On a sunny bank holiday Monday with not a cloud on the horizon, Madeira Bowls braced itself for an annual highlight - the Nora Goldsmith Trophy for married couples.

Now, clearly Nora was  a woman of a mischievous bent and definitely not in the marriage counselling business! The folly of putting married couples on the same rink is well recognised.

Nonetheless, 16 pairs took to the rinks in search of glory, ably marshalled by Debbie Cole and Dee Williams. Little, (if any), blood was spilled and although several notable scalps were taken, the cream eventually rose to the top and the trophy went to Christine and David Macaulay.

Meantime, the stars were aligned as Madeira “C” faced Pinces “B” in the Exeter over 60’s. Thanks to a crack line up, skipped by Dave Mansell with Colin Broady and Graham Cottey, Madeira took six of the eight points on offer, propelling themselves up the league table.

There was further success in the Foxlands, where Madeira move forward to meet Feniton in the next round; and in the National Senior mixed doubles, the Exmouth club won on both rinks against Barnstaple to progress to the Devon semi-final. Then, in the Tony Allcock Trophy, Madeira “A” beat Barnstaple on both rinks to progress to the next round.

Finally, against the background of Madeira’s award winning gardens, tended by Joy Penberthy, players and spectators enjoyed an afternoon of “Fun Bowls” on Friday.

When the mayhem ceased, Lawrie Humphries, Ann Doidge and Martin Clook were declared winners. Three celebrity chefs and an army of kitchen volunteers then presented a sumptuous BBQ supper to ensure no-one left hungry. Congratulations to all involved.

In friendly competition away at Seaton, Margaret Humphrey, Chris Trayler, Sue Lampey and skip Ken Roberts kept their nerve to win their rink on the final end 15-14. The supporting cast were less successful, however, as Seaton enjoyed a comfortable 87-55 overall victory.

Then back on home soil, Madeira enjoyed triples success (62-50) against Devon Masonics despite a late rally by the visitors. Denis Huntley, Joan Brinkworth and skip David Macauley topped the scoring.

There was also a Bank Holiday trip to Dawlish Marina but the home side took advantage of the familiar territory to triumph 106-70.

By Terry Dowrick