1962 but had never been to Connaught before - what he had seen showed him the merits of exploring the county!
Invitation Shield - featuring Ashill, Bradenham, Connaught and Diss. Mixed Fours - first round matches Saturday 7 August, 2.30pm start. Finals Saturday 21 August 2.30pm. Sponsored by Marjorie and Vernon Plumpton and by Thelma West. Remember that Thelma will open in Roy's memory the new changing accommodation UPDATE - Connaught will play Bradenham in final and Ashill will play Diss for 3rd/4th places - see match reports
New changing accommodation installed and in use! Roy West's generous legacy has borne fruit in the new purpose-built portakabin and in the new electrical work for both the new and existing units. The existing unit will be further upgraded in the near future with bench seating. Thelma West will formally open the new building in Roy's memory during an Invitation Shield weekend
A résumé of the Nowak Trophy competition held at Connaught on Sunday 11 July. Won by Connaught (16 points), followed by Bradenham (14 points), Mundford (10 points) and Watton (8 points). Tremendous day of mixed triples competition with the home side's depth just prevailing. Most importantly the Nowak is run for a charity chosen by the host club: Connaught chose the East Anglian Air Ambulance who received a cheque for £255. Thank you to all the players and spectators
Group 3 v Norfolk President's Invitation Team - 6 rinks match hosted by Connaught on Sunday afternoon 1 August. Good bowling (President's team won by a couple of shots), good company and fine post-match meal (thank you Sylvia, Vera and ladies). Successful raffle (thank you, Diana) and great bar take (thank you, Heather, for 6 hours non-stop). On a busy day for the county, with matches elsewhere, Connaught helped out with players. One four played for Group 3 and another for the President's; Jim Ross and Derek Liles were drafted in for Group 3 after scratchings and Ken Lurcock appeared for the President's on 20 minutes notice. Russell Hales also played for the President's team as an original selection and that made 12 Connaught players out of the 48. The club does not often host a match of this type and status and naturally was keen to put on a good show. We think we did this. Although a bit heavy the green played very well and our general facilities probably surprised a few visitors. In his speech Brian Howes, EBA President, commented that he had played bowls in Norfolk since 1962 but had never been to Connaught before - what he had seen showed him the merits of exploring the county!
Invitation Shield - featuring Ashill, Bradenham, Connaught and Diss. Mixed Fours - first round matches Saturday 7 August, 2.30pm start. Finals Saturday 21 August 2.30pm. Sponsored by Marjorie and Vernon Plumpton and by Thelma West. Remember that Thelma will open in Roy's memory the new changing accommodation
JULY 2010
SHORT MAT -Notice on boards inside clubhouse asking for names for the various external leagues
Buckingham Cup 15 August all day event entry form on Noticeboard
JUNE 2010
MEMBERSHIP - we have had a flurry of new members. Total now 150. Leaflet round the town and public coaching sessions mainly responsible
COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS - Ollie Allen and Jim Ross had a good run in the men's pairs before losing by 6 shots at Diss in the 4th round. Ollie Allen, Jim Ross, Mike Parsons and John Winup reached the quarter-finals of the men's fours, but lost 11-20 at Wymondham Dell after a hard struggle against a good Acle four
SID WATSON CHARITY DAY - held on 26 June and run this year by club with support and attendance from the family. Sheila presented the prizes. In the blazing heat playing numbers were a bit down but overall attendance was very good. Proceeds of spider and raffle, £155, have been sent to Quidenham Hospice. The many raffle prizes were donated. Barbecue very successful (thank you to Entertainments Committee) and bar did very well. Thank you to Bill for organising the drive
TOURIST FIXTURE - Wednesday 16 June against Borough of Croydon, 3 men's rinks and 3 women's rinks. In good weather another light-hearted encounter saw the home side win. The visitors enjoyed themselves and spoke well of the club; a good day financially
Connaught Bowls Club, Attleborough, had a good week in knock-out competitions but the men’s EBA ‘A’ side lost their league match.
In the Bales Cup Connaught had a solid win by 69-31 at Wortwell to reach the third round. J Ross 23-7, P Castle 25-13, W Adcock 21-11.
However, in South 1 of the county league, the men’s ‘A’ side lost 50-72 and 1-4 at Dickleborough. J Ross 11-31, W Adcock 19-26, P Castle 20-15.
In the Breckland League Connaught Ladies won a local derby against Wymondham Dell by 77-39 and 6-2. A Rush 12-22, S Parsons 27-9, S Bragg 38-8.
In the Ashill Mixed Triples League a weakened Connaught ‘B’ lost a derby clash against Connaught ‘D’ by 45-56 and 1-7. Dramatic last end wins in two matches gave the ‘D’ side 3 points in a match heading for a 4-4 draw.
