Week Ending 23rd August 2023
This last week has been something of a Ladies Day at Phear Park. Each year we run a series of internal competitions and these include, the Challis Cup, Ladies Handicap and Ladies Championship. This year has seen both the Challis Cup and the Handicap won by Annette Bister whilst the Championship was won by Heather Salter. Our pictures show Annette and Heather with President Liz Nelson. Other matches during the week included a win at home against Seaton and a loss which was abandoned due to rain against Ottery St Mary.
Mike Killoran
Week Ending 30th July 2023
The Peter Nelson Shield competition was held on Saturday 29th July at Phear Park Bowling Club. This round robin style competition involved 24 bowlers in teams of 3 playing over 18 ends. This year's winners were John Horne, Bob Pemberton and Mo Bond with a plus score of 19. The runners up were Nigel Oates, John Dill and Sarah Westacott with a plus score of 13. The winners are shown here receiving the shield from club president Liz Nelson. The afternoon was rounded off with a superb fish and chip supper in the club house.
Mike Killoran
Week Ending 17th July 2023
The local derby between Phear Park and Budleigh Salterton was won today by a resounding score of 89 - 39. This friendly fixture is always a played in good spirits and fortunately the weather held to allow play to flow freely. The game was played over four rinks and all were won by Phear Park with the top scoring rink consisting of Bobbie Vanstone, Mike Killoran and John Robins. This team won with a score of 33 - 11.
Mike Killoran
Exonia Victory Cup Winners - 1st July 2023
Dick Mann Triples Competition - June 2023
Week Ending 12th June 2023
Phear Park hosted the Axon Cup on Saturday 10th June, this event is where six local teams are invited to compete against teams from Phear Park. The event is held over 18 ends with teams moving rinks every four to five ends. The event was won by Topsham with Pat Ferguson, Pete Whitham and Liz Harris seen here being presented the trophy by our president Liz Nelson. Runners up were John Whyte, Bobbie Vanstone and Rod Davidson.
Mike Killoran
Axon Cup Runners Up
The Teams Ready for the Axon Cup
First Report of the 2023 Season
After all the recent rain, it was delightful to open the new season with President’s Day on Sunday 16th April. Our picture shows the President Liz Nelson ready to open the day. We started with a Spider competition where everyone stands at the edge of the green and bowls one wood towards the jack, nearest the jack wins and this event combined with the draw raise £40 for Hospiscare
The President’s Day competition was played over 18 ends using a yardstick, with every wood within a yard of the jack scoring a point. Eight teams competed and three tied for first place with a score of plus 12. The eventual winners on a count back of ends won, were Sarah Westacott, John Whyte and David Hawkins.
Mike Killoran
Last Report of the Season - Week Ending 25th September 2022
As the outdoor season drew to a close, we had some final matches and an invitational fixture. The Peter Nelson Shield was won this year by Joan Cowing, Jenny Derbyshire and Roger Peddle, and was presented by Liz Nelson. Captain’s Day was won by three of our newer members, Heather Slater, Keith Bister and Bob Pemberton and was presented by Margo Allen. Finally, this year The Holly Tree Carder Cup was won by the happy looking foursome of Gary Sharland, Barry Davis, David Hawkins and Clare Sharland.
This year we extended the season by a week and played an Umbrella competition over three days and this was won by Sarah Westacott with the trophy being presented by John Robins.
Mike Killoran
The Peter Nelson Shield - The Winners
Peter Nelson Shield Winners were Joan Cowan, Jen Derbyshire and Roger Peddle. Liz Nelson presenting the trophy.
The Peter Nelson Shield - Competitors
The Holly Tree Carder Cup
Photograph shows - Gary Sharland, Barry Davis, David Hawkins and Clare Sharland
Report for Week Ending 11th September 2022
Phear Park were due to travel to Uffculme last Tuesday for a friendly match. Sadly, this was cancelled due to the inclement weather. In contrast we played a friendly against Paignton when they visited the Park on Thursday and despite the fact that it rained nearly all the way through, after fourteen of the scheduled eighteen ends, we called the match off for safety reasons only to find ourselves basking in sunshine ten minutes afterwards.
On Saturday we held the annual John Tucker Trophy competition. This is knockout event with all members playing on an equal basis. It was played over four rounds with each round consisting of up to ten ends. This means that the finalists will have played up to forty ends over nearly five hours and one hundred and sixty shots.
The winner this year pictured above was Mike Killoran with our President Liz Nelson and the runner up Keith Bister.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 4th September 2022 - Finals Weekend
The weekend of 3rd and 4th of September at Phear Park was quite busy with six finals being played over the two days. We started with the men’s two wood pairs, which was won by John Robins and Brian Phaby, and at the same time the Garbutt Knott Cup competition was played and was won by Rod Davidson.
On Saturday afternoon it was the Captains Trophy which was won by Mike Killoran and the men’s Handicap which was won by David Adams.
On Sunday morning we were supposed to have played the mixed pairs but due to injury the match was cancelled and the win by default went to Carolyn Hallett and Simon Weclawek. Finally, the Men’s Championship was won by Rod Davidson.
Sadly, there were no ladies competitions this year but following our recent success in attracting new members we hope to have a full programme for 2023.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 21st August 2022
The month of August is racing to a close and on 6th August we had the Dick Mann Triples Competition and the picture shows the winners Rod Davidson, Liz Nelson and Bob Pemberton. The following week we sent a team up to Exeter to compete in the Heavitree Shield and Phear Park won the trophy by one point. This was previously won many years’ ago when the competition was open to men only.
This last week has been a round of local derbies and on Monday 15th we played Topsham, but sadly Phear Park lost by 63 to 83. The game ended rather abruptly as I am sure many of you will remember there was a thunderstorm at about 4.30. The next match was against local rivals Madeira and luck was on our side and Phear Park recorded a victory of 77 points to 46. Finally, on Sunday 21st we went to Budleigh to play a friendly and Phear Park managed a win by 65 points to 56. Sadly, the game was made even harder due to the difficulties Budleigh have had with their green this year, but we wish them well for next season.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 31st July 2022
We have had a relatively quiet week at Phear Park. On Friday we sent a team to play in the Victory Cup at Budleigh with the event attended by visiting teams from East Devon and Exeter, with the best visiting team coming from Ottery St Mary, but the best overall score was recorded by one of the local Budleigh teams.
On Saturday we had our own Phear Park Trophy competition and this is a new event which will be played annually. The event was organised by John Robins in honour of his partner Marg Locke. We started with a Spider competition and this is where twenty four bowlers space out around the green, each with one foot in the ditch, and on the word go they all bowl one wood towards the jack in the centre. The proceeds from this event, along with the proceeds of the draw, amounted to £50 and this will be donated to the local Alzheimer’s Society.
We then played a new style of game, where pairs of bowlers were drawn to play each other using their club handicaps where applicable. The winning pair is then the one with the best points difference after one pair scores 18 points or up to 22 including a maximum handicap of 4. If you think this sounds complicated you would be absolutely right, but the eventual winners were Bobbie Vanstone and Simon Weclawek .
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 17th July 2022
The last week has seen changing fortunes at Phear Park. On Thursday evening our team went to Feniton to play in the semi-final of the Top Club. Sadly, we lost overall with only one of the rinks winning, but we were at least pleased to have progressed as far as we did.
On Saturday we travelled to St Thomas Bowling Club in Exeter and played on a very parched green. At half time the scores were fairly equal, but as they say “it all changes after tea”. Luckily for Phear Park we found the lines on a very difficult surface and recorded a fantastic win with a score of St Thomas 46 Phear Park 80. The rink with the highest score was John Horne, Mike Killoran and Sarah Westacott.
Finally, on Sunday a team from Pinces Gardens in Exeter came to Phear Park, the result was a loss by 3 points overall to Phear Park. There was some slight controversy on one rink with insufficient ends being played but, as always, we accepted the fact that this was a friendly match and look forward to another week in the sun at home and away.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 9th July 2022
It has been another busy week at Phear Park with lovely sunny weather and the greens bowling faster than ever.
On Thursday evening Phear Park hosted Chardstock in the Top Club. This is an inter club competition where we play over five rinks with a variety of singles, pairs etc. Phear Park managed to win by winning on 3 rinks and losing on 2. We now go to play Feniton in the semi-final.
On Saturday we hosted the Centenary Cup and this was started in 2011 to celebrate our 100th anniversary and this year we had visitors from as far afield as Chudleigh and Newton Abbot. The winners were Chudleigh with a score of plus 24 with two Phear Park teams tying for second scoring plus 10.
Finally, we took 4 triples to Pinces Gardens in Exeter on Sunday with the hosts winning 66 to 52. Phear Park only had one winning rink which was Sue Smith, Brian Phaby and skip John Robins. We look forward to playing them again at home next weekend.
Our picture shows the Club President Liz Nelson presenting the Centenary Cup to Chudleigh on Saturday afternoon.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 2nd July 2022
Report in the Exmouth Journal.
Report for Week Ending 12th June 2022
The week started with an away trip to Paignton and as I am sure you were all aware, the weather had been changeable and Tuesday was no different. We played a friendly fixture on five rinks which Phear Park won with an excellent score of 91 - 66. Fortunately, the day stayed fine but the threat of rain was ever present.
Thursday saw a slightly different match with two teams playing home and away simultaneously. One team of four went to Honiton whilst the second team stayed at home in the Foxlands Cup. Sadly, the team in Honiton were narrowly beaten and although the home team won, we were unable to achieve an overall victory. Star of the show at home was Simon Weclawek who played skip and kept us in the game on several occasions.
Finally, we played another competition on Saturday, the Axon Cup. This involves six teams coming from other clubs around Exeter and East Devon. Six teams from Phear Park then match the visitors to play a series of five games each comprising of four ends. The difficulty is that each of these games are played on different rinks and the winner is the team with the best overall points difference. This year the runners up came from Heavitree with plus 17, but the overall winners were a Phear Park Team scoring plus 18. The players were Shirley Parker, Rick Tatchell and John Dill. Shirley was a guest player from Heavitree playing in place of our Club Captain Margo Allen and as luck would have it she beat her husband who was in the runner up team from Heavitree.
Our picture shows the winning team being presented the cup by our President Liz Nelson
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 5th June 2022
It has been another fairly quiet week at Phear Park. We were due to play Seaton away, but it was decided that due to parking difficulties in Seaton with the Platinum Jubilee Celebration, we would move the fixture to Phear Park.
The match was due to be four triples, but unusually Phear Park had more players willing to play so we played a fifth rink with one team representing Seaton. The game went very well, even though we were playing under the threat of thunderstorms. Phear Park won the overall match with a very credible score of 89 – 66 with all four of the rinks against Seaton winning their respective matches and with the best score of 21 - 7 going to Simon Weclawek, Jen Derbyshire and John Horne.
Just a brief reminder that our open day is Saturday 18th June beginning at 10.00 and all are welcome.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 30th May 2022
It has been a slightly more difficult week at Phear Park. Twelve players travelled away to North Tawton on Tuesday where it was a close fought match, but eventually the hosts won by 6 points 62 - 56. The best score for Phear Park on the day was a 13 all draw with the other three teams each losing by 2 points. On Saturday we entertained a team from Bradninch, but we were unable to make full use of the home advantage and the guests won by 66 - 54.
Coming soon is the Phear Park Open Day on Saturday 18th June, which starts at 10.00 and runs through into the afternoon. This is a date for your diaries. This is a chance for anyone to come along and have a go at lawn bowls. We often have people looking over the hedge when we are playing - well now it’s time to come in and have a go! Phear Park is a small friendly club with just over thirty members and we are currently offering half price membership for the first year, along with three free coaching sessions and a try before you buy chance to see if bowls is for you. We hope to see some of you for a chance to try bowling for fun.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 23rd May 2022
Last week Phear Park played away to Feniton, the match was affected by rain which was forecast towards the end of the game and did in fact come in during the last two ends. Feniton won by a margin of 65 – 44 with Margo Allen’s team scoring the best result for Phear Park at a respectable 14 all draw.
On Saturday 21st the club set off for an away day to Truro, stopping at Jamaica Inn for coffee and then on to a perfect sunny day in Cornwall. The score was a remarkable 111 to Phear Park against 80 to Truro but that didn’t really matter. Everyone enjoyed the a great day out finished with a traditional cream tea (cream on first of course) then back home with a special thanks to a guest triple from Madeira who helped us to put out six successful teams.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 15th May 2022
We have had a week of mixed fortunes, first up was a trip all the way to the seafront to play local rivals Madeira. All I can say is well done to Madeira, we managed to win on one rink but overall it was a comprehensive victory for Madeira by 82 points to 42, well done and thank you for an enjoyable afternoon.
Next up we had a visit from Heavitree, this was a very closely fought contest played at our home ground. Phear Park managed to win by a slim margin 87 points to 85.
The last match of the week was away again this time to Culm Vale. The afternoon was changeable and we had some scattered showers but also the lead changed many times. As often happens it was all very different after tea with Phear Park winning by a total of 84 points to 57. One of the rinks came back from 3 - 8 down to win 22 - 9.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 9th May 2022
Phear Park welcomed Culm Vale Bowls Club for a recent match and with Culm Vale playing in the new colourful kit and Phear Park all in white, it was slightly reminiscent of the 2003 Rugby World Cup.
Scores were equal at half time and Sarah Westacott played the last shot (Jonny Wilkinson style) to secure a 66-62 victory for Phear Park.
The Men’s Over 60s at Sidmouth did not go to plan, with the A Team losing. However, we came back with a win by the slimmest margin against Uffculme, 63-62. Amazing, when there are 162 points on offer but very often teams will score only one point in each round. Uffculme had the youngest player I have seen to date at just 11 years of age but he played a very good game and we wish him well for the future.
