SAD PASSING

Bowlers throughout the county were stunned to learn of the sad passing of Arthur Ormond just before the New Year. A stalwart of the Tenby club, despite his stern features lay a wicked sense of humour, and a wealth of knowledge of the Tenby area.

It was always a pleasure to bowl against Arthur. I am sure that his musings of past events in the area, have caused many a player to lose concentration on the game, so intent were they in listening to his tales.

A well known personality in the area, Arthur was true gentleman. He will be sorely missed, I am sure, by all who knew him.

NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATIONS

The person who came up with the idea of opening the club on New Year's Eve had an inspired idea. Although things were looking rather quiet about 10 pm, suddenly the people began arriving in droves.

A marvellous free buffet 'A La Margaret and Vi', smashing company and, of course, the odd 'drinkie poo' - just to be sociable you understand - and things went swimmingly. The atmosphere was excellent, and with the weather doing its best to drown the crowds, the best place to be was in the warmth of the pavilion. We even had a free viewing of the fireworks display, without the discomfort.

Of course, certain people went over the top. Certain bowlers have no memory whatsoever of events after midnight, thanks to over-indulgence. When he refuses a free drink the following morning, you just know that he had taken too much the previous evening.

We did have a slight panic just after midnight, when Beryl Lewis and Doug Silcox went missing. However, just as a search party was about to be sent out, they appeared, and I can categorically state that they were miles apart; Beryl was powdering her nose and Doug, believe it or not, was having a cup of tea. Mind you, the two people least worried about their disappearance were Peter Lewis and Rene Silcox.

It was great to be able to welcome our friends from the Tenby club and visiting bowlers from the Aberdare region who called in and ended up entertaining us before heading off for their own party. All in all, a great night, and one I am sure that will join the other occasions to enter the club calendar of 'must attend events'.

NEW YEAR'S DAY EVENTS

I am sure there were plenty of hangovers abounding, but still plenty of support for our two entrants in the annual New Year's Day Swim. Neville Ruff and Oliver Dugmore were taking part in the swim in aid of charity and getting the admiration of their fellow bowlers into the bargain.

For the first time, the club 'put on' free home-made soup and fresh rolls. Whilst there were worries that not enough people would attend, they soon went as the tables filled up rapidly. Again there were welcome visits from our friends from Tenby Bowls Club and Dot and Graham from Pembroke Dock Club.

The bar was also opened, I think mainly to supply some 'hair of the dog' to those who looked slightly fragile. As stated previously, even when Roy Pring won the bottle of whisky and then kindly went round offering to fill the glasses of everyone, a certain 'young' bowler turned green and refused; his reputation is now ruined.

Many thanks to the ladies who made the soup and then with their trusty helpers fed the throng. Once again the club ladies proved that they are the best when it comes to catering.

John, Mike and Don did sterling work behind the bar throughout the whole two days, despite Roy trying to be the new 'cocktail barman'.

And guess who the fashion guru of the club is, with a 'kinky' finger ring that had all the ladies saying they wanted one just the same? A quick clue - he is the club's youngest member! Personally, I reckon he could do himself damage if he forgot he was wearing it.

COACHING COURSE

Last season's schools coaching programme, in conjunction with Saundersfoot CP School, was an outstanding success, with 16 youngsters signing up to join the club. This year, the school has asked if they could increase the sessions to three a week instead of two.

Whilst the coaches are more than willing to do these sessions, it would be better if more coaches were available to help out. To this end, David Jones, the area coaching co-ordinator, has stated that he would be willing to come back to the club and run another coaching course for anyone interested in taking part.

This is normally over a couple of days and is very enjoyable and, of course, once you pass the course you are able to help others. Anyone who would like to become a coach is asked to contact Dave Robb within the next couple of weeks.

NEW MEMBERS

Whilst talking about coaching, the club would like to extend a warm welcome to any person interested in joining the club, whether experienced bowlers or complete beginners. The first three lessons are completely free to new bowlers and the club has qualified coaches willing to help at times to suit the individual.

If you are an experienced bowler, but a bit on the shy side, don't be, Saundersfoot is known as a friendly club; you will receive a warm welcome, so why not make the effort, you never know.

ANNIVERSARY PLATE WINNER

At the beginning of last season, the club had anniversary plates struck so that the members could celebrate its 40th anniversary with a memento. The plates were designed and made by the 'Glyn Coch' pottery and were brilliant.

Mr. R. Evans, of Glyn Coch, very kindly donated two 'large' copies of the plate to the club; one is on permanent display in the pavilion, while George Cavell held a 'draw' to win the other plate. He ran this throughout the season, whenever there was a gathering of members. Some people actually took to sneaking up the stairs whenever George was near. Anyway, he raised a goodly amount for club funds in the process.

The draw for the plate was held during the club lunch in the pavilion just before Christmas, and the winner was Brian Deeley. The committee would like to thank 'Glyn Coch' potteries for their kind donation.

WHIST EVENING

The first whist of the New Year and blimey wasn't it a freezer! Thankfully, the steadfast faithful did not let that put them off, and, although down to just five-and-a-half tables, another enjoyable evening was had.

Taking top honours was Mabel Whitaker, with Kath Sutcliffe a surprised first lady. Coming in as second lady was Rene Baggott. First gent was William Thomas, and Steve Dick scored his first 'big win' as second gent. The first half top score went to Bill Whitaker, and the second half top score went to Elsie Fryett. The booby prize was forced into the hands of Margaret Robb, whilst Robert Irvine proudly claimed the longest sitter.

The evening raffle prizes were won by M. Robb, J. Austin, S. Dick and E. Jones.

NARROW BIAS