Men’s teams secured two good wins in the county championships. A four of Ollie Allen (skip), Jim Ross (lead), Mike Parsons (2) and John Winup (3) beat a Hingham four 23-13 in a group play-off to enter the quarter-final. Ollie Allen (skip) and Jim Ross (lead) won a third round pairs match at Gissing, beating R Cornwall and C Gaul by 19-14.Return to Top
MAY 2010
SPRING FAIR - tremendous result on 8 May. £772 (including £100 from Chris Ross's cards) wsas made. Good attendance from members and public; hopefully leaflet distribution helped. Enquiries about membership and one or two recruits for coaching
VERA MOORE - Vera has been elected Junior Vice-President of the county EWBA for 2010/2011. The following year she becomes Senior Vice-President and the year after President. This is a great honour for Vera and for the club. However, in our traditionally irreverent manner, we already are calling her "Junior Vice" in preparation for "Senior Vice" the year after.
TY MUSK - men's Top Club at Hingham. Connaught 1 short and on point of forfeiting match. Ty is telephoned (he lives in Hingham) and dashes across to play in the Two-Wood singles. Christine is ready to serve a roast dinner but agrees that the club must come first. Ty loses but plays extremely well. Many thanks to him for his tremendous club spirit. See match report
TOURIST FIXTURE - UPDATE visitors proved very sociable, as evidenced by tremendous bar takings and an excellent raffle! The match itself was competitive, albeit not too serious, with Connaught winning on overall shots. The visitors won 3 and drew 1 of the 6 matches but Kevin Noble and Derek Liles skipped good winning rinks. Visitors much impressed with club and facilities. We undersell ouselves
APRIL 2010
A PRE-SEASON MEETING was held on 29 April and attended by 32 people. Aimed at airing any problems etc the meeting proved non-contentious and essentially a good social gathering. Ken Lurcock got back from a Town Council/Police meeting where the recent vandalism was discussed - CCTV is likely to be installed but only for temporary periods.
TOURIST FIXTURE - Thursday 6 May against Halls from Dartford, Kent. 6 rinks mixed. Come and support.
GREEN OPENS - Saturday 24th April with a drive at 2.00pm. Report at 1.30. English teas served on St George's Day (or the day after!) UPDATE - a tremendous day and terrific turnout. 70 players and quite a few spectators and visitors - body count of about 100. £102 in green fees less £33 in drive prizes (Hazel Banks yet again in the money with first prize!). £65 on spider won by Moira Eades (whose Scots eyes lit up at the sight of that whisky!). Huge raffle bringing in £138 and a tremendous bar take. Treasurer/Bar Manager is salivating. There were cakes in profusion enjoyed by all. Thank you to Ken Lurcock for donating the whisky, thank you to Bill Adcock for organising, to Philomena on the bar and to everybody who helped in any way whatsoever
NEW PAVING - non-slip paving has been laid in front of the pavilion. Huge improvement.
PORTAKABINS PAINTED - Kevin Noble and Gary Goode have painted all the portable buildings which look very smart for the new season.
NATIONALS
Connaughts young stars Ollie Allen and Lee Fallows represented the club and Norfolk at the Nationals held at Kempston (Bedfordshire) on 8th April.
Ollie made it through the round robin stage winning all his games and coming first in his group but lost to the eventual winner (Lee Toleman from Devon) in the 2nd round.
Lee also made it through the round robin stage winning 2 games and coming runner up and beat his opponent in the 2nd round but lost in the 3rd round, a valiant effort by both players.
In the pairs held on the 9th April Ollie was a substitute for Paul Baker and with Neil Davidson they were 2nd in their group but lost to a Warwickshire pair in the 2nd round.
Details can be found on the ESMBA web site
MARCH 2010
SHORT MAT AGM
The AGM of the short mat section will take place on Saturday 12th June at 7:30pm followed by a social evening please bring a small plate of food.
Notice of the AGM and proposals for officers and items for the agenda are displayed on the notice board.
BRECKLAND PRESENTATION NIGHT
The Breckland presentation night will be held at the Wells Cole Community Centre, Bell Lane, Saham Toney,7.00 for 7.30,finishing at 11.00. Entertainment will be provided by the talented PAUL YOUNG as it was last year.
Cost will be £9 per person please put names on the list on the board in the clubhouse or contact Bob Oatway.
SPRING FAIR
The Ladies are organising a spring fair to be held on the 8th May 2010, at the club, starting at 10am any items of use please place in the box provided in the clubhouse.
TENS PRESENTATION NIGHT
This years presentation night will be held in conjunction with the Bure and Wensum leagues at Heathlands Blofield Heath on Saturday 15th May 2010 and will consist of a Fish and quiz evening for details please see notice on the board in the clubhouse or contact Bob Oatway.