The last match of the week was away to Chudleigh, which unfortunately ended in a heavy loss of 55-88.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 26th September 2021
More trophies for the already overcrowded mantelpiece of Rod Davidson, as Phear Park internal competitions came to a close.
First up was the Dick Mann triples, a round robin competition over a total of 18 ends. Rod skipped Nigel Oates and Joan Cowing to an overall shot difference of plus 14 to narrowly beat John Anderson, Mike Killoran and Sarah Westacott who finished with a score of plus 13.
In the John Tucker Trophy, a mixed singles straight knockout competition, Rod competed against Mike Killoran in a thrilling final that needed an extra end to decide the winner. Rod again came out on top, taking the trophy by 10-9.
With several cancellations, the only friendly to be played was an away match to Sidmouth. Sadly, Park lost on all four rinks, going down 53-89 overall.
Finally, the season came to an end with the traditional Captain's Day, in honour of this year's captain, Margo Allen. The day comprised of 3 matches; two rinks (teams of 4) and 1 triple. The yardstick format, where every bowl within a yard of the jack scores a shot, was won by John Anderson, Rod Davidson, Joan Cowing and Bryan Stone with a score of plus 10. Runners up on a score of plus 7 were Nigel Oates, John Whyte, Simon Weclawek and Sarah Westacott.
The day and season were completed with a traditional cream tea.
The club wishes to thank this year's Captain Margo Allen for what has been a strange and difficult year. Thanks also to the members of the committee who kept our ship afloat, and to all our members who came and competed in the various competitions and matches, making some sort of season possible.
We hope to see you all again next season.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 12th September 2021
Last Tuesday saw six teams of triples compete for the Peter Nelson Memorial Shield. This is an internal competition held annually in honour of club stalwart and several times Captain, Peter Nelson.
This year the shield was won by Sue Smith, Paul Beresford and David Horne, with a score difference of + 15. There followed a presentation of the shield by Liz Nelson to the victorious triple. The match, which was played in glorious weather, was followed by a well earned fish and chip supper in the clubhouse.
In other news, Park visited Uffculme for a mixed triples friendly. Park were grateful for the loan of a player, John Snell to complete their side. There followed a very enjoyable and close game that resulted in a narrow defeat for Park of 62-60. Our triple of Nigel Oates, John Snell and Sarah Westacott won 23-17, whilst the triple of John Horne, Carolyn Hallett and David Horne drew 14 all.
Sadly, the scheduled match at home against Feniton was called off by the visitors due to lack of players.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 12th September 2021
The weather was kind to our Final’s Weekend, enabling all Phear Park's internal competition finals to be played on time. So, on to the men's competitions.
Rod Davidson is our 2021 men’s overall champion. He beat Simon Weclawek 21-10 to regain the trophy, winning it for the second time. Rod and Simon also contested two further competitions with Rod winning both, the Garbutt Knott by 21 to 7, and the Handicap by 21 to 6.
Simon did not come away completely empty handed though, as he won the Captain's Trophy, beating Paul Beresford 21 to 15.
The Men’s Over 70s competition was won by Rod Davidson in his closest match of the weekend, coming from behind to beat Bryan Stone by one point. Final score was 21 to 20.
The Men’s Pairs trophy was won by Rod Davidson and John Robins who beat Simon Weklawek and Peter Burch 20-9.
The Ladies Championship this year was won by Sarah Westacott who beat Jen Derbyshire 21-15. Sarah also beat Jen in the Ladies Handicap by 21-15. Sarah went on to beat Sue Smith in the 2 wood Margaret Marsh Cup final, 16-12. To complete a splendid weekend for her, Sarah also won the Mixed Pairs, partnered by John Anderson, and the 3 wood Challis Cup against Margo Allen who conceded with the score at 18-4.
Congratulations to all our winners!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 5th September 2021
Phear Park welcomed Gordon Short, who is celebrating his hundredth birthday by visiting various bowling clubs in Devon, raising money for Devon Air Ambulance by playing a member of each club. To date, Gordon has already raised £3,500 of his £5,000 target. At Park, Gordon played 5 ends against our club President Peter Burch, and won by 6 shots to 4. Phear Park were pleased to make a donation to his cause, and wish him well in his future matches.
In the over 60s league, the A team won overall 34-26 at Exeter’s Belmont where our triple of Peter Burch, Dave Adams and Rod Davidson were convincing victors, 21-11.
At home to Madeira however, the team lost on both rinks, each by just the one shot.
Sadly, the B team also lost on both rinks away to Bradninch.
Park fared better in a friendly, also at Bradninch, winning on all but one rink, with a total score of 61-53. Nigel Oates, Margo Allen and Mike Ebdon (17-11), Liz Nelson, Roland Heale and David Horne (15-14), and John Horne, Joan Cowing and Sarah Westacott (18-11) secured the victory.
With a busy Finals Weekend to come, which we shall be reporting on next week, that will only leave several traditional matches with which to wrap up this season for Park.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 29th August 2021
Two friendly matches to report this week, both at home. Visits by Budleigh Salterton and Seaton resulted in close overall shot victories for Park.
Against Budleigh, rinks were shared 2-2 but the winning triples of Nigel Oates, Jen Derbyshire and Rod Davidson (26-13), and Sue Smith, Rick Tatchell and Simon Weclawek (25-14) helped secure a 80-70 victory.
Rinks were also shared against Seaton, but Park just squeaked in for the win 64-63. The winning triples were David Dowden, Jen Derbyshire and Simon Weklawek (19-11) and Nigel Oates, Brian Halsey and Sarah Westacott (26-9).
Phear Park looks forward to the visit of Gordon Short on 31st August, who at the splendid age of 100, is in the process of visiting a number of clubs across Devon, raising money for the Devon Air Ambulance. He is an ex-President of Bowls Devon with sons who now play at County level too. Gordon served with distinction in the war and was awarded the Burma Star. He will play 5 ends against Phear Park President Peter Burch. Park will make a donation to the cause.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 15th August 2021
Victory for Phear Park in the Axon Cup!
The Cup is an annual mixed round robin triples competition played over a total of 20 ends, competing against teams this year from Belmont, Heavitree (both Exeter clubs), Topsham, Budleigh Salterton and Madeira.
The Park triple of Rick Tatchel, Brian Halsey and John Robins were this year’s winners with an overall shot difference of plus 13.
In a home friendly against Madeira, Park won 3 of the 4 rink triples to achieve overall victory by 82-41 points.
The successful triples were Paul Beresford, Joan Cowing and skip Simon Weclawek; Sue Smith, Jen Derbyshire and skip Dave Adams (20-14); and the Captain’s rink of John Barwick, Rick Tatchell and skip Margo Allen (21-6).
Moving on to the Over 60s League, the A team won on one rink but lost on the other to Madeira E. Park’s successful triple of Rick Tatchell, Dave Adams and Mike Ebdon were 17-14 winners, but this was not enough to prevent an overall 6 shot loss, 37-31.
At Ottery St. Mary, the B team gained 6 points with a win against their D team. The Park triple of John Dill, John Whyte and Bob Baker secured an emphatic 23-7 win in a thrilling 32-27 overall victory.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 15th August 2021
Devon Masonics made their annual visit to Phear Park for a friendly, albeit with a depleted team due to a car breakdown en route!
The rinks of Liz Nelson, Margo Allen, Roland Heale and skip David Horne; and Sarah Westacott, Nigel Oates, Brian Halsey and skip Simon Weclawek won 16-13 and 20-13 respectively. This was augmented by the triple of Sue Smith, Rick Tatchell and John Robins who scored 3 shots on the final end, securing a 14 all draw, leading to an overall win for Park 50-40.
The over 60s A Team had a good win against Seaton B, with the triples of Peter Burch, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson; and Rick Tatchell, Simon Weclawek and skip Mike Ebdon securing maximum points.
Against Belmont B, Parks B team could only win on one rink, with John Dill, John Whyte and Bob Baker taking the honours. Sadly, their 16-12 win was not enough for an overall score win.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 10th August 2021
On an overcast but thankfully dry day, Phear Park was finally able to hold its President’s Day. Club President Peter Burch oversaw an internal competition of mixed rinks and triples matches, with the winning team being the one with the highest score difference. With a score of plus 16, this year saw the rink of Nigel Oates, John Whyte, Joan Cowing and skip Rod Davidson taking the honours and the wine!
In a rearranged friendly at Chudleigh, Park could only win on one rink in a 71-60 defeat. The success of the day was the triple of Sue Smith, John Anderson and Rod Davidson who won 22-15.
Unfortunately, the weather got the better of a scheduled friendly at Starcross, cancelled due to rain.
Park's internal competitions are progressing at a pace, after the triple whammy of Covid restrictions, the road closure and the appalling weather. With a bit of luck and a following wind (but NOT rain), we may even get them finished before the end of the season!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 26th July 2021
Phear Park's historic run in the Top Club competition sadly ended in a comprehensive defeat against an excellent Seaton team in our semi-final. Seaton will now go on to play Madeira in the final. Never mind, there's always next year.
In a friendly match at Exeter Pinces Gardens, Park went down 3 rinks to 1, losing 52 shots to 73 overall. The triple of John Dill, John Anderson and Sarah Westacott was our sole win of the day with a score of 21-16.
A visit to neighbours Budleigh Salterton for another friendly did provide success however, with two fighting comebacks and a further rink leading from the start resulting in an overall victory of 90-61. The triple of Kay Beresford, Brian Halsey and Rick Tatchell came back from 0-9 down to win 18-16, and the triple of Nigel Oates, Paul Beresford and Sarah Westacott came back from 3-14 to eventually win 20-18. Sue Smith, Jen Derbyshire and David Adams completed the victory with an impressive 34-3 win.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 19th July 2021
Phear Park makes history!
For the first time in the club's history, Phear Park have reached the semi-final stage of the Top Club competition. This is a multi-discipline annual event, contested by a number of clubs, including Honiton, which is where the Park team recorded a thrilling 3-2 win. Victories in both the 2 wood and 4 wood singles matches, and again in the triples secured the win. Seaton will be the venue for our semi-final, which is scheduled for 22nd July.
Rain showers and road closures in Phear Park combined to make fixtures hard to manage, but two friendly matches were completed, both against Exeter St Thomas.
It was a home win for Park, thanks to the performances of Nigel Oates, Joan Cowing and Rod Davidson who won 25-5; Jen Derbyshire, John Anderson and Simon Weklawek (22-8); and Peter Burch, Rick Tatchell and Brian Halsey who drew 15 all.
An overall win for Park 79-48.
Fortunes were reversed in the away fixture with St Thomas running out 81-53 winners in scorching heat, with all four Park triples losing
Paul and Kay Beresford
End of Season Report - September 2020
It’s been a strange sort of season, with no inter club matches but, by following government and Bowls England guidelines, bowls did return to Phear Park in a limited way. Thanks are due to members who worked hard to ensure that an internal “umbrella” competition took place, with games being played 3 times a week from July to September. In addition there were 3 one day competitions and our traditional last match of the season, Captains Day.
The Umbrella was a triples and pairs competition, with teams drawn on the day. It proved to be very successful, with regular attendance by a majority of our membership taking part. Points were awarded for winning teams, with a bonus point going to the team winning by the largest margin. The competition was won by Mike Ebdon who finished on 44 points. Rod Davidson was runner up on 41 points, with Rick Tatchell finished third on 34 points.
First to be played of the one day competitions was the Peter Nelson Memorial Shield, which has become a regular fixture for the club. Three triples matches played over 18 ends resulted in victory for John Horne, Rick Tatchell and skip Mike Ebdon with a score of plus 9 shots. David Dowden, John Robins and skip Rod Davidson were runners up with plus 3 shots.
Next up was the Dick Mann Triples competition. This was won by David Dowden, Peter Burch and skip Sarah Westacott, with a score of plus 13 shots. Runners up were Sue Smith, John Robins and skip Roland Heale who finished on plus 7.
After a few hiccups dodging the rain, the John Tucker competition finally got going on Friday 25th September. This is a straight knock out competition for singles. Rick Tatchell came through two tough matches to beat Simon Weclawek 9-3 in the final.
Finally, the traditional Captains Day match saw the official end of the season. Matches were played using yardsticks, with every bowl within one yard scoring a point. Overall, victory went this year to the Vice Captains team, which triumphed over the Captains team 166 – 161. The best triple of the day however was won by a Captains side of Kay Beresford, Rick Tatchell and skip Rod Davidson with a score of 53 – 34.
Sadly no cream tea to end the festivities, but an enjoyable end to what has obviously been a difficult year. Lets hope that we can get back to normal play by next season, and we send best wishes to the wider bowling community. All at Phear Park will also be very grateful if “our” fox finds a new home thus winter.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 22nd September 2019
The Peter Nelson Memorial Shield was contested for the second time at Phear Park on the 17th September this year. The round robin competition was inaugurated last year by Liz Nelson, in memory of her husband Peter, who was a club stalwart and Captain. This year, the Shield was won by the rink of Mike Killoran, John Robins, Simon Weclawek and Sarah Westacott who finished with a score of plus seventeen shots. Runners up were Rick Tatchell, Liz Nelson/Marg Lock (who shared a game), John Anderson and David Evans with a score of plus six. In third place came the quartet of Sue Smith, Mike Passmore (both in their first season), John Horne and Brian Halsey with plus one.
The last friendly matches of the season began with a visit to Uffculme, where despite a good win for the Park triple of John Horne, Christine Hatchard and skip Brian Summers (24-9), Park went down to an overall defeat 54-84.
At home to Paignton however, winning triples of Marg Lock, John Anderson and skip Peter Burch; Mike Passmore, Joan Cowing and skip Brian Summers; and Sue Smith, John Robins and skip Tony Hanson saw Park to an overall 79-70 win. The triple of Margaret Ratcliffe, Mike Killoran and skip Brian Halsey drew their match 11 all.
