It's that time of year again and for the 10th year Jean John and Ken Bellamy have organised the very popular Short Mat Bowls Tournament in aid of Ty Hafan, the children's hospice of Wales.

This year, it took place on Saturday when 68 pairs took part from all over Pembrokeshire and some from West Glamorgan. The tournament for the Joan Proctor Shield was held at Heatherton's bowling stadium, where 16 short mats were used for the tournament. Sixteen groups of four or five pairs started playing a round-robin at 9.30 and this was completed by 2 pm. The winner of each group then went to the knock-out stage. Ty Hafan representative, Mr. Robert Taylor then thanked everyone for their time and generosity. He explained that £2.5million was required annually to run the hospice and that it all came from donations and events such as this tournament. The raffle, where all the prizes were donated by supporters of Ty Hafan, was then drawn; the number of prizes being an amazing 57, ranging from food hampers and cuddly toys to liquid refreshment! In addition, this year for 'a bit of fun,' a Dutch Auction was held, the prize being a day at Range Rover. The last 16 soon became the last four. The semi- finals were Steve Williams and Gregg Gwyn against Marley and Eileen Hughes, and Jono Gladstone and John Lewis against Lee Daniels and Luke Haddon. After excellent games, the final was between Steve and Gregg and Jono and John. The final outcome was a win for Jono and John, Jono having played a final excellent weighted shot, putting the jack and bowl together in the ditch to which the opponents had no opportunity to counter. The Joan Proctor Shield, trophies and cash prizes were then presented to the winners and runners-up by Charles Proctor. The day was a great success and raised a record amount of £3,027. Well done everyone, but special thanks to Ken and Jean who have toiled selflessly for 10 years. Jean and Ken have presented Ty Hafan with £23,625 during this time, an achievement to be very proud of. It was, with regret, that they announced it would be their last year as it was becoming more difficult with the passing of the years - their words not mine! Thanks again!