BARN DANCE
40 people had a good evenings entertainment with dancing and the ploughmans supper thanks to Pauline,Elaine Sheila and Margaret for plating up, Gary for the shopping Ralf for getting the hall ready and to Phil for manning the bar. As stated before this was rearranged from the 9 Jan and nearly had to be called off again due to Dave Cork phoning in sick only a couple of days before, but at the last minute Fred Bragg came to the rescue and although he usually calls with a live band he agreed to "give it a go" with recorded music and did a fantastic job, a raffle was well supported enabling us to show a small profit for the club.
ROYAL ANGLIAN REGIMENT BENEVOLENT FUND - Derek has given his agreement to a collection box on the bar counter. This is linked to a Wolf Brewery promotion. Wolf have upgraded their Wolf Ale from 3.9% to 4.0% and are selling it as "Heroes Bitter". The price to us and other customers remains the same. For every pint they sell Wolf give 10p to the Anglians' Benevolent Fund. We have bought some minicasks of the new bitter and are also taking the collection box. The Royal Anglians have had two torrid tours in Afghanistan. They are our local regiment - please support them
SATURDAY EVENING 20 MARCH - BARN DANCE (with a bit of an Irish flavour!). A revamp of the function cancelled on 9 Jan on account of bad weather. Our usual caller, Dave Cork, will be presiding. Price £3 per head includes Ploughman's. See noticboard list or contact Entertainments Secretary, Margaret Goode, on 01953 451713
THURGOOD SHIELD - runs from Thursday 1st April until Friday 9th April. 46 players have entered this popular end of season drawn pairs, two woods.
BRECKLAND LEAGUE FIVE PAIRS FINAL - Connaught 'A' meet Wymondham at Watton on Friday 12 March at Watton
FEBRUARY 2010
DON'T FORGET - Saturday 20th February - CONNAUGHT REST HOME FOR THE AGED AND INFIRM (A SOCIAL EVENING). 43 inmates, sorry residents, are coming so far. £3.00 per head, all proceeds to club, list on noticeboard or use "contact us" on the website.
UPDATE 48 residents attended and with a couple of donations exactly £150 was raised for club funds. In addition we had a very good night on the bar. 48 bright and intelligent people played their parts to perfection and happily accepted lollipops on their way in, engaged in bingo for prizes such as WindSetlers, took their pills during the evening (these looked a bit like Smarties) and did gentle exercises from a sitting position. An old-fashioned spread was much enjoyed and everyone joined in the community singing led by the foursome of Stan, Pauline, Marianne and John. As a foretaste of what awaits us all it was not that bad!
JOHN WINUP had a losing argument with black ice and a concrete gate post in Besthorpe Road on his way to (of all things!) a Management Committee Meeting on 6 February. The car probably is a total write-off but after a hospital check he is OK. As a result he missed playing for Connaught 'B' against Connaught 'A' in the league match that evening. Some compensation was watching England beat Wales at Twickenham
PRESS AND WEBSITE REPORTS - the bad flooding at the home of Heather and John Winup, resulting in John being offline for a long time, played havoc with press and website reporting. Bill Adcock cannot do everything and in the absence of volunteers our system went awry. Food for thought and succession planning! Things are now back to normal
BAR - Sunday opening 12.00 to 2.00 continues to be encouraging without being overwhelming. A steady clientele is being built up and is not reliant on the usual suspects. But we must move on from just 20-30 people, whether on Sundays or at other times, being prepared to buy a drink. The balance of the 150+ membership still takes advantage of bar profits without contributing to them (alcohol and drink driving is not the issue, because we sell a wide variety of soft drinks). Our main supplier, Adnams, now insists 0n minimum beer deliveries (and in plastic containers to boot) which make life difficult for smaller outlets. On an economy of scale basis, fair enough, but the future is pointing to wholesalers and small, local brewers January 2010
SNOW - affected everything, matches and bar takings, and very disappointingly the Barn Dance on 9 January which had to be cancelled but which will be re-arranged
BACK TO BOWLS - many congratulations to Lee Fallows and young Ollie Allen who qualified through the County Championships to represent Norfolk in the National Finals. They will be joined by Chris Mann (Wymondham) and John Turner (Yaxham) in an all-Breckland League grouping. Connaught's Tens League side started 2010 well with a good win at home to Coltishall. However, Connaught 'B' crashed heavily at Carleton Rode in the Breckland League Click here for full report
SUBSCRIPTION NIGHT - Saturday 23 January from 7.00pm onwards - full details on recent Newsletter. The Management committee will be supplying light refreshments
SOCIAL FUNCTION (1) - Heather and John Winup sponsor their annual evening on Saturday 20 February - also see Newsletter. Posters will be up after 23 January. The cost will be £3 per head and all takings go to club funds - no expenses will be taken out. The theme is "A Social Evening for Residents" at the "Connaught Rest Home for the Aged and Infirm". Bill Adcock's advertising in the Newsletter was so realistic that Pauline Cattermole genuinely thought there was such a Rest Home and that we were all going there as a treat for the residents! Pauline, after the actual evening you will never wish to go near a retirement home! Let's hope you have a choice!