Alas, a further fixture away to Sidmouth resulted in losses on all rinks for Park.
Our season came to a traditional conclusion with Captain’s Day, a fun afternoon (with cream tea!) consisting of four triples matches using yardsticks, where every bowl within a yard of the jack scores a point. This year’s winners with a score of 64 and a points difference of plus 13, were John Horne, Joan Cowing and skip Mike Ebdon. The runners up were Kay Beresford, Rick Tatchell and skip Rod Davidson with a score of 54 points and a difference of plus 9 shots. Both these teams troubled the scoreboards, which only go up to 49 shots!
Well, that’s it for this season, where did the time go? All the best to Phear Park players who are continuing indoors during the winter, at different venues. Paul and Kay however are going into hibernation as far as bowls is concerned, and will be watching some Rugby (starting with the World Cup of course), Football and Athletics.
Here’s to next April and the 2020 season!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Finals' Weekend 2019
It’s a Summer’s summer at Phear Park bowls, as Brian Summers concludes a great personal season.
He has won all four of the Park’s internal competitions that he contested at this years’ Finals Weekend, to add to the Dick Mann Triples title he had already won, together with John Dill and Joan Cowing. They won this round robin triples competition with a fine score of plus 15 shots.
Brian started the weekend with an exciting Men’s Handicap final against Rod Davidson, the defending champion. The two men were on fine form, and the lead changed hands several times, until both men reached 23-23. This was enough for Brian to take the title, with his handicap of 2, leaving Rod still 4 shots short with his handicap of 6.
Brian went on to play Tony Hanson later in the day, for the Captain’s Trophy, a competition for men who have not won this trophy previously. Brian won the match 21-7.
Next day, Brian was in action again, first winning the men’s’ pairs, where he was ably abetted by Mike Passmore. They beat the pair of Rick Tatchell and Simon Weclawek 17-12. This was a first trophy for Mike, in his first season with the club. Well done!
Finally for Brian came the Men’s Singles Championship where he was competing against Simon Weclawek again. He concluded his personal clean sweep with a 21-8 victory. Congratulations to our new Club Champion!
Now for the matches that Brian was not involved with. In the Garbutt Knott, Rick Tatchell put aside his disappointment with the Pairs result, going on to win the final against David Adams. Rick had to come from behind twice, showing great tenacity against his more experienced opponent, to win 22-16, taking a 4 on the final end. He ‘never gave up’!
All was not lost for David Adams however, as he had a fine win in the Over 70s final against John Whyte, coming out on top 21-5.
On to the Ladies Finals, just the two this year. In the Margaret Marsh Cup which is a 2 woods competition, a very close competitive match played in great spirit, saw Sue Smith and Kay Beresford finish the final end 15 all, which meant an extra end was played. Congratulations to Sue Smith who got the final shot to win the cup. This is Sue’s first season, so very well done to her!
Finally, on a sunny Sunday morning, the same two players contested the Challis Cup, a 3 wood competition, although with a different result. This time it was Kay Beresford who came through to take the Cup 19-9. What a difference an extra wood can make!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 1st September 2019
The Phear Park over 60s A team take the Division 4 title, with a maximum 8 point home win against Crediton B.
The winning triples of Brian Summers, David Adams, skip Rod Davidson and Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson and skip Mike Ebdon won 14-12 and 19-7 respectively to take the match and title 33-19. Sadly the club finances will not run to an open top bus celebratory parade through the town, so it will have to be the land train instead! Congratulations go to Captain Rod Davidson and the A team squad of Brian Summers, David Adams, Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson, David Evans, Gordon Cooke and Mike Ebdon for this triumphant season. Take a bow gentlemen!
The B team finished their campaign with two points at Ottery St Mary, with the winning triple of John Dill, John Whyte and skip Simon Weklawek scoring 24-13. Overall however Park lost by one shot – Ottery took the remaining 6 points which secured promotion to Division 5 for them.
The C team finished with an unexpected 8 points without bowling a wood, when Uffculme defaulted because they were unable to field a full team.
In friendly mixed triples, Park lost away to Bradnich and at home to Seaton. At Bradnich, Peter Burch, Roland Heale and skip Brian Summers, and John Horne, John Robins and skip Sarah Westacott won their matches 17-13 and 27-11 respectively. Overall though, Park lost 62-66.
At Seaton, John Robins, Christine Hatchard and skip Brian Summers were the only Park success, with a close 16-13 win. Seaton won overall 67-51.
With the over 60s league completed, and only 5 friendly matches remaining the close of the season will soon be upon us. Before then though, the finals of the club’s internal competitions will take place over the coming weekend (7th/8th Sept), which should produce some close encounters. Spectators are very welcome to watch the various finals which will start at either 10am or 2pm on both days. Entrance is free!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 25th August 2019
Promotion guaranteed for the men’s Over 60s League A team.
A fine overall win at Madeira 39-33 ensured at least second place in Division four, whilst an overall home game in the last game of the season against Crediton will see the Park side finishing top of the league (no pressure then)! The winning triple of Brian Summers, Rod Davidson and skip Mike Ebdon secured the six points with an excellent 27-14 win. Well done!
The B team were also triumphant, taking maximum points in a home win to a good Wellington side. Triples of Paul Beresford, John Whyte, skip Simon Weclawek and John Horne, Roland Heale, skip John Anderson won 19-12 and 14-11 respectively, to take a fine 10 shot overall victory.
Alas, the C team were heavily defeated on both rinks against Sidmouth to remain firmly rooted to the foot of Division 8.
It was a busy week for friendlies with matches against Topsham, Madeira and Budleigh. Although only winning 2 of the 5 triples against Topsham, Park ran out overall winners 78-73, thanks to an overwhelming 32-2 win by Sue Smith, John Anderson and skip Simon Weklawek. The captain’s rink of John Horne, Paul Beresford and skip Sarah Westacott came back from 5-13 down after 13 ends, to claim victory 15-14, with a winning shot on the final end!
The reverse away to Madeira, where Park only lost on one rink, with one drawn but narrowly lost overall 65-68. It was however a great afternoon with our friends and neighbours, with the winning triples being Mike Passmore, Mike Killoran, skip Sarah Westacott, and Kay Beresford, Peter Burch , and skip Brian Summers, who came from behind after tea to win 17-15.
Only one triple won at Budleigh, on what was a very hot and sunny day, with Sue Smith, Roland Heale and skip John Pope taking 3 shots on the final end to win 22-21. Alas, not enough to prevent an overall win to neighbours Budleigh 73-61. Never mind, the company was convivial, and the after match drinks went down very well, especially when we found out about the cricket! That Stokes can play for us anytime he wants!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 18th August 2019
Phear Park welcomed touring side Devon Masonics to the first friendly following our Annual Tournament. Although Devon Masonics brought just two rinks, a good afternoon was had by all, with one win apiece, but an overall win for Phear Park 41-24. Our rink of Margaret Ratcliffe, Mike Passmore, Mike Killoran and skip Brian Summers ran out 29-4 winners.
Next up was a visit from Babbacombe, for what proved to be a closely fought match, with Park shading an overall win 58-55, although the visitors were victorious on 2 rinks, with one rink drawn. However, a fine win by Park triple Mike Passmore, Mike Killoran and skip Sarah Westacott made the difference, with a score of 21-7.
Okehampton were the visitors for a 4 mixed triples encounter, which also turned out to be a tight match, although this time Park lost overall 50-55. Sue Smith, Paul Beresford and skip John Robins drew their match 14-14, and the triple of John Horne, Doreen Pope and skip Peter Burch provided Park with their lone victory on the day, scoring 16-8.
All 3 over 60s teams were in action, with the A team continuing an excellent season so far with a win against Okehampton, taking maximum points. The triple of Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson and skip David Evans won 18-10, and Brian Summers, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson beat the Okehampton triple 26-9. Keep it up lads!
Mixed fortunes for Phear Park B, with a narrow defeat on one rink, but a fine win by the triple of John Horne, John Dill and skip John Whyte of 21-6 ensured an overall victory of 35-25, and a valuable 6 points.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Tournament Report - Week Ending 11th August 2019
A week of mostly fine weather and some excellent bowling saw that the 40th anniversary of the Phear Park Open Tournament was a great success.
The week started on Sunday 4th August with the mixed triples. This is an all-day round robin competition, with 20 competing teams playing a total of 4 matches each, playing 9 ends per match. The worthy winners were Viv Kirkland, Peter Davis and Janet Griffiths, all from Okehampton Bowling Club.
The men’s pairs followed, which this year was won by Norman Owens and Frank Prince from Babbacombe Bowling Club, who needed a deciding extra end in the final to defeat Leighton Burston (Ottery St Mary BC) and Richard Hardman (Exonia) to take the title 15-14.
Success for Phear Park followed, with Sarah Westacott and Margaret Ratcliffe winning the round robin ladies pairs, with an impressive score of plus 20.
More success for Sarah Westacott followed, when she teamed up with Rick Tatchell for the mixed pair’s competition. The final was played in deteriorating weather, and was against fellow club members Margaret Ratcliffe and Rod Davidson. Sarah and Rick won 21-8 to claim the title.
Moving on to the men’s singles competition, Phear Park player Brian Summers had a splendid win, beating several fine players along the way, culminating in a final against the defending champion “Storming” Norman Owen, which Brian won 21-12.
Many congratulations to all the winners, and competitors from Phear Park and elsewhere, for contributing to a fine Tournament. Many thanks also to the many club members who assisted in the organising and running of the Tournament with their commitment and hard work, with a special mention for Bob Baker and helpers, who kept the kitchen running all week, providing hot meals, snacks and drinks to keep everyone going.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 4th August 2019
The men’s over 60s triples league dominates this week, with all three teams in action as the business end of the season approaches.
The A team lost their top of the league position, gaining just 2 points away to Marina (Dawlish) and then again at home to Feniton Eagles. Brian Summers, Gordon Cook and skip Mike Ebdon were the success at Marina, with a fine 27-9 win and Rick Tatchell, Gordon Cook and skip Mike Ebdon won a closely fought match 22-20 against Feniton.
The B team fared better, with two 6 point wins against Bradnich and Uffculme. John Dill, John Whyte and skip Simon Weclawek won 22-12 at Bradnich, helping to secure an overall 32-29 win, whilst Paul Beresford, John Dill and Simon Weclawek had a comfortable win against Uffculme, where Park won overall 36-27.
The C team, who only had one fixture during the week, lost overall to Seaton but the triple of Patrick McCahearty, Peter Sydenham and skip Tony Dealler gained 2 points with their win of 16-13.
No friendlies to report this week, as they give way to Phear Park’s annual Open Tournament, which began last Sunday. This is the 40th such tournament, and reports of the action will be coming next week!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 28th July 2019
With an away game at Exeter St Thomas cancelled, there are four mixed triple friendly matches to report on this week, with a 50% success rate for Phear Park.
A home win against neighbours Budleigh Salterton saw the winning triples of Bob Baker, Christine Hatchard and skip Rod Davidson; Doreen Pope, Mike Killoran and skip Brian Summers help secure an overall win for Park 65-63.
The other overall victory was at home to Hatherleigh, where Park won all 4 triples. Well done to John Horne, Roland Heale and skip Brian Summers; Sue Smith, Rick Tatchell (captain of the day) and skip John Anderson; John Robins, Margaret Ratcliffe and skip Rod Davidson; and Marg Lock, Mike Passmore and skip Simon Weclawek who secured the spoils with an emphatic 71-48 overall win.
On to a home game against Exonia (Exeter) where the triple of John Horne, Christine Hatchard and skip Brian Summers; and a rink of Margaret Ratcliffe, David Downden, Ron Rooke and skip Simon Weclawek both narrowly won. Unfortunately defeat on the remaining rink meant an overall loss to Park of 45-51.
Our friends from Chudleigh took two of the five triples, with one being drawn. Again, defeat on the remaining rinks saw Chudleigh safely to an overall win of 92-69. The triples of Kay Beresford, Sue Smith and skip Brian Halsey; and Liz Nelson, Paul Beresford and skip David Evans were Park’s winning sides, with Margaret Ratcliffe, Roland Heale and skip John Anderson drawing their match.
In the men’s over 60s league, only the B team secured points with an overall 32-28 win at home to Culm Vale. The triple of John Horne, Roland Heale and skip John Pope was victorious with a good 24-11 win.
Following on from some very good recent results, the A team sadly were carpeted at Axminster on both rinks, and it was no better for the C team who also lost on both rinks at home to Wellington (Somerset). Hopefully, better days ahead with the important fixtures coming up this week!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 21st July 2019
The over 60s A team score another 8 point victory in their bid to win the league (Division 4). Gordon Cook, Tony Hanson and skip Mike Ebdon, and Brian Summers, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson secured an impressive 61-17 overall home victory, winning on both rinks against Chardstock.
The B team however suffered a heavy loss at Heavitree to come away pointless.
The C team also lost on both rinks at home to Hemylock but then shared the spoils away at Marina (Dawlish), with 1 rink each, and an overall score of 36 all. The triple of Peter Sydenham, Patrick McCahearty and skip Tony Dealler were Park’s winning rink.
In friendly matches, Pinces Gardens (Exeter) won fairly comfortably at Phear Park, winning 3 of the 4 rinks, and 88-47 overall. Rick Tatchell, Doreen Pope and skip Simon Weclawek were the sole successful triple of the day, winning by 24-16.
A better day followed at North Tawton, with an overall victory to Park of 83-49. David Downden, John Anderson and skip Mike Ebdon; Bob Baker, John Dill and skip Brian Summers were the winning rinks, with John Horne, Mike Killoran and skip Rod Davidson drawing their match 14-14.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 7th July 2019
The mens’ over 60s league dominates our weekly report this time, with the A team maintaining top position of Division 4, following an 8 point win against Heavitree. The triples of Rick Tatchel, Tony Hanson and skip David Evans, and Brian Summers, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson were triumphant with an overall score of 39-24. A great performance, especially as David Evans’ triple was 15-5 down after 12 ends, but came back to take 14 unanswered shots on the last 6 ends to win 19-15!
