The countdown has begun. It seems years ago now since we packed everything away for the winter, and then suddenly it is upon us once again - the opening of the green for the summer months and the start of another, hopefully, very warm, sunny and enjoyable bowling season. The opening of the green tomorrow (Saturday) will follow more or less the same lines as previous years. You can also pay your membership fees to the treasurer in the pavilion, from 12.30 pm onwards, but do try to get there a little earlier, otherwise George is snowed under with everyone wishing to pay at the same time. Better still, why not nip up and see him today (Friday) and pay your money; it will save a lot of bother tomorrow. Club president John Dugmore will officially welcome everyone to the club, before handing over to the representative of the council who will perform the onerous task of bowling the first wood. Thereafter, weather permitting, and with the agreement of the groundsman Chris Jenkins, there will be a spider. If you have not witnessed one of the these before, it is well worth coming along to watch. Just imagine about 50 woods all heading for the same spot (well nearly), all delivered at the same time; it's quite hilarious to see. Again, all things being equal etc., there will follow the usual limited ends game, just to get everyone into the right frame of mind for the busy season ahead. The men's league games start in earnest earlier this year than normal, because of course the club tour is going a week later than normal, which is great; it means that we will have a game under our belts before taking on our hosts in Gloucestershire. The dress for the opening is the usual blazer, white tops and grey bottoms, with club tie. Obviously, if you don't have a club blazer, you can still come along, so get those woods polished and I will see you on the green tomorrow. First team training/trial, meanwhile, will be held on Saturday, April 23, commencing at 2.30 pm.
MERRON ATKINS