SOCIAL FUNCTION (2) - The Social Committee will be hosting an Irish Evening on 20 March. The theme here is obvious enough but details will be advertised shortly
BAR - Sunday opening 12.00 to 2.00 went well in December. The bad weather interfered with plans in the first half of January, but the Sunday opening recommenced with a good turn-out on the 17th. Light snacks (nuts, crisps etc) were provided on the house and Bill Adcock did the draw for the short mat Thursday/Friday Spring League. Wolf beer from Attleborough as well as Adnams beer is now available. With both brewers we are getting genuine cask-conditioned beer but in containers which cannot be piped in and which sit on the bar counter. Wolf supply soft drinks from Broadland Orchard and as a novelty these went well, the cloudy lemonade selling out in two days. The Sunday opening will continue as long as the present nucleus support us and hopefully as more members give it a go
OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2009
SAD NEWS - Christiana (Chris) Taylor has died after recent serious illness. Wife of Gordon, also no longer with us, and within the club the mother of Mary Fallows and grandmother of Lee Fallows, Chris was a former Ladies' Chairman and also a very talented player at both versions of the game. She skipped for years both in the short mat teams and in the Ladies' team outdoors. The club extends its deep sympathy to all of Chris's family and friends. A minute's silence was held on Friday evening between the early and late sessions of our internal short mat league. We will publish details of the funeral arrangements when they are known.
UPDATE - the funeral will take place at St Faith's Crematorium on Friday 30 October 1.15pm. There will be a gathering afterwards at the club from approximately 3.00pm. Donations in Chris's memory will be for "Breast Cancer Care" and can be made through Rosedale Funeral Home, Attleborough
CONNAUGHT WIN KEITH BANKS MEMORIAL TRIPLES - congratulations to Bill Adcock, Gordon Wilcox and Mike Parsons on a great win at Hingham on Sunday 18 October - Click here to see match report
BOB OATWAY'S QUIZ NIGHT - many thanks to Elaine and Bob for organising such an enjoyable evening on Saturday 17 October. 80 questions + 20 music intros + a 50 question table top quiz presented some challenge and we were all ready for the sumptuous "bring a plate" supper. The quiz was won by the Carleton Rode exiles side of Alison Rush, Pauline Cattermole and Heather and John Winup. Margaret, Gary and Kevin came second by dint of their music recognition skills!
CHRISTMAS DRAW - thanks again to Elaine and Bob Oatway who have volunteered to organise this year's Draw. 500 squares (25p each) are on the bar noticeboard for starters and everything was kickstarted at the quiz on 17 October when those present were very generous. Elaine and Bob are starting something new this year "Sponsor A Draw Prize". If, say, 40 members each make a Gift Aid donation of £5 that produces a total of £200 which Elaine and Bob will use to buy prizes. The Club then will secure a tax refund of £56 on the donations. They will still be using the box system by which members can give actual prizes. The date of the Draw, which will be a lunchtime Sunday in December, will be made known soon
DIARY DATES -
AGM FRIDAY 20 NOVEMBER 7.30PM
- PRESENTATION NIGHT (OUTDOOR SEASON) AND LIGHT BUFFET SATURDAY 28 NOVEMBER 7.00PM FOR 7.30PM
CHRISTMAS DINNER SATURDAY 5 DECEMBER 7.00PM FOR 7.30PM: TICKETS £12.00 - SEE LIST ON NOTICEBOARD
SATURDAY 9 JANUARY 2010 BARN DANCE - DETAILS TO BE POSTED ON NOTICEBOARD
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September 2009
SAD NEWS - with great regret the C lub reports the recent death of Doris Buckingham. There will be a private funeral. A memorial service will take place at St Mary's C hurch, Attleborough, on Tuesday 29 September 3.00pm followed by refreshments at the Connaught Bowls Club. Club colours may be worn at the memorial service at the discretion of individuals.
Doris had been ill for some time but that in no way lessens the shock and sadness felt by everybody at the club. Doris was one of those stalwart and kindhearted members on which clubs of all types depend. She was a Life Member and had held various offices.
With Buck, also no longer with us, she had sponsored the Buckingham Cup for many years, a popular function during the outdoor season. Many of us will remember particularly her long spell of duty for the Benevolent Fund. Everybody who had been ill in hospital received a call or a visit and a gift and Doris, a woman of strong Christian belief, conveyed warmth and sympathy to us all.
Donations in Doris's memory may be made to Rosedale Funeral Home, The Yard, High street, Attleborough, NR17 2EH. Donations will be shared between St Mary's Church, The Uganda Support Fund and Cancer Research UK.
