On Saturday, in glorious sunshine, members of the Honiton Bowling Club opened their green for play, writes Tony Broughton.

Alan Nex, the new club president took over from the retiring Doug Hirons to cast the traditional first bowl of the season.

In true Middleton Cup fashion, Alan played for the county many times during his hay day in bowling, he touched the jack to show the magic never leaves.

Thirty nine players, that included a number of new bowlers and new members, first played a spider where all players play their bowls from the green edge to a jack placed in the middle of it. The closest to the jack wins a prize, this year it was Ken Clarke.

The green played well for a first day and a great vote of thanks was given to Trevor Pipe and his band of helpers for the good work done during the closed season.

This year’s captains are Berry Maynard, for the ladies’ and Tony Broughton for the men and we all wish them the best of fortune for the coming summer.

Many of these players, plus quite a few of the indoor season players, returned to the clubhouse that evening for a presentation of trophies to the winners of the Indoor competitions.

This was followed by buffet meal bringing a wonderful close to the Indoor season and a great start to the new outdoor one.

Anyone interested in playing bowls can come to the club this Sunday (April 27) from 10am to 2pm to try it out. All equipment and refreshment will be provided free.