The B team had two fixtures, with mixed results. Paul Beresford, Peter Burch and skip John Anderson, and John Dill, John Whyte and skip Simon Weclawek beat Madeira D on both rinks, and overall by 35-25. Against Tiverton West End however, they could only gain 2 points, coming from the triple of John Dill, John Whyte and skip Simon Weclawek winning 28-11. Unfortunately the other Park triples went down 30-8, resulting in a losing overall score of 36-41.
The C team had even less fortune at Feniton (Falcons), losing on both rinks, going down overall 23-49. Perhaps Park should try giving their teams a cool name!
There was only one friendly played this week, and visitors Exeter St Thomas took all 4 rinks to win the match 46-81.
Heres hoping for better luck next time, and long may the days be dry (it can rain overnight if it wants)!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 30th June 2019
Sunny days return to Phear Park, with the weather finally producing lovely bowls-playing conditions.
Whilst an away match to Seaton was abandoned after 14 ends, fixtures against Sidmouth, Heavitree (Exeter) and Okehampton were completed in glorious weather and friendly rivalry. The sun certainly shone on the triples of John Horne, Roland Heale and skip Simon Weclawek; Margaret Ratcliffe, Mike Killoran and skip John Anderson; Peter Burch, Joan Cowing and skip Brian Halsey, who secured an overall 72-56 win at home against Sidmouth. The other triple of Christine Hatchard, Ron Rooke and skip Bob Baker drew on their rink, so almost achieving a clean sweep for Park.
A visit to Heavitree followed, where Park lost overall by 98-77, albeit winning two of the five triples. The successful rinks were Sue Smith, Rod Henderson (kindly loaned by Heavitree) and skip Rod Davidson (17-15), and a superb performance by John Horne, Roland Heale and skip David Evans (23-7).
Okehampton next, where their annual dog show next door provided interest for some (ok, me) before the match. Only the Captain’s triple of John Horne, Margaret Ratcliffe and skip Paul Beresford (Capt) were successful, with Park’s other three triples going down to a very good Okehampton side. The hosts won overall by 76-56.
In the over 60s league, both the B and C teams lost at home to Ottery St Mary and Uffculme respectively. However, the A team had a more successful afternoon at Crediton, winning on one rink by 5 points, and drawing on the other. The winning rink was Brian Summers, Rod Davidson and David Adams, whilst the Park rink that drew were Gordon Cooke, Peter Ebdon and Tony Hanson. This rink were, at one stage, 1-17 DOWN, but fought back to secure the draw, and so contributed to the A team garnering another 7 points, which means that, at time of writing, they are TOP of Division 4! Very well done.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 16th June 2019
The weather struck again at the start of the week, with our aptly named Umbrella internal competition rained off .
We start therefore with the excellent results of Park’s three over 60s teams. A heavy green and long jacks saw the A team take the honours, and maximum 8 points with an impressive 54-19 overall win at Okehampton. The triples of Brian Summers, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson, and Rick Tatchell, Mike Ebdon and skip David Evans triumphant with scores of 34-5 and 20-14 respectively.
The B team also secured maximum points with a 39-24 score at Crediton. John Dill, John Whyte and skip Simon Weclawek (20-16), and Peter Burch, Roland Heale and skip David Horne (19-8) were the winning triples.
At home against North Tawton the C team almost made a clean sweep of maximum points but narrowly missed out, going down on one rink by a single shot. The triple of Patrick MacCahearty, Mike Killoran and skip Bob Baker achieved victory on their rink 17-14, to secure an overall win of 30-28, gaining 6 points.
The annual event of the Axon Cup, a multi-club round robin triple competition, took place on an unusually sunny Saturday afternoon. The event was won by Heavitree with a score of + 16, who had been asked to play for Phear Park, due to a shortage of home side players. The runners up spot was shared by the home side and Topsham. Park’s triple of Mike Passmore, Joan Cowing and skip Rod Davidson finished on +7.
Many thanks to the teams from Madeira, Exonia (Exeter), Budleigh Salterton, Topsham, Belmont (Exeter) and Heavitree (Exeter) for taking part.
The week’s fixtures concluded with a trip to the English Riviera for a friendly game of triples against the Torquay club (not West Ham) of Upton Park. Phear Park won the day, winning 3 of the 4 rinks, and by an overall score of 58-54 (despite a Phear Park skip putting the scores on the wrong sides of the scorecard, which initially confused everyone!).
The winning triples were Liz Nelson, Rick Tatchell and skip Peter Burch (16-13); Sue Smith, Paul Beresford and skip Margo Allen (17-12); Kay Beresford, Mike Ebdon and skip Brian Halsey (15-13).
Unfortunately the second round of the Foxlands Trophy against Seaton was postponed due to rain, and is re-scheduled for Friday 21st June.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 9th June 2019
The weather got the better of the first fixture of the week against Babbacombe who were visiting for a five rink friendly triples match. This was an especial disappointment, given that the game was to be the first visit by Babbacombe for several years. Happily, we can now report that the fixture has been rearranged for August, when we will hope for kinder weather!
Moving on to the men’s over 60s league, all three teams lost their matches overall. The A team lost to Marina B (from Dawlish) 23-32, but the triple of Rick Tatchell, Gordon Cook and skip Mike Ebdon secured 2 league points with a 19-12 win on their rink.
No joy at all for the B and C teams, who lost on all rinks against Bradninch A and Broadclyst respectively.
A closely fought second round tie against Madeira in the Top Club Trophy was up next, and ended with our neighbours winning 3 rinks to 2.
The rink of Simon Weclawek, Peter Burch, Mike Ebdon and David Evans, and the triple of David Adams, Tony Hanson and David Horne were Park’s evening successes. Good luck to Madeira in the semi-final against Seaton.
Sadly, we ended the week being thwarted by the weather once more. We welcomed lovely Starcross to Phear Park, and the match began in decent conditions, but it was not to last. The rain came down and kept doing it, and the match had to be abandoned after 8 ends.
Finally, our Open Day on Saturday bore some fruit, with 2 prospective new members. We look forward to seeing them at our next Club afternoon this Friday.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 2nd June 2019
Phear Park loses out in the Exmouth derby game.
A visit from friends and neighbours Madeira saw them win on all 4 rinks on 28th May, with an overall score of 42-68. It was an enjoyable afternoon in spite of the result, most of the rinks being closely fought, with 3 of the rinks being decided by just 2 or 3 shots.
There were mixed fortunes in the men’s over 60s league, with both the A and B teams securing 2 points. The A team were away at Feniton where honours were shared. Our winning triple of Brian Summers, Rod Davidson and skip Mike Ebdon won 17-14.
The B team lost out by a single shot in the match at Uffculme overall, with John Horne, Roland Heale and skip John Dill being the successful rink.
Sadly, the C team returned empty handed from Seaton, losing both rinks with an overall score of 30-48.
Happier times awaited in the first round of the Foxlands trophy, where rinks of Brian Summers, John Dill, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson; and Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson, Mike Ebdon and skip David Evans gave a fine performance, with wins of 21-17 and 23-15 respectively.
The week concluded with a visit by Tiverton BC, who took the honours on an initially dank and drizzly afternoon, in a 5 rink friendly 77-87 although Park did win on 3 rinks.
The successful rinks were Sue Smith, Rick Tatchell and skip John Anderson (13-9); John Horne, Margaret Ratcliffe and skip Rod Davidson (22-12); and Liz Nelson, Roland Heale and skip David Horne (16-15).
A special mention for the losing rink of Kay Beresford, Peter Burch (a late replacement, seconded from kitchen duties) and skip Brian Summers, who came back from being 3-15 down at tea, to losing by only 2 shots at the end, 18-20. What was in that tea?
Finally, Saturday 8th June is our Open Day, where the opportunity to try out the game is there for all. Refreshments are provided, along with information and coaching, so “come on down” as someone famous used to say!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 26th May 2019
A welcome return to form in the men’s over 60s league, as all 3 Park teams gain maximum points.
The A team triples of Brian Summers, David Adams and Rod Davidson, and Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson and David Evans (skip) won 23-7 and 21-8 respectively to take maximum points in a home game against Axminster.
The B team travelled to Culm Vale, and secured an overall win of 33-27. Park’s successful triples were John Dill, John Whyte and Simon Weclawek (skip); and Peter Burch, Roland Heale and David Horne (skip).
The C team first had a rearranged fixture at Hemyock, coming away with the 8 points following a 43-34 score line with the 2 triples of Mike Fowler, Patrick MacAulay and Tony Dealler (skip); and Mike Killoran, Peter Sydenham and Bob Baker (skip) winning 21-20 and 22-14 respectively. They were not so successful in their next fixture. The long trip to Wellington in Somerset saw them lose both triples, going down 19-58 overall.
The first round of this season’s Top Club competition saw Park entertain Sidmouth on 23rd May. Park’s John Dill won the 2 woods singles match 22-13, with Mike Ebdon winning the 4 woods single 21-8. Brian Summers and Rod Davidson won the pairs leg 18-15, and the triple of Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson and David Horne won 16-7. The only defeat of the day came in the rinks leg (4 players) where Park went down 11-23. Round 2 beckons in June!
Finally, a friendly Saturday visit by Bradninch, which was played to a background of Festival music. Park were also on song, coming away with a fine win overall 83-55, with the rinks shared 2-2. Well done to the triples of Sue Smith, Ron Rooke and Simon Weclawek (skip) who won 17-14; and Bob Baker, Joan Cowing and John Dill (skip) who won 33-4.
A busy week to look forward to next, with more friendlies and over 60s league games.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 19th May 2019
The winning streak for Phear Park came to an abrupt end with successive defeats in friendly matches against Uffculme and Chudleigh over the weekend of 11th/12th May.
The visit by Uffculme saw them win by 1 shot 63-64 overall, and on 2 rinks, with 1 drawn. The lone successful rink for Park saw the triple of Marg Lock, Simon Weclawek and Rod Davidson (skip) win 23-12.
Away at Chudleigh, Park again only won one rink, losing the match overall 66-92. The triple of Margaret Ratcliffe, Rick Tatchell and Brian Summers (skip) bucked the trend, with an impressive scoreline of 22-10.
Winning ways were resumed however with a close win on a fine day at Feniton. Park took 3 rinks out of 5, winning overall by 91-88. The successful rinks were John Horne, Paul Beresford and Simon Weclawek (skip); Kay Beresford, Roland Heale and Brian Summers (skip), and John Dill, Mike Killoran and Brian Halsey (skip). There were cows!
In the mens over 60s league, the A team shared the rinks against Chardstock, where Park won by 1 shot, but lost the other rink by 2. A bad day at the office for the B and C teams though, who each lost on both rinks, thus ending up pointless. The B team were playing against Heavitree, whilst the C team who were hampered by only having 2 players on one rink, were playing Marina (Dawlish).
The week concluded with 2 weekend friendlies, first welcoming Heavitree to Park, where we lost on all 5 rinks, going down 65-94 overall. Finally, Park completed a poor week results wise, with an away trip across the river to lovely Starcross and District, where the warm welcome, the enviable club house and the decent weather made for an enjoyable afternoon, despite losing on 4 out of the 5 rinks. The lone winning rink was Kay Beresford, Roland Heale and David Horne (skip), and the overall score was 66-101 (ton up, as a certain snooker commentator may have said).
Here’s hoping for better results next week!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 12th May 2019
A short report this week, due to the absence of the reporters. Fear not though, we shall catch up next week.
Tuesday 7th May saw an away day to Babbacombe, a welcome return to a venue we had last visited some years ago.
Due to the warm welcome we received, we had a lovely afternoon, winning on 3 out of the 4 rinks.
Best of the day, was the rink of Kay Beresford, Paul Beresford and David Horne (skip) who finished with a score of 21-7. The other winning rinks were John Dill; Roland Heale and Brian Halsey (skip); and Peter Burch, John Anderson and David Evans. Park won overall by 71-43.
In the over 60s matches, The A team’s match against Topsham went down to the wire, with the very last bowl of the game, winning the end by half an inch.
The B team shared the rinks at Madeira, but won overall by 38-35.
Unfortunately the C team’s match against Hemyock B was rained off, and will be rescheduled.
Await news next week of the fixtures against Heavitree and Chudleigh to see if the winning streak continues!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 5th May 2019
The winning streak continues as Phear Park win in friendly matches at Exonia (Exeter) and Paignton.
At Exonia, 2 rinks were drawn and the other 2 shared. It was all down therefore to the triple of John Horne, Christine Hatchard and Peter Burch (skip) to secure overall victory which they accomplished with a splendid 27-6 score, which meant an overall win for Park, 72-56.
A cold and windy visit to Paignton saw Park winning 4 of the 5 rinks, with an overall score of 89-62. The successful Park triples were Marg Lock/Liz Nelson (shared the lead role), Brian Halsey and Brian Summers (skip); Margaret Ratcliffe, Peter Burch and David Evans (skip); Paul Beresford, Ralph (kindly loaned by Paignton) and John Dill (skip); and Mike Killoran, Rick Tatchell and Sarah Westacott (skip).
The first week of the Mens’ Over 60s League saw a promising start for the 3 Park teams that will compete this season.
The A team shared the rinks at Heavitree but secured the bonus points with an overall score of 36-27. The winning rink was Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson and David Evans (skip).
Against Tiverton West End the B team also shared the rinks with visitors Tiverton, but the winning triple of John Horne, Roland Heale and David Horne secured an overall win of 34-28.