CLUB FINALS - took place on 5, 6 and 12 September. Congratulations to Ray Wells and Sylvia Parsons on retaining their singles titles. For all results and reports see outdoor results pages
BENEVOLENT DAY - a rather cold but dry day on Sunday 13 September brought the outdoor season to its traditional close. Numbers were a bit down on previous years - probably the weather- but 30 players took part in the drive and quite a few spectators turned up (several of whom could have played but at least they bought raffle tickets!). Including green fees a sum of about £160 was raised
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August 2009
IVOR'S FUN DAY - organised by Vera in Ivor's memory, the Fun Day on 29 August was a tremendously enjoyable occasion and brought back so many memories. A huge thank you to Vera for the food and for the presentation mugs and thank you also to everybody who helped. The turnout in fancy dress was nothing less than inspired - see pictures. Including green fees a total of £400 was raised on the day. The Benevolent Fund will be boosted by the contribution from Fun Day
FRIENDLY V HARLING - Connaught took five mixed triples to old friends, Harling Rec, on Wednesday 19 August, for what we are making an annual fixture. Connaught won all the matches, by an aggregate score of 114-56, but results are not important in these matches. Connaught were helped out by use of Harling facilities in the early days and owe much to the village club.
INVITATION SHIELD - Connaught WIN FINAL and £150 prize money (ALL PUT IN GENERAL CLUB FUNDS). See match reports
GREENKEEPING - GREENKEEPING - some members will know that Bim, who has done so well in looking after the green, has decided to give up the duties from end September. Some club members have been canvassed but with no interest being shown at present. A notice is being posted in the clubhouse to see if anybody or any group of people will come forward. At the same time the club will be advertising in the local press.
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JUNE AND JULY 2009
BRENDA YATES MEMORIAL PAIRS DAY took place on Sunday 26 July. 40 players took part and many spectators attended. Each pair had 4 x 6-end matches in the group stage and Alan Marshall & Joyce Hazell played Kevin Noble & Brenda Cox in the final. Alan and Joyce won, receiving £50 each, while Kevin and Brenda won £25 each. A big raffle with mainly donated prizes raised £100 for club funds. Harold provided a huge supply of cakes for afternoon tea. During the day we exchanged our memories of Brenda, former Ladies' President and with Harold one of the band of helpers and organisers during the early days of the club. The club's thanks are due to Harold for his very generous sponsorship and to Bill Adcock and many others who ensured the day ran smoothly.
GREENKEEPING - some members will know that Bim, who has done so well in looking after the green, has decided to give up the duties from end September. Some club members have been canvassed but with no interest being shown at present. A notice is being posted in the clubhouse to see if anybody or any group of people will come forward. At the same time the club will be advertising in the local press.
CHAIRMAN RESCUES CONNAUGHT 'B' - Alan Sparrow arrives on foot at the club at 6.10pm on Tuesday 28 July to play for Connaught 'B' against Ashill 'A'. Unfortunately the match is at Ashill! A hurried phone call by Alan to Ken Lurcock, travelling with the team but not playing, saves the day. Ken had his woods and shoes but had to play in civvies; he skipped and drew his match against Ashill's strongest triple. Well done. Our chairman of course was suffering from his usual range of ailments (some people think swine flu' must be amongst them!) and his fortitude was especially praiseworthy.
HEATHER WINUP'S MUDDLE - Ashill Mixed Triples League at home on Tuesday 28 July. Connaught 'A' v Watton 'A' and Connaught 'D' v Bradenham 'B'. Heather, captain of Connaught 'A', exchanges cards with the opposing captain but unfortunately with the captain of Bradenham 'B'. Nobody is quite sure what Connaught 'D' and Watton 'A' exchanged. Gary Goode, captain of Connaught 'D', certainly would not have had a clue. The ensuing muddle was hilarious to behold as four teams converged on the same rinks in total bewilderment. Fortunately some bright soul spotted that something was wrong.
GARY GOODE'S BOY, OLLIE - Ollie Allen continues to charm women of a certain age. During the Connaught 'D' v Bradenham match (it did start and finish) a Bradenham lady turned round and said "What a nice young man - he must be the son of your captain. They are so alike". If ever Ollie's mother had the misfortune to see Gary Goode she would have a fit.
KEVIN STILL TO MAKE HIS MOVE - Kevin Noble yearns silently for a lady player in another club. Discretion does not allow us to name the club or the lady in question. He has played against her at least eleven times in the past two seasons but the admiration remains at a distance. She has no commitments and the path is clear, but despite encouragement from all his teammates the promised move has not taken place.
CAPTAINS DAY was held on Saturday 18 July 09 and staged the Gentlemen v Ladies match for the Ken Young Trophy. Five rinks were played and the Gentlemen asserted themselves once more to win. However the match was hard-fought and Sheila Bragg’s rink recorded a convincing win over Kevin Noble’s. The four extra men played a pairs match on the sixth rink. Thanks to Gary Goode and Sheila Bragg our two Club Captains, for sponsoring. The Captains provided four bottles of wine, for the best Mens rink and four for the best woman’s rink. They also provided a sit-down meal. Gary Goode and friends made good use of the new oven by cooking Sausages and potatoes and baked beans. A dessert followed .The bar did very well and in summary a good time was had by all.
