Pembroke Dock Bowling Club opened its green for its 92nd season last Saturday, with the honour of rolling the silver jack being performed by club member Richard Hissey.

Richard has a busy season ahead of him as he is county president for 2017, succeeding Paul Blayney, of Saundersfoot..

Members watched the ceremony under a clear blue sky - a complete contrast to last year when for the first time in living memory the ceremony was abandoned due to inclement weather.

During his speech, chairman Alan Yea, wished Richard a successful year in office and opined that he would be an excellent ambassador for the club. Alan also paid tribute to the small army of volunteers who had worked so hard during the past few weeks to get the playing area and clubhouse ready for the season.

Before being invited to roll the jack by club president, Mrs. Di Davies, Richard said how proud he was of being honoured with the presidency. He wished the club every success and paid tribute to his late parents, Ted and Jenny Hissey, who were long serving club members.

Tomorrow (Saturday), a Captain’s team led by Hugh Williams will play a President’s team captained by Di Davies.

Club captain for 2017 is 54-year-old local builder Hugh Williams, who took up bowls six years ago after being cajoled into the game by the late Les Davies - a legendary figure among the Pembrokeshire bowling fraternity. Hugh played both football and rugby in his youth and took to bowls like a duck to water, quickly making his way into the first team where he plays third - he is also a formidable singles player.

Hugh is confident that the club will enjoy a successful season under his captaincy and hopes that by September there will be some silverware to adorn the splendid trophy cabinet.

Hugh Colley

(Press Officer)