To continue the theme, albeit with a different outcome, the C team also shared rinks at Phear Park. Our winning triple of Brian Halsey, Ron Rooke and Chris Silverthorne was not enough sadly to avoid a defeat overall against Feniton Falcons, going down 31-44.
Finally, the last fixture of the week on Sunday 5th May resulted in another fine victory, with Park winning on all 4 rinks against visitors Upton Park from Torquay, with an overall score of 73-39.
The winning triples were Marg Lock, Tony Dealler and Rod Davidson (skip); Rick Tatchell, Roland Heale and Sarah Westacott (skip); Sue Smith, Brian Halsey and Brian Summers (skip); John Horne, Joan Cowing and David Adams (skip).
Here’s hoping for brighter weather and more good bowls next week.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 28th April 2019
For once, Bank Holiday Monday was blessed with good weather and Phear Park took full advantage, with a good turnout for the first club Bank Holiday Drive. The best result of the day came from the triple of Rick Tatchell, Paul Beresford and Rod Davidson (skip).
Our first friendly of the season followed on Tuesday (23rd April) when Park welcomed Ottery St Mary. The afternoon proved to be a satisfying start with a clean sweep for Park, winning on all four rinks with an overall score of 77-49. The most successful rink was the triple of John Anderson, Joan Cowing and Rod Davidson (skip) with a score of 22-10. The other winning triples were Mike Killoran, Simon Weclawek and Sarah Westacott (skip), Margaret Ratcliffe, Tony Hanson and John Dill (skip) and finally, Christine Hatchard, Bob Baker and Brian Summers (skip).
Sadly our friendly against Topsham on 25th April had to be called off due to Topsham’s waterlogged green. Hopefully this fixture can be rearranged for later in the season.
Storm Hannah did not stop our match against visitors Belmont on 27th April. Park won on 3 of the 4 rinks, resulting in an overall winning score of 61-54. The winning triples were Peter Birch, David Adams and Rod Davidson (skip), Sue Smith, Joan Cowing and David Horne (skip), and John Horne, Roland Heale and Sarah Westacott (skip)
The week concluded with a trip to Honiton, where the rinks were shared 2-2, but resulting in a win overall for Park with a score of 67-62. The winning rinks were Margaret Ratcliffe, Rick Tatchell and Bob Baker(skip) who won by 18 shots, and Kay Beresford, Ron Rooke and Rod Davidson(skip).
With the men’s over 60s leagues starting next week to look forward to, it has been a great start to the season, albeit with a long way to go!
Paul and Kay Beresford
PHEAR PARK BOWLS – PRESIDENT’S DAY
The cold and windy weather did not dampen the spirits of the Phear Park bowlers as the traditional start of the season began last Sunday 14th April with President’s Day. Our new President Peter Burch looked resplendent in his chain of office, as he opened the season by sending down the first wood, On a heavy green there followed a round robin triples competition, using a yardstick format (all bowls within a yard of the jack scores), which was won by Rod Davidson (skip), Rick Tatchell and Christine Hatchard with a score of plus eleven.
The club welcomed several new members for what hopefully will be an enjoyable and successful season.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 25th July 2022
The week at Phear Park started out with a cancelled fixture at Budleigh due to the extreme weather. Phear Park were all set to play, but several of the Budleigh bowlers felt it was too hot to play. On Tuesday we entertained Exonia with four teams. This fixture can change dramatically depending on who is playing due to the number and ability of some Exonia players. Luckily, we managed to secure a win with the scores being 70 to Phear Park 60 to Exonia.
On Saturday our players travelled to Chudleigh where we lost overall with a score of 74 to Phear Park and 91 to Chudleigh. The best team on the day from Phear Park was John Horne, Rick Tatchell and John Robins.
Finally, Hatherleigh came to Phear Park on Sunday and as the club was struggling to make up the numbers, we lent them two subs and eventually managed to run out with a win of 61 to Phear Park and 49 to Hatherleigh. The best team on the day were Nigel Oates, Heather Salter and Rick Tatchell
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 17th July 2022
The last week has seen changing fortunes at Phear Park. On Thursday evening our team went to Feniton to play in the semi-final of the Top Club. Sadly, we lost overall with only one of the rinks winning, but we were at least pleased to have progressed as far as we did.
On Saturday we travelled to St Thomas Bowling Club in Exeter and played on a very parched green. At half time the scores were fairly equal, but as they say “it all changes after tea”. Luckily for Phear Park we found the lines on a very difficult surface and recorded a fantastic win with a score of St Thomas 46 Phear Park 80. The rink with the highest score was John Horne, Mike Killoran and Sarah Westacott.
Finally, on Sunday a team from Pinces Gardens in Exeter came to Phear Park, the result was a loss by 3 points overall to Phear Park. There was some slight controversy on one rink with insufficient ends being played but, as always, we accepted the fact that this was a friendly match and look forward to another week in the sun at home and away.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 9th July 2022
It has been another busy week at Phear Park with lovely sunny weather and the greens bowling faster than ever.
On Thursday evening Phear Park hosted Chardstock in the Top Club. This is an inter club competition where we play over five rinks with a variety of singles, pairs etc. Phear Park managed to win by winning on 3 rinks and losing on 2. We now go to play Feniton in the semi-final.
On Saturday we hosted the Centenary Cup and this was started in 2011 to celebrate our 100th anniversary and this year we had visitors from as far afield as Chudleigh and Newton Abbot. The winners were Chudleigh with a score of plus 24 with two Phear Park teams tying for second scoring plus 10.
Finally, we took 4 triples to Pinces Gardens in Exeter on Sunday with the hosts winning 66 to 52. Phear Park only had one winning rink which was Sue Smith, Brian Phaby and skip John Robins. We look forward to playing them again at home next weekend.
Our picture shows the Club President Liz Nelson presenting the Centenary Cup to Chudleigh on Saturday afternoon.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 2nd July 2022
Report in the Exmouth Journal.
Report for Week Ending 12th June 2022
The week started with an away trip to Paignton and as I am sure you were all aware, the weather had been changeable and Tuesday was no different. We played a friendly fixture on five rinks which Phear Park won with an excellent score of 91 - 66. Fortunately, the day stayed fine but the threat of rain was ever present.
Thursday saw a slightly different match with two teams playing home and away simultaneously. One team of four went to Honiton whilst the second team stayed at home in the Foxlands Cup. Sadly, the team in Honiton were narrowly beaten and although the home team won, we were unable to achieve an overall victory. Star of the show at home was Simon Weclawek who played skip and kept us in the game on several occasions.
Finally, we played another competition on Saturday, the Axon Cup. This involves six teams coming from other clubs around Exeter and East Devon. Six teams from Phear Park then match the visitors to play a series of five games each comprising of four ends. The difficulty is that each of these games are played on different rinks and the winner is the team with the best overall points difference. This year the runners up came from Heavitree with plus 17, but the overall winners were a Phear Park Team scoring plus 18. The players were Shirley Parker, Rick Tatchell and John Dill. Shirley was a guest player from Heavitree playing in place of our Club Captain Margo Allen and as luck would have it she beat her husband who was in the runner up team from Heavitree.
Our picture shows the winning team being presented the cup by our President Liz Nelson
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 5th June 2022
It has been another fairly quiet week at Phear Park. We were due to play Seaton away, but it was decided that due to parking difficulties in Seaton with the Platinum Jubilee Celebration, we would move the fixture to Phear Park.
The match was due to be four triples, but unusually Phear Park had more players willing to play so we played a fifth rink with one team representing Seaton. The game went very well, even though we were playing under the threat of thunderstorms. Phear Park won the overall match with a very credible score of 89 – 66 with all four of the rinks against Seaton winning their respective matches and with the best score of 21 - 7 going to Simon Weclawek, Jen Derbyshire and John Horne.
Just a brief reminder that our open day is Saturday 18th June beginning at 10.00 and all are welcome.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 30th May 2022
It has been a slightly more difficult week at Phear Park. Twelve players travelled away to North Tawton on Tuesday where it was a close fought match, but eventually the hosts won by 6 points 62 - 56. The best score for Phear Park on the day was a 13 all draw with the other three teams each losing by 2 points. On Saturday we entertained a team from Bradninch, but we were unable to make full use of the home advantage and the guests won by 66 - 54.
Coming soon is the Phear Park Open Day on Saturday 18th June, which starts at 10.00 and runs through into the afternoon. This is a date for your diaries. This is a chance for anyone to come along and have a go at lawn bowls. We often have people looking over the hedge when we are playing - well now it’s time to come in and have a go! Phear Park is a small friendly club with just over thirty members and we are currently offering half price membership for the first year, along with three free coaching sessions and a try before you buy chance to see if bowls is for you. We hope to see some of you for a chance to try bowling for fun.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 23rd May 2022
Last week Phear Park played away to Feniton, the match was affected by rain which was forecast towards the end of the game and did in fact come in during the last two ends. Feniton won by a margin of 65 – 44 with Margo Allen’s team scoring the best result for Phear Park at a respectable 14 all draw.
On Saturday 21st the club set off for an away day to Truro, stopping at Jamaica Inn for coffee and then on to a perfect sunny day in Cornwall. The score was a remarkable 111 to Phear Park against 80 to Truro but that didn’t really matter. Everyone enjoyed the a great day out finished with a traditional cream tea (cream on first of course) then back home with a special thanks to a guest triple from Madeira who helped us to put out six successful teams.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 15th May 2022
We have had a week of mixed fortunes, first up was a trip all the way to the seafront to play local rivals Madeira. All I can say is well done to Madeira, we managed to win on one rink but overall it was a comprehensive victory for Madeira by 82 points to 42, well done and thank you for an enjoyable afternoon.
Next up we had a visit from Heavitree, this was a very closely fought contest played at our home ground. Phear Park managed to win by a slim margin 87 points to 85.
The last match of the week was away again this time to Culm Vale. The afternoon was changeable and we had some scattered showers but also the lead changed many times. As often happens it was all very different after tea with Phear Park winning by a total of 84 points to 57. One of the rinks came back from 3 - 8 down to win 22 - 9.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 9th May 2022
Phear Park welcomed Culm Vale Bowls Club for a recent match and with Culm Vale playing in the new colourful kit and Phear Park all in white, it was slightly reminiscent of the 2003 Rugby World Cup.
Scores were equal at half time and Sarah Westacott played the last shot (Jonny Wilkinson style) to secure a 66-62 victory for Phear Park.
The Men’s Over 60s at Sidmouth did not go to plan, with the A Team losing. However, we came back with a win by the slimmest margin against Uffculme, 63-62. Amazing, when there are 162 points on offer but very often teams will score only one point in each round. Uffculme had the youngest player I have seen to date at just 11 years of age but he played a very good game and we wish him well for the future.
The last match of the week was away to Chudleigh, which unfortunately ended in a heavy loss of 55-88.
Mike Killoran
Report for Week Ending 26th September 2021
More trophies for the already overcrowded mantelpiece of Rod Davidson, as Phear Park internal competitions came to a close.
First up was the Dick Mann triples, a round robin competition over a total of 18 ends. Rod skipped Nigel Oates and Joan Cowing to an overall shot difference of plus 14 to narrowly beat John Anderson, Mike Killoran and Sarah Westacott who finished with a score of plus 13.
In the John Tucker Trophy, a mixed singles straight knockout competition, Rod competed against Mike Killoran in a thrilling final that needed an extra end to decide the winner. Rod again came out on top, taking the trophy by 10-9.
With several cancellations, the only friendly to be played was an away match to Sidmouth. Sadly, Park lost on all four rinks, going down 53-89 overall.
Finally, the season came to an end with the traditional Captain's Day, in honour of this year's captain, Margo Allen. The day comprised of 3 matches; two rinks (teams of 4) and 1 triple. The yardstick format, where every bowl within a yard of the jack scores a shot, was won by John Anderson, Rod Davidson, Joan Cowing and Bryan Stone with a score of plus 10. Runners up on a score of plus 7 were Nigel Oates, John Whyte, Simon Weclawek and Sarah Westacott.
The day and season were completed with a traditional cream tea.
The club wishes to thank this year's Captain Margo Allen for what has been a strange and difficult year. Thanks also to the members of the committee who kept our ship afloat, and to all our members who came and competed in the various competitions and matches, making some sort of season possible.
We hope to see you all again next season.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 12th September 2021
Last Tuesday saw six teams of triples compete for the Peter Nelson Memorial Shield. This is an internal competition held annually in honour of club stalwart and several times Captain, Peter Nelson.
This year the shield was won by Sue Smith, Paul Beresford and David Horne, with a score difference of + 15. There followed a presentation of the shield by Liz Nelson to the victorious triple. The match, which was played in glorious weather, was followed by a well earned fish and chip supper in the clubhouse.
In other news, Park visited Uffculme for a mixed triples friendly. Park were grateful for the loan of a player, John Snell to complete their side. There followed a very enjoyable and close game that resulted in a narrow defeat for Park of 62-60. Our triple of Nigel Oates, John Snell and Sarah Westacott won 23-17, whilst the triple of John Horne, Carolyn Hallett and David Horne drew 14 all.
Sadly, the scheduled match at home against Feniton was called off by the visitors due to lack of players.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 12th September 2021
The weather was kind to our Final’s Weekend, enabling all Phear Park's internal competition finals to be played on time. So, on to the men's competitions.
Rod Davidson is our 2021 men’s overall champion. He beat Simon Weclawek 21-10 to regain the trophy, winning it for the second time. Rod and Simon also contested two further competitions with Rod winning both, the Garbutt Knott by 21 to 7, and the Handicap by 21 to 6.
Simon did not come away completely empty handed though, as he won the Captain's Trophy, beating Paul Beresford 21 to 15.
The Men’s Over 70s competition was won by Rod Davidson in his closest match of the weekend, coming from behind to beat Bryan Stone by one point. Final score was 21 to 20.