IMPROVED FACILITIES
Members will have noticed the new cooker and the dishwasher in the kitchen. As shown on Captains day and by Jo Barnes’s Chilli for the EBA ‘B’ team, a modern and bigger cooker allows us to do more adventurous catering. As for the Dishwasher, those many members who have toiled away for years washing up by hand will say “about time.”
Members will also have seen the smart new fencing at the railway end of the green. As well as improving security, the fencing really enhances the outside area and is virtually the final piece of a jigsaw. The new facilities are affordable and the club has financed them from current expenditure and not from reserves.
ROY WEST LEGACY
The Management Committee as still looking at using the Roy West legacy on clubhouse improvements. The family’s preferred option is the replacement of the portakabin changing rooms by a brick built extension to the clubhouse. The management Committee is examining the feasibility of such a project, which undoubtedly would need planning permission, investment of club funds and applications for grant aid.
BRENDA YATES MEMORIAL PAIRS DAY
Pair’s day take place on Sunday 26 July 10am for 10.30 start. Bring own lunch! Afternoon tea is being provided. Thanks to Harold Yates for sponsoring and of course we will be remembering Brenda.
APRIL AND MAY 2009
VERY SAD NEWS - IVOR MOORE died in the early hours of Saturday 23 May, peacefully and at home. A few comments here cannot do justice to Ivor, former club captain and bar manager but above all a huge character. First and foremost the club extends its deepest sympathy and condolences to Vera who has cared faithfully for Ivor over the last few months. The club's flag was flown at halfmast during play on the Saturday morning. Ivor's funeral will take place at St Mary's Parish Church, Attleborough, on Monday 8 June 2.00pm followed by a crematorium service at Earlham. Afterwards Ivor's family and friends will gather at the Connaught clubhouse. Donations in Ivor's memory are for MacMillan Nurses and can be sent to R J Bartram & Son, Funeral Directors, 31 Hargham Road, Attleborough NR17 2ES. NOTE: thank you to Avril and Roy Grapes for their kind message via the website. This will be passed on to Vera.
UPDATE - the funeral on 8 June was a moving and emotional affair for Ivor's many friends. Ivor's body arrived in a horse-driven carriage and family mourners followed the coffin into the church to the strains of The Londonderry Air. "I Vow To Thee, My Country" was sung. Family friend, Lesley, read "All Is Well" by Canon Scott Holland. John read 1 Corinthians 13 and Marc delivered a moving Eulogy. The Old Rugged Cross was followed by prayer, Jerusalem, Commendation and Blessing. Exit Music was a quiet rendering of My Way. The Committal at Earlham was attended by family and close friends. There was a large gathering in the clubhouse at which many memories of Ivor were shared.
PARSONS AND THE RIPPED TROUSERS - Mike Parsons continued a week of personal misfortune in county circles. Playing at lead in a county triples at home on Friday 29 May he bent down to cast the jack on the first end. An almighty rip and tear opened up the Parsons' trousers at the rear and exposed a pair of blue underpants to a very concerned Diana Adcock sitting nearby. Michael dashed off in disarray to the changing room and emerged wearing his wet gear white trousers, the only replacements to hand. Sylvia Parsons dashed across from an adjoining rink to see what all the fuss was about, offered no sympathy and left him to it. Every new spectator asked why Mike was wearing white trousers and dissolved into hysterics when finding out. Young Ollie Allen, in particular, almost had a seizure, such was his prolonged mirth. A 95-year-old and then this! Mike did play his part in a terrific match -
SEE MATCH REPORTPARSONS AND THE 95-YEAR-OLD - Mike Parsons and John Winup played in a friendly for Norfolk at Huntingdon on 26 May. Their four was the only one to lose and they lost horribly. To make matters worse Mike, an old enough lead himself, was facing Pat Errol, aged 95 and in his 181st match for Huntingdon. Mike fought hard, as ever, but came second on the day!
SPRING FAIR - £600 added to funds! Actually £597 and a few pence but the Ladies Chairman made up the difference. As ever the tombola was the favourite but was run close this year by the very well-stocked cake stall. Quite a sprinkling of members of the public. Thank you to all club members who helped in any way. UPDATE - total now up to £660 after donations
ITALIAN EVENING - new venture which went very well. 40 people dined in an Italian cafe atmosphere, with decor and music all very appropriate. With starter, a main course of either pizza or spaghetti bolognese, an icecream dessert, coffee and amoretti, bread, and wine - all for £5.00 per head - everyone was well satisfied. Thank you to the Social Committee team and especially to Heather for the cooking.
