It has been some time since Honiton bowls appeared in print, far too long in fact, so finally this cub reporter has taken up the challenge.

It has been some time since Honiton bowls appeared in print, far too long in fact, so finally this cub reporter has taken up the challenge to follow in the footsteps of Scoop Oliver who has done such a wonderful job over the years in promoting the club but has finally been put out to grass, writes Gordon Mahoney. The club owe him a great deal of gratitude. Thank you, Norman.There have been so many events and games since our last report that only the most recent can be covered in any depth and not for the first time, the ladies take centre stage.The Yetton Plate saw a marvellous effort by the ladies in reaching the last 16 in England in this four rink competition. After winning the Devon section, they defeated the Cornwall winners but were finally defeated by the Somerset ladies of Taunton Vivary. Well done to all those who were involved in what was a super effort.Joan Heard and Sue Evans reached the zone finals of the national pairs and were within one game of qualifying for the national finals but lost by three shots.Pride of place goes to Rosemary Hirons, Ann Hillyear and Pearl Hackwood who did win the zone final in the two wood triples and qualified for the national finals to be played at Nottingham in March. l By contrast, the men have not had such a successful period. As expected life in the top echelon of the league is proving a difficult challenge and the same can be said with regards to the over-60s' matches. Hopefully the second half of the season will show an improvement and they will do themselves justice.A particular thank you, should be directed to the selectors of both for the competitive and friendly games. They give up many hours to ensure the club fulfils its very busy fixture list. It's a thankless task so please support them and the club by putting your names down for matches. It benefits everybody if all members make a contribution.If any members are still in national or county competitions, good luck and keep me informed of your results and, if anybody has any items they feel worthy of a mention in these jottings, I can be contacted during this cold spell in the igloo that Alan Nex has promised to build for me in the middle of the outdoor green.