Madeira have played four friendlies in the last couple of weeks but maybe the most unusual event was the ladies representative team playing in the final of the Lacemakers Competition.

It was a challenge for the Madeira team playing a strong Honiton team at their home rink. The Madeira team, which included bowlers playing at this level for the first time, fought hard but the only winning team was the Pairs with Jan Roberts and Joy Penberthy achieving an impressive 34 shots to 10 success.

There is news in on this year’s National Competitions. Andy Lock was thrilled to be drawn against renowned England bowler, Jamie Chesney, in the first round of the National Men’s Singles. In the event Chesney won by 21 shots to 7 but Andy thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Jean Rainton and Penny Preece were delighted with their first round win in the Ladies National Pairs when, playing a strong Sidmouth team, they led all the way to win by 26 shots to 13.

Madeira ladies went to Budleigh Salterton last Tuesday for a two triples match. It was closely fought before Budleigh won by 27 shots to 25. Madeira’s winning team comprised Joy Penberthy playing with Janet Grundy and Jude Latta with a plus 7 shot difference.

A mixed team of 3 triples from Chagford came to Madeira on Thursday and the home team had a strong win on all three games and overall by 81 shots to 20. Ian Munro playing with Sandy Worcester and J Fisher were on a roll with a 35-3 win.

Mid Devon brought three mixed triples team to Madeira on Friday. It was a close game with Madeira winning two games and overall by 45 shots to 38. Ron Cook and his team of Janet Grundy, Angela Fish and Vic Doidge achieved the best shot difference of the day of plus 6.

Lastly, Bovey Tracey came with 3 mixed rinks for an enjoyable afternoon. The home team won on 2 rinks and overall by 58 shots to 42 with another good win by Ian Munro’s team of Alan Halpin, Sue Long and Lin Hambly.