NORWICH CUP - despite winning the home leg Connaught went down in the second leg at Hempnall and lost overall by 20-28. Congratulations to a strong and competitive Hempnall side but well done to our side for getting to the final of a major competition.
See match reportsTHURGOOD SHIELD - a tremendous entry of 48 players this year. Ray Wells and Heather Winup beat Keith Beavers and Val Hamblingin an exciting final.
See match reportCLUB COMPETITIONS - four finals played on successive evenings and all went very well. Thank you to Bill Adcock for organistaion. Peter Hambling beats Keith Beavers in a devastating display to win singles. See report on this and other finals.
See finals table
GREEN OPENING - 25 April and all went well. Brilliant weather and green played superbly - thank you to Bim and helpers. 56 players took part in drive - must be a record - and many spectators turned up. The club chairman forgot his tie (again!) and looked a real scruff but to his credit he forked out for another one (about the 4th time this has happened to him!). Sylvia Parsons won drive (and £15!). £71.50 in green fees, £53 on spider (bottle of whisky won by Mick Utting), and £102 on raffle all made for a good financial start. And the bar did very well. Thank you to Social Committee for St George's flags and bunting and for those splendid cakes. Lastly, a special thanks to Bill Adcock for organising and to everyone who helped him by taking money for fees/spider/raffle.
Click here to view drive picturesFREE BOWLING! - as usual members have a free week from Sunday 26 April until Sunday 3 May inclusive. Green fees will be charged for everything from Monday 4 May
COACHING - free coaching sessions start on Saturday 2 May 10.00am to 12.00pm. New members with no playing experience are urged to come along. Dress can be informal but bowling/flat-soled shoes must be worn. Bowls can be provided. Sessions also open to members of public
FEBRUARY AND MARCH 2009
Click on photo's for full size
END OF AN ERA - Increasing ill-health has meant that IVOR MOORE has had to retire as Bar Manager after some six years' service. Until recently a devoted connoisseur of all the products (except soft drinks) sold at the Bar, Ivor had a style best described as "individual". Female customers, especially those of a comely and come on appearance, were treated with charm and old-fashioned flattery. Male customers, especially stalwart club members and regulars at the Bar, became used to harsher treatment usually of the ".... off" variety!. Seriously, Ivor technically was a very efficient Manager well-versed in the essential things such as cleaning the pipes. His draft beer was always immaculate. Thank you, Ivor, and get well.START OF AN ERA - Philomena (Phil) King has assisted Ivor behind the Bar for a long time, with bookkeeping and accounts her area of expertise. Phil now takes over from Ivor as Manager and we all know she will do an excellent job. She already has had a meeting with bar staff and with Ivor's help more people are learning the technical side of things.
DIARY DATES - CHEESE AND WINE SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY - there should be 50 or so attending and all arrangements are well in hand
- ITALIAN EVENING SATURDAY 4 APRIL - plans well under way
- GREEN OPENING SATURDAY 25 APRIL - traditional English Afternoon Teas
UPDATE - the Cheese & Wine evening was enjoyed by all. 54 people attended and sampled a wide variety of cheeses. Australian, Italian and South African wines provided enjoyable complements, as did the local ciders and apple juices from Greenwood's Farm, Carleton Rode. Two quizzes were held and competition was fierce. One was identifying celebrity spouses and partners and the other was naming Norfolk towns and villages beginning with "B". Boxes of vegetables, from Hoddy's Farm Shop Carleton Rode, went to the winners. Thank you to Heather and John Winup for organising and sponsoring. The total entry fees of £162 went to club funds.
THURGOOD SHIELD - a tremendous entry of 40+ names for this popular end of season drawn pairs short mat tournament (two-woods). Starts on. 3rd April Click here results table
BRECKLAND LEAGUE FIVE PAIRS - Connaught 'A' win the Five Pairs Final against local rivals, Wymondham - see match report. This is equivalent to a cup final and is the club's first major success of the season
Click here for match report
BRECKLAND LEAGUE - Connaught 'A' get their second win a week against Wymondham to secure at least second place in the league - see match report. They could win the league if Connaught 'B' could get 5 points at Yaxham on Tuesday 24 March - watch this space! Click here for match report
BRECKLAND LEAGUE - congratulations from Connaught to Yaxham on their second successive league title. Conceding very few points at home and very competitive away they deserve their title win. Connaught 'A finish second and Wymondham third after a tremendous three-way battle all season. And we all speaking together (just!)