The Men’s Pairs trophy was won by Rod Davidson and John Robins who beat Simon Weklawek and Peter Burch 20-9.
The Ladies Championship this year was won by Sarah Westacott who beat Jen Derbyshire 21-15. Sarah also beat Jen in the Ladies Handicap by 21-15. Sarah went on to beat Sue Smith in the 2 wood Margaret Marsh Cup final, 16-12. To complete a splendid weekend for her, Sarah also won the Mixed Pairs, partnered by John Anderson, and the 3 wood Challis Cup against Margo Allen who conceded with the score at 18-4.
Congratulations to all our winners!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 5th September 2021
Phear Park welcomed Gordon Short, who is celebrating his hundredth birthday by visiting various bowling clubs in Devon, raising money for Devon Air Ambulance by playing a member of each club. To date, Gordon has already raised £3,500 of his £5,000 target. At Park, Gordon played 5 ends against our club President Peter Burch, and won by 6 shots to 4. Phear Park were pleased to make a donation to his cause, and wish him well in his future matches.
In the over 60s league, the A team won overall 34-26 at Exeter’s Belmont where our triple of Peter Burch, Dave Adams and Rod Davidson were convincing victors, 21-11.
At home to Madeira however, the team lost on both rinks, each by just the one shot.
Sadly, the B team also lost on both rinks away to Bradninch.
Park fared better in a friendly, also at Bradninch, winning on all but one rink, with a total score of 61-53. Nigel Oates, Margo Allen and Mike Ebdon (17-11), Liz Nelson, Roland Heale and David Horne (15-14), and John Horne, Joan Cowing and Sarah Westacott (18-11) secured the victory.
With a busy Finals Weekend to come, which we shall be reporting on next week, that will only leave several traditional matches with which to wrap up this season for Park.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 29th August 2021
Two friendly matches to report this week, both at home. Visits by Budleigh Salterton and Seaton resulted in close overall shot victories for Park.
Against Budleigh, rinks were shared 2-2 but the winning triples of Nigel Oates, Jen Derbyshire and Rod Davidson (26-13), and Sue Smith, Rick Tatchell and Simon Weclawek (25-14) helped secure a 80-70 victory.
Rinks were also shared against Seaton, but Park just squeaked in for the win 64-63. The winning triples were David Dowden, Jen Derbyshire and Simon Weklawek (19-11) and Nigel Oates, Brian Halsey and Sarah Westacott (26-9).
Phear Park looks forward to the visit of Gordon Short on 31st August, who at the splendid age of 100, is in the process of visiting a number of clubs across Devon, raising money for the Devon Air Ambulance. He is an ex-President of Bowls Devon with sons who now play at County level too. Gordon served with distinction in the war and was awarded the Burma Star. He will play 5 ends against Phear Park President Peter Burch. Park will make a donation to the cause.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 15th August 2021
Victory for Phear Park in the Axon Cup!
The Cup is an annual mixed round robin triples competition played over a total of 20 ends, competing against teams this year from Belmont, Heavitree (both Exeter clubs), Topsham, Budleigh Salterton and Madeira.
The Park triple of Rick Tatchel, Brian Halsey and John Robins were this year’s winners with an overall shot difference of plus 13.
In a home friendly against Madeira, Park won 3 of the 4 rink triples to achieve overall victory by 82-41 points.
The successful triples were Paul Beresford, Joan Cowing and skip Simon Weclawek; Sue Smith, Jen Derbyshire and skip Dave Adams (20-14); and the Captain’s rink of John Barwick, Rick Tatchell and skip Margo Allen (21-6).
Moving on to the Over 60s League, the A team won on one rink but lost on the other to Madeira E. Park’s successful triple of Rick Tatchell, Dave Adams and Mike Ebdon were 17-14 winners, but this was not enough to prevent an overall 6 shot loss, 37-31.
At Ottery St. Mary, the B team gained 6 points with a win against their D team. The Park triple of John Dill, John Whyte and Bob Baker secured an emphatic 23-7 win in a thrilling 32-27 overall victory.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 15th August 2021
Devon Masonics made their annual visit to Phear Park for a friendly, albeit with a depleted team due to a car breakdown en route!
The rinks of Liz Nelson, Margo Allen, Roland Heale and skip David Horne; and Sarah Westacott, Nigel Oates, Brian Halsey and skip Simon Weclawek won 16-13 and 20-13 respectively. This was augmented by the triple of Sue Smith, Rick Tatchell and John Robins who scored 3 shots on the final end, securing a 14 all draw, leading to an overall win for Park 50-40.
The over 60s A Team had a good win against Seaton B, with the triples of Peter Burch, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson; and Rick Tatchell, Simon Weclawek and skip Mike Ebdon securing maximum points.
Against Belmont B, Parks B team could only win on one rink, with John Dill, John Whyte and Bob Baker taking the honours. Sadly, their 16-12 win was not enough for an overall score win.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 10th August 2021
On an overcast but thankfully dry day, Phear Park was finally able to hold its President’s Day. Club President Peter Burch oversaw an internal competition of mixed rinks and triples matches, with the winning team being the one with the highest score difference. With a score of plus 16, this year saw the rink of Nigel Oates, John Whyte, Joan Cowing and skip Rod Davidson taking the honours and the wine!
In a rearranged friendly at Chudleigh, Park could only win on one rink in a 71-60 defeat. The success of the day was the triple of Sue Smith, John Anderson and Rod Davidson who won 22-15.
Unfortunately, the weather got the better of a scheduled friendly at Starcross, cancelled due to rain.
Park's internal competitions are progressing at a pace, after the triple whammy of Covid restrictions, the road closure and the appalling weather. With a bit of luck and a following wind (but NOT rain), we may even get them finished before the end of the season!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 26th July 2021
Phear Park's historic run in the Top Club competition sadly ended in a comprehensive defeat against an excellent Seaton team in our semi-final. Seaton will now go on to play Madeira in the final. Never mind, there's always next year.
In a friendly match at Exeter Pinces Gardens, Park went down 3 rinks to 1, losing 52 shots to 73 overall. The triple of John Dill, John Anderson and Sarah Westacott was our sole win of the day with a score of 21-16.
A visit to neighbours Budleigh Salterton for another friendly did provide success however, with two fighting comebacks and a further rink leading from the start resulting in an overall victory of 90-61. The triple of Kay Beresford, Brian Halsey and Rick Tatchell came back from 0-9 down to win 18-16, and the triple of Nigel Oates, Paul Beresford and Sarah Westacott came back from 3-14 to eventually win 20-18. Sue Smith, Jen Derbyshire and David Adams completed the victory with an impressive 34-3 win.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 19th July 2021
Phear Park makes history!
For the first time in the club's history, Phear Park have reached the semi-final stage of the Top Club competition. This is a multi-discipline annual event, contested by a number of clubs, including Honiton, which is where the Park team recorded a thrilling 3-2 win. Victories in both the 2 wood and 4 wood singles matches, and again in the triples secured the win. Seaton will be the venue for our semi-final, which is scheduled for 22nd July.
Rain showers and road closures in Phear Park combined to make fixtures hard to manage, but two friendly matches were completed, both against Exeter St Thomas.
It was a home win for Park, thanks to the performances of Nigel Oates, Joan Cowing and Rod Davidson who won 25-5; Jen Derbyshire, John Anderson and Simon Weklawek (22-8); and Peter Burch, Rick Tatchell and Brian Halsey who drew 15 all.
An overall win for Park 79-48.
Fortunes were reversed in the away fixture with St Thomas running out 81-53 winners in scorching heat, with all four Park triples losing
Paul and Kay Beresford
End of Season Report - September 2020
It’s been a strange sort of season, with no inter club matches but, by following government and Bowls England guidelines, bowls did return to Phear Park in a limited way. Thanks are due to members who worked hard to ensure that an internal “umbrella” competition took place, with games being played 3 times a week from July to September. In addition there were 3 one day competitions and our traditional last match of the season, Captains Day.
The Umbrella was a triples and pairs competition, with teams drawn on the day. It proved to be very successful, with regular attendance by a majority of our membership taking part. Points were awarded for winning teams, with a bonus point going to the team winning by the largest margin. The competition was won by Mike Ebdon who finished on 44 points. Rod Davidson was runner up on 41 points, with Rick Tatchell finished third on 34 points.
First to be played of the one day competitions was the Peter Nelson Memorial Shield, which has become a regular fixture for the club. Three triples matches played over 18 ends resulted in victory for John Horne, Rick Tatchell and skip Mike Ebdon with a score of plus 9 shots. David Dowden, John Robins and skip Rod Davidson were runners up with plus 3 shots.
Next up was the Dick Mann Triples competition. This was won by David Dowden, Peter Burch and skip Sarah Westacott, with a score of plus 13 shots. Runners up were Sue Smith, John Robins and skip Roland Heale who finished on plus 7.
After a few hiccups dodging the rain, the John Tucker competition finally got going on Friday 25th September. This is a straight knock out competition for singles. Rick Tatchell came through two tough matches to beat Simon Weclawek 9-3 in the final.
Finally, the traditional Captains Day match saw the official end of the season. Matches were played using yardsticks, with every bowl within one yard scoring a point. Overall, victory went this year to the Vice Captains team, which triumphed over the Captains team 166 – 161. The best triple of the day however was won by a Captains side of Kay Beresford, Rick Tatchell and skip Rod Davidson with a score of 53 – 34.
Sadly no cream tea to end the festivities, but an enjoyable end to what has obviously been a difficult year. Lets hope that we can get back to normal play by next season, and we send best wishes to the wider bowling community. All at Phear Park will also be very grateful if “our” fox finds a new home thus winter.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Report for Week Ending 22nd September 2019
The Peter Nelson Memorial Shield was contested for the second time at Phear Park on the 17th September this year. The round robin competition was inaugurated last year by Liz Nelson, in memory of her husband Peter, who was a club stalwart and Captain. This year, the Shield was won by the rink of Mike Killoran, John Robins, Simon Weclawek and Sarah Westacott who finished with a score of plus seventeen shots. Runners up were Rick Tatchell, Liz Nelson/Marg Lock (who shared a game), John Anderson and David Evans with a score of plus six. In third place came the quartet of Sue Smith, Mike Passmore (both in their first season), John Horne and Brian Halsey with plus one.
The last friendly matches of the season began with a visit to Uffculme, where despite a good win for the Park triple of John Horne, Christine Hatchard and skip Brian Summers (24-9), Park went down to an overall defeat 54-84.
At home to Paignton however, winning triples of Marg Lock, John Anderson and skip Peter Burch; Mike Passmore, Joan Cowing and skip Brian Summers; and Sue Smith, John Robins and skip Tony Hanson saw Park to an overall 79-70 win. The triple of Margaret Ratcliffe, Mike Killoran and skip Brian Halsey drew their match 11 all.
Alas, a further fixture away to Sidmouth resulted in losses on all rinks for Park.
Our season came to a traditional conclusion with Captain’s Day, a fun afternoon (with cream tea!) consisting of four triples matches using yardsticks, where every bowl within a yard of the jack scores a point. This year’s winners with a score of 64 and a points difference of plus 13, were John Horne, Joan Cowing and skip Mike Ebdon. The runners up were Kay Beresford, Rick Tatchell and skip Rod Davidson with a score of 54 points and a difference of plus 9 shots. Both these teams troubled the scoreboards, which only go up to 49 shots!
Well, that’s it for this season, where did the time go? All the best to Phear Park players who are continuing indoors during the winter, at different venues. Paul and Kay however are going into hibernation as far as bowls is concerned, and will be watching some Rugby (starting with the World Cup of course), Football and Athletics.
Here’s to next April and the 2020 season!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Finals' Weekend 2019
It’s a Summer’s summer at Phear Park bowls, as Brian Summers concludes a great personal season.
He has won all four of the Park’s internal competitions that he contested at this years’ Finals Weekend, to add to the Dick Mann Triples title he had already won, together with John Dill and Joan Cowing. They won this round robin triples competition with a fine score of plus 15 shots.
Brian started the weekend with an exciting Men’s Handicap final against Rod Davidson, the defending champion. The two men were on fine form, and the lead changed hands several times, until both men reached 23-23. This was enough for Brian to take the title, with his handicap of 2, leaving Rod still 4 shots short with his handicap of 6.
Brian went on to play Tony Hanson later in the day, for the Captain’s Trophy, a competition for men who have not won this trophy previously. Brian won the match 21-7.
Next day, Brian was in action again, first winning the men’s’ pairs, where he was ably abetted by Mike Passmore. They beat the pair of Rick Tatchell and Simon Weclawek 17-12. This was a first trophy for Mike, in his first season with the club. Well done!
Finally for Brian came the Men’s Singles Championship where he was competing against Simon Weclawek again. He concluded his personal clean sweep with a 21-8 victory. Congratulations to our new Club Champion!
Now for the matches that Brian was not involved with. In the Garbutt Knott, Rick Tatchell put aside his disappointment with the Pairs result, going on to win the final against David Adams. Rick had to come from behind twice, showing great tenacity against his more experienced opponent, to win 22-16, taking a 4 on the final end. He ‘never gave up’!
All was not lost for David Adams however, as he had a fine win in the Over 70s final against John Whyte, coming out on top 21-5.
On to the Ladies Finals, just the two this year. In the Margaret Marsh Cup which is a 2 woods competition, a very close competitive match played in great spirit, saw Sue Smith and Kay Beresford finish the final end 15 all, which meant an extra end was played. Congratulations to Sue Smith who got the final shot to win the cup. This is Sue’s first season, so very well done to her!
Finally, on a sunny Sunday morning, the same two players contested the Challis Cup, a 3 wood competition, although with a different result. This time it was Kay Beresford who came through to take the Cup 19-9. What a difference an extra wood can make!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 1st September 2019
The Phear Park over 60s A team take the Division 4 title, with a maximum 8 point home win against Crediton B.
