New course and new season at Axminster Bowls

It has been a fantastic start to the new season at Axminster Bowls Club.
Axminster played hosts to local rivals Lyme Regis in a friendly match of four mixed triples in glorious sunshine, played in good spirit with, of course, plenty of banter.
This was the first match to be played on the new all-weather surface, which was laid just before the first lockdown of 2020 and has only been used for roll-ups and the now very popular Tuesday "Umbrella".
The bowlers from Lyme Regis found the green a tad difficult to read with many woods ending up in the ditch, but they all adjusted well as the match progressed.
Axminster won comfortably on three rinks and Lyme won the other one, by three shots.
There was some excellent after-tea bowling by the trio of Ken Taylor, club coach Anne Clayton and Dave Yardley, which saw them storm away from an 11-11 half-time score to a mighty 29-15 victory.
Top rink honours went to the outstanding performance on rink three by Jack Hare, the ever-delightful Val Mellor, and "Steady Eddie" Backhouse, who proved just too hot for their opponents, winning 47-9.
This week`s friendly match arranged for Saturday with Ottery St Mary was unfortunately rained off and our next home game is on the 29th against Bridport bowling club.
The club is not only experiencing the joys of the new "carpet" (where else but Axminster) but has had an influx of many new members, who prefer the less demanding delivery action needed compared to playing on a grass surface.
If you are interested in having a go at bowls, please contact the club on 01297 631033 (not always manned) or Glen Elliott on 07933517591.
We would be happy to arrange a gentle hour or so roll-up to give you a taste of what the game is about, any age or gender will be welcome.