NORWICH CUP FINAL - Connaught 'A' beat First Bus in semi-final - see match report - and will meet Hempnall in a repeat of the 2006/2007 final, home and away legs, on dates still to be confirmed. "Norwich Cup" is a misnomer - this is a county-wide competition and reaching the final is a major playing achievement. Click here for match report
LEE FALLOWS AND VICKY - Lee and Vicky are getting married on Tuesday 24 March at Rockland Church. A gift from the club and some champagne from the 'A' team squad were presented to him on Sunday at Wymondham during the Breckland League match. Many new members will not know Lee who after Ollie is the club's youngest playing member. For some years, with grandparents Gordon and Chris Taylor and mother Mary, Lee formed part of a strong family group in the club. Sadly, Gordon is no longer with us, Chris is ill and Mary is taking time out. However, Lee is our leading short mat player and also a regular county player. He is as good on the green as on the mat and we all hope he will be available regularly this summer. The club sends Lee and Vicky all best wishes for their wedding and their life together.
ITALIAN EVENING - the Social Committee is organising an Italian Evening on Saturday 4 April 6.30 for 7.00pm start. A three-course meal will be served and Italian wines and beers will be available from the bar. Décor and music will convey an Italian village café ambience. And who knows, one or two Mafiosi may be present. £5.00 per head, about 40 names so far and we can take 50 or so in total. List on noticeboard with main course choices.
MEMBERSHIP - after the annual renewal and subscription exercise the club had 137 members (all categories). A further four people have since joined/are in process of joining Return to Top JANUARY 2009
BARNDANCE - about 50 people attended and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. A sum of £108 was raised for club funds. Many thanks to the Entertainments Committee whose swansong this was. Ralf Ramm thanked Margaret for her hard work and she was presented with flowers
SUBSCRIPTION NIGHT - took place on Saturday 17 January and many people turned up to pay subs and their 100 Club fees. So far 105 people have renewed membership and for those who have not the books are open until 31 January. The signs are good and we are likely to maintain numbers. A welcome development is that five people have converted from social to playing membership. Thank you to Vera and Sylvia for the refreshments and to the Bar
anager for allowing a £1 off everybody's first drink! We will not know the final numbers of registered members for 2009 until the stragglers have paid up/not paid up by the end of the month.
SAD NEWS - Brenda Yates died on 10 January after being ill for several years. Brenda was a former ladies' President and ladies' Chairman and with Harold had for many years sponsored the annual Pairs Competition on the green in the summer. The club's deepest sympathy goes to Harold and family. The funeral is at Old Buckenham Parish Church on Monday 26 January at 11.15am. Refreshments follow at the Church Rooms. Senior club officials will wear blazers and regalia.
UPDATE - the funeral was moving and dignified. As well as family and friends and neighbours from Old Buckenham, many club members attended. The Rev Alistair Monkhouse, a neighbour and friend of Brenda and Harold, took the service. He spoke about Brenda's life. It was fascinating to hear about her days in the WRENS during the War and especially about her service at Bletchley Park. Not many of us knew about her later service as a parish and district counciller when she and Harold lived in Framingham Pigott. We did know about her long involvement with the WI. especially in Old Buckenham.
DIARY DATES - Cheese and Wine Saturday 21 February + small quizzes). £3 per head. Sponsored by Heather & John Winup. Posters/Notices should be up by now.
- Italian Evening Saturday 4 April - date firm - details to be advised
- Green Opening Saturday 25 April. In view of proximity to St George's Day, traditional English Afternoon Teas will be available
December 2008 News
NEW WEBSITE - we have started this new website, www.connaughtbowlsclub.co.uk on account of downtime and associated commercial difficulties with our previous site. We apologise to those of you visiting our previous site in recent weeks but were not responsible for the problems. In the next few weeks we will be transferring most of the material from that site while updating regularly with news of current playing results and of social etc events in the club
HALLOWEEN - many thanks to Margaret, Owen and all the Entertainments Committee for an evening both of terror and amusement. A net sum of £131.50 was raised for club funds
WHIST DRIVE - thank you again to the Entertainments Committee. A more sedate affair than Halloween for our whist enthusiasts. A net sum of £39 was raised for club funds
ANNUAL DINNER - the club's annual dinner takes place on Saturday evening 6 December in the clubhouse. The ladies of the club are doing the catering. Vera closed the list at 76 attendees - a sell-out yet again.UPDATE - another successful evening. All went well and particular thanks to Vera, Sylvia and everybody who helped
CHRISTMAS DRAW - takes place from 11.00pm on Sunday 14 December. We have been selling squares at a rate of knots and 50% of takings will be spent on prizes. Donated prizes also have been coming in well
so there should be something for most people buying a ticket! UPDATE - a good turnout and prizes were spread round. A surplus of about £200 was made for club funds. Particular thanks to Vera
BARN-DANCE - takes place on Saturday evening 3 January. See noticeboard for details. Quite a few names on list already
AGM - took place end November. Ken Lurcock re-elected as Chairman, Derek Liles Vice-Chairman, Mike Parsons Secretary, John Winup re-elected as Treasurer. Gary Goode to be EBA Captain and Sheila Bragg to be Ladies Captain. Alison Rush Ashill Mixed League captain. Heather Winup to chair a new Social Section