The winning triples of Brian Summers, David Adams, skip Rod Davidson and Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson and skip Mike Ebdon won 14-12 and 19-7 respectively to take the match and title 33-19. Sadly the club finances will not run to an open top bus celebratory parade through the town, so it will have to be the land train instead! Congratulations go to Captain Rod Davidson and the A team squad of Brian Summers, David Adams, Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson, David Evans, Gordon Cooke and Mike Ebdon for this triumphant season. Take a bow gentlemen!
The B team finished their campaign with two points at Ottery St Mary, with the winning triple of John Dill, John Whyte and skip Simon Weklawek scoring 24-13. Overall however Park lost by one shot – Ottery took the remaining 6 points which secured promotion to Division 5 for them.
The C team finished with an unexpected 8 points without bowling a wood, when Uffculme defaulted because they were unable to field a full team.
In friendly mixed triples, Park lost away to Bradnich and at home to Seaton. At Bradnich, Peter Burch, Roland Heale and skip Brian Summers, and John Horne, John Robins and skip Sarah Westacott won their matches 17-13 and 27-11 respectively. Overall though, Park lost 62-66.
At Seaton, John Robins, Christine Hatchard and skip Brian Summers were the only Park success, with a close 16-13 win. Seaton won overall 67-51.
With the over 60s league completed, and only 5 friendly matches remaining the close of the season will soon be upon us. Before then though, the finals of the club’s internal competitions will take place over the coming weekend (7th/8th Sept), which should produce some close encounters. Spectators are very welcome to watch the various finals which will start at either 10am or 2pm on both days. Entrance is free!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 25th August 2019
Promotion guaranteed for the men’s Over 60s League A team.
A fine overall win at Madeira 39-33 ensured at least second place in Division four, whilst an overall home game in the last game of the season against Crediton will see the Park side finishing top of the league (no pressure then)! The winning triple of Brian Summers, Rod Davidson and skip Mike Ebdon secured the six points with an excellent 27-14 win. Well done!
The B team were also triumphant, taking maximum points in a home win to a good Wellington side. Triples of Paul Beresford, John Whyte, skip Simon Weclawek and John Horne, Roland Heale, skip John Anderson won 19-12 and 14-11 respectively, to take a fine 10 shot overall victory.
Alas, the C team were heavily defeated on both rinks against Sidmouth to remain firmly rooted to the foot of Division 8.
It was a busy week for friendlies with matches against Topsham, Madeira and Budleigh. Although only winning 2 of the 5 triples against Topsham, Park ran out overall winners 78-73, thanks to an overwhelming 32-2 win by Sue Smith, John Anderson and skip Simon Weklawek. The captain’s rink of John Horne, Paul Beresford and skip Sarah Westacott came back from 5-13 down after 13 ends, to claim victory 15-14, with a winning shot on the final end!
The reverse away to Madeira, where Park only lost on one rink, with one drawn but narrowly lost overall 65-68. It was however a great afternoon with our friends and neighbours, with the winning triples being Mike Passmore, Mike Killoran, skip Sarah Westacott, and Kay Beresford, Peter Burch , and skip Brian Summers, who came from behind after tea to win 17-15.
Only one triple won at Budleigh, on what was a very hot and sunny day, with Sue Smith, Roland Heale and skip John Pope taking 3 shots on the final end to win 22-21. Alas, not enough to prevent an overall win to neighbours Budleigh 73-61. Never mind, the company was convivial, and the after match drinks went down very well, especially when we found out about the cricket! That Stokes can play for us anytime he wants!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 18th August 2019
Phear Park welcomed touring side Devon Masonics to the first friendly following our Annual Tournament. Although Devon Masonics brought just two rinks, a good afternoon was had by all, with one win apiece, but an overall win for Phear Park 41-24. Our rink of Margaret Ratcliffe, Mike Passmore, Mike Killoran and skip Brian Summers ran out 29-4 winners.
Next up was a visit from Babbacombe, for what proved to be a closely fought match, with Park shading an overall win 58-55, although the visitors were victorious on 2 rinks, with one rink drawn. However, a fine win by Park triple Mike Passmore, Mike Killoran and skip Sarah Westacott made the difference, with a score of 21-7.
Okehampton were the visitors for a 4 mixed triples encounter, which also turned out to be a tight match, although this time Park lost overall 50-55. Sue Smith, Paul Beresford and skip John Robins drew their match 14-14, and the triple of John Horne, Doreen Pope and skip Peter Burch provided Park with their lone victory on the day, scoring 16-8.
All 3 over 60s teams were in action, with the A team continuing an excellent season so far with a win against Okehampton, taking maximum points. The triple of Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson and skip David Evans won 18-10, and Brian Summers, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson beat the Okehampton triple 26-9. Keep it up lads!
Mixed fortunes for Phear Park B, with a narrow defeat on one rink, but a fine win by the triple of John Horne, John Dill and skip John Whyte of 21-6 ensured an overall victory of 35-25, and a valuable 6 points.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Tournament Report - Week Ending 11th August 2019
A week of mostly fine weather and some excellent bowling saw that the 40th anniversary of the Phear Park Open Tournament was a great success.
The week started on Sunday 4th August with the mixed triples. This is an all-day round robin competition, with 20 competing teams playing a total of 4 matches each, playing 9 ends per match. The worthy winners were Viv Kirkland, Peter Davis and Janet Griffiths, all from Okehampton Bowling Club.
The men’s pairs followed, which this year was won by Norman Owens and Frank Prince from Babbacombe Bowling Club, who needed a deciding extra end in the final to defeat Leighton Burston (Ottery St Mary BC) and Richard Hardman (Exonia) to take the title 15-14.
Success for Phear Park followed, with Sarah Westacott and Margaret Ratcliffe winning the round robin ladies pairs, with an impressive score of plus 20.
More success for Sarah Westacott followed, when she teamed up with Rick Tatchell for the mixed pair’s competition. The final was played in deteriorating weather, and was against fellow club members Margaret Ratcliffe and Rod Davidson. Sarah and Rick won 21-8 to claim the title.
Moving on to the men’s singles competition, Phear Park player Brian Summers had a splendid win, beating several fine players along the way, culminating in a final against the defending champion “Storming” Norman Owen, which Brian won 21-12.
Many congratulations to all the winners, and competitors from Phear Park and elsewhere, for contributing to a fine Tournament. Many thanks also to the many club members who assisted in the organising and running of the Tournament with their commitment and hard work, with a special mention for Bob Baker and helpers, who kept the kitchen running all week, providing hot meals, snacks and drinks to keep everyone going.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 4th August 2019
The men’s over 60s triples league dominates this week, with all three teams in action as the business end of the season approaches.
The A team lost their top of the league position, gaining just 2 points away to Marina (Dawlish) and then again at home to Feniton Eagles. Brian Summers, Gordon Cook and skip Mike Ebdon were the success at Marina, with a fine 27-9 win and Rick Tatchell, Gordon Cook and skip Mike Ebdon won a closely fought match 22-20 against Feniton.
The B team fared better, with two 6 point wins against Bradnich and Uffculme. John Dill, John Whyte and skip Simon Weclawek won 22-12 at Bradnich, helping to secure an overall 32-29 win, whilst Paul Beresford, John Dill and Simon Weclawek had a comfortable win against Uffculme, where Park won overall 36-27.
The C team, who only had one fixture during the week, lost overall to Seaton but the triple of Patrick McCahearty, Peter Sydenham and skip Tony Dealler gained 2 points with their win of 16-13.
No friendlies to report this week, as they give way to Phear Park’s annual Open Tournament, which began last Sunday. This is the 40th such tournament, and reports of the action will be coming next week!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 28th July 2019
With an away game at Exeter St Thomas cancelled, there are four mixed triple friendly matches to report on this week, with a 50% success rate for Phear Park.
A home win against neighbours Budleigh Salterton saw the winning triples of Bob Baker, Christine Hatchard and skip Rod Davidson; Doreen Pope, Mike Killoran and skip Brian Summers help secure an overall win for Park 65-63.
The other overall victory was at home to Hatherleigh, where Park won all 4 triples. Well done to John Horne, Roland Heale and skip Brian Summers; Sue Smith, Rick Tatchell (captain of the day) and skip John Anderson; John Robins, Margaret Ratcliffe and skip Rod Davidson; and Marg Lock, Mike Passmore and skip Simon Weclawek who secured the spoils with an emphatic 71-48 overall win.
On to a home game against Exonia (Exeter) where the triple of John Horne, Christine Hatchard and skip Brian Summers; and a rink of Margaret Ratcliffe, David Downden, Ron Rooke and skip Simon Weclawek both narrowly won. Unfortunately defeat on the remaining rink meant an overall loss to Park of 45-51.
Our friends from Chudleigh took two of the five triples, with one being drawn. Again, defeat on the remaining rinks saw Chudleigh safely to an overall win of 92-69. The triples of Kay Beresford, Sue Smith and skip Brian Halsey; and Liz Nelson, Paul Beresford and skip David Evans were Park’s winning sides, with Margaret Ratcliffe, Roland Heale and skip John Anderson drawing their match.
In the men’s over 60s league, only the B team secured points with an overall 32-28 win at home to Culm Vale. The triple of John Horne, Roland Heale and skip John Pope was victorious with a good 24-11 win.
Following on from some very good recent results, the A team sadly were carpeted at Axminster on both rinks, and it was no better for the C team who also lost on both rinks at home to Wellington (Somerset). Hopefully, better days ahead with the important fixtures coming up this week!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 21st July 2019
The over 60s A team score another 8 point victory in their bid to win the league (Division 4). Gordon Cook, Tony Hanson and skip Mike Ebdon, and Brian Summers, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson secured an impressive 61-17 overall home victory, winning on both rinks against Chardstock.
The B team however suffered a heavy loss at Heavitree to come away pointless.
The C team also lost on both rinks at home to Hemylock but then shared the spoils away at Marina (Dawlish), with 1 rink each, and an overall score of 36 all. The triple of Peter Sydenham, Patrick McCahearty and skip Tony Dealler were Park’s winning rink.
In friendly matches, Pinces Gardens (Exeter) won fairly comfortably at Phear Park, winning 3 of the 4 rinks, and 88-47 overall. Rick Tatchell, Doreen Pope and skip Simon Weclawek were the sole successful triple of the day, winning by 24-16.
A better day followed at North Tawton, with an overall victory to Park of 83-49. David Downden, John Anderson and skip Mike Ebdon; Bob Baker, John Dill and skip Brian Summers were the winning rinks, with John Horne, Mike Killoran and skip Rod Davidson drawing their match 14-14.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 7th July 2019
The mens’ over 60s league dominates our weekly report this time, with the A team maintaining top position of Division 4, following an 8 point win against Heavitree. The triples of Rick Tatchel, Tony Hanson and skip David Evans, and Brian Summers, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson were triumphant with an overall score of 39-24. A great performance, especially as David Evans’ triple was 15-5 down after 12 ends, but came back to take 14 unanswered shots on the last 6 ends to win 19-15!
The B team had two fixtures, with mixed results. Paul Beresford, Peter Burch and skip John Anderson, and John Dill, John Whyte and skip Simon Weclawek beat Madeira D on both rinks, and overall by 35-25. Against Tiverton West End however, they could only gain 2 points, coming from the triple of John Dill, John Whyte and skip Simon Weclawek winning 28-11. Unfortunately the other Park triples went down 30-8, resulting in a losing overall score of 36-41.
The C team had even less fortune at Feniton (Falcons), losing on both rinks, going down overall 23-49. Perhaps Park should try giving their teams a cool name!
There was only one friendly played this week, and visitors Exeter St Thomas took all 4 rinks to win the match 46-81.
Heres hoping for better luck next time, and long may the days be dry (it can rain overnight if it wants)!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 30th June 2019
Sunny days return to Phear Park, with the weather finally producing lovely bowls-playing conditions.
Whilst an away match to Seaton was abandoned after 14 ends, fixtures against Sidmouth, Heavitree (Exeter) and Okehampton were completed in glorious weather and friendly rivalry. The sun certainly shone on the triples of John Horne, Roland Heale and skip Simon Weclawek; Margaret Ratcliffe, Mike Killoran and skip John Anderson; Peter Burch, Joan Cowing and skip Brian Halsey, who secured an overall 72-56 win at home against Sidmouth. The other triple of Christine Hatchard, Ron Rooke and skip Bob Baker drew on their rink, so almost achieving a clean sweep for Park.
A visit to Heavitree followed, where Park lost overall by 98-77, albeit winning two of the five triples. The successful rinks were Sue Smith, Rod Henderson (kindly loaned by Heavitree) and skip Rod Davidson (17-15), and a superb performance by John Horne, Roland Heale and skip David Evans (23-7).
Okehampton next, where their annual dog show next door provided interest for some (ok, me) before the match. Only the Captain’s triple of John Horne, Margaret Ratcliffe and skip Paul Beresford (Capt) were successful, with Park’s other three triples going down to a very good Okehampton side. The hosts won overall by 76-56.
In the over 60s league, both the B and C teams lost at home to Ottery St Mary and Uffculme respectively. However, the A team had a more successful afternoon at Crediton, winning on one rink by 5 points, and drawing on the other. The winning rink was Brian Summers, Rod Davidson and David Adams, whilst the Park rink that drew were Gordon Cooke, Peter Ebdon and Tony Hanson. This rink were, at one stage, 1-17 DOWN, but fought back to secure the draw, and so contributed to the A team garnering another 7 points, which means that, at time of writing, they are TOP of Division 4! Very well done.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 16th June 2019
The weather struck again at the start of the week, with our aptly named Umbrella internal competition rained off .
We start therefore with the excellent results of Park’s three over 60s teams. A heavy green and long jacks saw the A team take the honours, and maximum 8 points with an impressive 54-19 overall win at Okehampton. The triples of Brian Summers, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson, and Rick Tatchell, Mike Ebdon and skip David Evans triumphant with scores of 34-5 and 20-14 respectively.
The B team also secured maximum points with a 39-24 score at Crediton. John Dill, John Whyte and skip Simon Weclawek (20-16), and Peter Burch, Roland Heale and skip David Horne (19-8) were the winning triples.
At home against North Tawton the C team almost made a clean sweep of maximum points but narrowly missed out, going down on one rink by a single shot. The triple of Patrick MacCahearty, Mike Killoran and skip Bob Baker achieved victory on their rink 17-14, to secure an overall win of 30-28, gaining 6 points.
The annual event of the Axon Cup, a multi-club round robin triple competition, took place on an unusually sunny Saturday afternoon. The event was won by Heavitree with a score of + 16, who had been asked to play for Phear Park, due to a shortage of home side players. The runners up spot was shared by the home side and Topsham. Park’s triple of Mike Passmore, Joan Cowing and skip Rod Davidson finished on +7.
Many thanks to the teams from Madeira, Exonia (Exeter), Budleigh Salterton, Topsham, Belmont (Exeter) and Heavitree (Exeter) for taking part.
The week’s fixtures concluded with a trip to the English Riviera for a friendly game of triples against the Torquay club (not West Ham) of Upton Park. Phear Park won the day, winning 3 of the 4 rinks, and by an overall score of 58-54 (despite a Phear Park skip putting the scores on the wrong sides of the scorecard, which initially confused everyone!).
The winning triples were Liz Nelson, Rick Tatchell and skip Peter Burch (16-13); Sue Smith, Paul Beresford and skip Margo Allen (17-12); Kay Beresford, Mike Ebdon and skip Brian Halsey (15-13).
Unfortunately the second round of the Foxlands Trophy against Seaton was postponed due to rain, and is re-scheduled for Friday 21st June.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 9th June 2019
The weather got the better of the first fixture of the week against Babbacombe who were visiting for a five rink friendly triples match. This was an especial disappointment, given that the game was to be the first visit by Babbacombe for several years. Happily, we can now report that the fixture has been rearranged for August, when we will hope for kinder weather!
Moving on to the men’s over 60s league, all three teams lost their matches overall. The A team lost to Marina B (from Dawlish) 23-32, but the triple of Rick Tatchell, Gordon Cook and skip Mike Ebdon secured 2 league points with a 19-12 win on their rink.
No joy at all for the B and C teams, who lost on all rinks against Bradninch A and Broadclyst respectively.
A closely fought second round tie against Madeira in the Top Club Trophy was up next, and ended with our neighbours winning 3 rinks to 2.
The rink of Simon Weclawek, Peter Burch, Mike Ebdon and David Evans, and the triple of David Adams, Tony Hanson and David Horne were Park’s evening successes. Good luck to Madeira in the semi-final against Seaton.
Sadly, we ended the week being thwarted by the weather once more. We welcomed lovely Starcross to Phear Park, and the match began in decent conditions, but it was not to last. The rain came down and kept doing it, and the match had to be abandoned after 8 ends.
Finally, our Open Day on Saturday bore some fruit, with 2 prospective new members. We look forward to seeing them at our next Club afternoon this Friday.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 2nd June 2019
Phear Park loses out in the Exmouth derby game.
A visit from friends and neighbours Madeira saw them win on all 4 rinks on 28th May, with an overall score of 42-68. It was an enjoyable afternoon in spite of the result, most of the rinks being closely fought, with 3 of the rinks being decided by just 2 or 3 shots.
There were mixed fortunes in the men’s over 60s league, with both the A and B teams securing 2 points. The A team were away at Feniton where honours were shared. Our winning triple of Brian Summers, Rod Davidson and skip Mike Ebdon won 17-14.
The B team lost out by a single shot in the match at Uffculme overall, with John Horne, Roland Heale and skip John Dill being the successful rink.
Sadly, the C team returned empty handed from Seaton, losing both rinks with an overall score of 30-48.
Happier times awaited in the first round of the Foxlands trophy, where rinks of Brian Summers, John Dill, David Adams and skip Rod Davidson; and Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson, Mike Ebdon and skip David Evans gave a fine performance, with wins of 21-17 and 23-15 respectively.
The week concluded with a visit by Tiverton BC, who took the honours on an initially dank and drizzly afternoon, in a 5 rink friendly 77-87 although Park did win on 3 rinks.
The successful rinks were Sue Smith, Rick Tatchell and skip John Anderson (13-9); John Horne, Margaret Ratcliffe and skip Rod Davidson (22-12); and Liz Nelson, Roland Heale and skip David Horne (16-15).
A special mention for the losing rink of Kay Beresford, Peter Burch (a late replacement, seconded from kitchen duties) and skip Brian Summers, who came back from being 3-15 down at tea, to losing by only 2 shots at the end, 18-20. What was in that tea?
Finally, Saturday 8th June is our Open Day, where the opportunity to try out the game is there for all. Refreshments are provided, along with information and coaching, so “come on down” as someone famous used to say!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 26th May 2019
A welcome return to form in the men’s over 60s league, as all 3 Park teams gain maximum points.
The A team triples of Brian Summers, David Adams and Rod Davidson, and Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson and David Evans (skip) won 23-7 and 21-8 respectively to take maximum points in a home game against Axminster.
The B team travelled to Culm Vale, and secured an overall win of 33-27. Park’s successful triples were John Dill, John Whyte and Simon Weclawek (skip); and Peter Burch, Roland Heale and David Horne (skip).
The C team first had a rearranged fixture at Hemyock, coming away with the 8 points following a 43-34 score line with the 2 triples of Mike Fowler, Patrick MacAulay and Tony Dealler (skip); and Mike Killoran, Peter Sydenham and Bob Baker (skip) winning 21-20 and 22-14 respectively. They were not so successful in their next fixture. The long trip to Wellington in Somerset saw them lose both triples, going down 19-58 overall.
The first round of this season’s Top Club competition saw Park entertain Sidmouth on 23rd May. Park’s John Dill won the 2 woods singles match 22-13, with Mike Ebdon winning the 4 woods single 21-8. Brian Summers and Rod Davidson won the pairs leg 18-15, and the triple of Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson and David Horne won 16-7. The only defeat of the day came in the rinks leg (4 players) where Park went down 11-23. Round 2 beckons in June!
Finally, a friendly Saturday visit by Bradninch, which was played to a background of Festival music. Park were also on song, coming away with a fine win overall 83-55, with the rinks shared 2-2. Well done to the triples of Sue Smith, Ron Rooke and Simon Weclawek (skip) who won 17-14; and Bob Baker, Joan Cowing and John Dill (skip) who won 33-4.
A busy week to look forward to next, with more friendlies and over 60s league games.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 19th May 2019
The winning streak for Phear Park came to an abrupt end with successive defeats in friendly matches against Uffculme and Chudleigh over the weekend of 11th/12th May.
The visit by Uffculme saw them win by 1 shot 63-64 overall, and on 2 rinks, with 1 drawn. The lone successful rink for Park saw the triple of Marg Lock, Simon Weclawek and Rod Davidson (skip) win 23-12.
Away at Chudleigh, Park again only won one rink, losing the match overall 66-92. The triple of Margaret Ratcliffe, Rick Tatchell and Brian Summers (skip) bucked the trend, with an impressive scoreline of 22-10.
Winning ways were resumed however with a close win on a fine day at Feniton. Park took 3 rinks out of 5, winning overall by 91-88. The successful rinks were John Horne, Paul Beresford and Simon Weclawek (skip); Kay Beresford, Roland Heale and Brian Summers (skip), and John Dill, Mike Killoran and Brian Halsey (skip). There were cows!
In the mens over 60s league, the A team shared the rinks against Chardstock, where Park won by 1 shot, but lost the other rink by 2. A bad day at the office for the B and C teams though, who each lost on both rinks, thus ending up pointless. The B team were playing against Heavitree, whilst the C team who were hampered by only having 2 players on one rink, were playing Marina (Dawlish).
The week concluded with 2 weekend friendlies, first welcoming Heavitree to Park, where we lost on all 5 rinks, going down 65-94 overall. Finally, Park completed a poor week results wise, with an away trip across the river to lovely Starcross and District, where the warm welcome, the enviable club house and the decent weather made for an enjoyable afternoon, despite losing on 4 out of the 5 rinks. The lone winning rink was Kay Beresford, Roland Heale and David Horne (skip), and the overall score was 66-101 (ton up, as a certain snooker commentator may have said).
Here’s hoping for better results next week!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 12th May 2019
A short report this week, due to the absence of the reporters. Fear not though, we shall catch up next week.
Tuesday 7th May saw an away day to Babbacombe, a welcome return to a venue we had last visited some years ago.
Due to the warm welcome we received, we had a lovely afternoon, winning on 3 out of the 4 rinks.
Best of the day, was the rink of Kay Beresford, Paul Beresford and David Horne (skip) who finished with a score of 21-7. The other winning rinks were John Dill; Roland Heale and Brian Halsey (skip); and Peter Burch, John Anderson and David Evans. Park won overall by 71-43.
In the over 60s matches, The A team’s match against Topsham went down to the wire, with the very last bowl of the game, winning the end by half an inch.
The B team shared the rinks at Madeira, but won overall by 38-35.
Unfortunately the C team’s match against Hemyock B was rained off, and will be rescheduled.
Await news next week of the fixtures against Heavitree and Chudleigh to see if the winning streak continues!
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 5th May 2019
The winning streak continues as Phear Park win in friendly matches at Exonia (Exeter) and Paignton.
At Exonia, 2 rinks were drawn and the other 2 shared. It was all down therefore to the triple of John Horne, Christine Hatchard and Peter Burch (skip) to secure overall victory which they accomplished with a splendid 27-6 score, which meant an overall win for Park, 72-56.
A cold and windy visit to Paignton saw Park winning 4 of the 5 rinks, with an overall score of 89-62. The successful Park triples were Marg Lock/Liz Nelson (shared the lead role), Brian Halsey and Brian Summers (skip); Margaret Ratcliffe, Peter Burch and David Evans (skip); Paul Beresford, Ralph (kindly loaned by Paignton) and John Dill (skip); and Mike Killoran, Rick Tatchell and Sarah Westacott (skip).
The first week of the Mens’ Over 60s League saw a promising start for the 3 Park teams that will compete this season.
The A team shared the rinks at Heavitree but secured the bonus points with an overall score of 36-27. The winning rink was Rick Tatchell, Tony Hanson and David Evans (skip).
Against Tiverton West End the B team also shared the rinks with visitors Tiverton, but the winning triple of John Horne, Roland Heale and David Horne secured an overall win of 34-28.
To continue the theme, albeit with a different outcome, the C team also shared rinks at Phear Park. Our winning triple of Brian Halsey, Ron Rooke and Chris Silverthorne was not enough sadly to avoid a defeat overall against Feniton Falcons, going down 31-44.
Finally, the last fixture of the week on Sunday 5th May resulted in another fine victory, with Park winning on all 4 rinks against visitors Upton Park from Torquay, with an overall score of 73-39.
The winning triples were Marg Lock, Tony Dealler and Rod Davidson (skip); Rick Tatchell, Roland Heale and Sarah Westacott (skip); Sue Smith, Brian Halsey and Brian Summers (skip); John Horne, Joan Cowing and David Adams (skip).
Here’s hoping for brighter weather and more good bowls next week.
Paul and Kay Beresford
Match Report - Week Ending 28th April 2019
For once, Bank Holiday Monday was blessed with good weather and Phear Park took full advantage, with a good turnout for the first club Bank Holiday Drive. The best result of the day came from the triple of Rick Tatchell, Paul Beresford and Rod Davidson (skip).
Our first friendly of the season followed on Tuesday (23rd April) when Park welcomed Ottery St Mary. The afternoon proved to be a satisfying start with a clean sweep for Park, winning on all four rinks with an overall score of 77-49. The most successful rink was the triple of John Anderson, Joan Cowing and Rod Davidson (skip) with a score of 22-10. The other winning triples were Mike Killoran, Simon Weclawek and Sarah Westacott (skip), Margaret Ratcliffe, Tony Hanson and John Dill (skip) and finally, Christine Hatchard, Bob Baker and Brian Summers (skip).
Sadly our friendly against Topsham on 25th April had to be called off due to Topsham’s waterlogged green. Hopefully this fixture can be rearranged for later in the season.
Storm Hannah did not stop our match against visitors Belmont on 27th April. Park won on 3 of the 4 rinks, resulting in an overall winning score of 61-54. The winning triples were Peter Birch, David Adams and Rod Davidson (skip), Sue Smith, Joan Cowing and David Horne (skip), and John Horne, Roland Heale and Sarah Westacott (skip)
The week concluded with a trip to Honiton, where the rinks were shared 2-2, but resulting in a win overall for Park with a score of 67-62. The winning rinks were Margaret Ratcliffe, Rick Tatchell and Bob Baker(skip) who won by 18 shots, and Kay Beresford, Ron Rooke and Rod Davidson(skip).
With the men’s over 60s leagues starting next week to look forward to, it has been a great start to the season, albeit with a long way to go!
Paul and Kay Beresford
PHEAR PARK BOWLS – PRESIDENT’S DAY
The cold and windy weather did not dampen the spirits of the Phear Park bowlers as the traditional start of the season began last Sunday 14th April with President’s Day. Our new President Peter Burch looked resplendent in his chain of office, as he opened the season by sending down the first wood, On a heavy green there followed a round robin triples competition, using a yardstick format (all bowls within a yard of the jack scores), which was won by Rod Davidson (skip), Rick Tatchell and Christine Hatchard with a score of plus eleven.
The club welcomed several new members for what hopefully will be an enjoyable and successful season.
Paul and Kay Beresford