Greenkeeper & Hon. Secretary.
Covid-19 Updates
Hi and we hope you are all well.
We have a new menu item in the members area where all Covid-19 related news and updates will be posted.
This is so that they are easier to find as activity increases which we all hope will be soon.
As they are behind a password you will need to be registered so if you haven't already done so please do so now. After all there's not much else going on at the moment. :-)
Any questions please use the contact us tab above, send us an email and we'll get back to you.
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Green Update
At this time of the year we would normally be letting club members know what state the green was in just prior to the start of the season. However, in these times of COVID-19, lockdown, self-isolation and social-distancing, Chris Shannon has been at the club on a regular basis on his own with his hands on the mower keeping the green in good shape, ready to be used as and when we have the chance to get on it. If Chris wasn't doing this work the green would obviously quickly deteriorate. Barry Green has also been there with paint brush in hand refreshing the rink markings on the slabs surrounding the green. Many thanks from the club to both of them.
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Green Opening
Due to the uncertainty caused by the Corona Virus the opening of the green is delayed until further notice.
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Coaching
Due to the corona virus epidemic all coaching is postponed until further notice.
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Corona Virus Update 21st March
Dear All
As promised we have now had some time to reflect upon the unprecedented events unfolding for us all together with the latest advice regarding the Coronavirus outbreak and made decisions on what action we need to take regarding our Bowls Club for the foreseeable months ahead. There is understandably doom and gloom across most communications and whilst we are committed to being realistic we are trying to be hopeful in looking forward where possible.
Bowls England and County Bowling:
By way of background, Bowls England has cancelled in their entirety all Competitions for 2020 and in effect suspended all organised play until the end of July. The Oxfordshire Bowls Association are following suit; County competitions have been cancelled for 2020 and we expect news in the coming days that all other Men’s and Ladies County play will be cancelled until further notice. The Men’s League Competition for 2020 has been cancelled.
It is of course difficult to maintain these competitions without having an early start in the season, so these decisions were inevitable.
Thame Bowls Club Fixtures and Club Competitions for 2020:
At this Stage we are cancelling all organised fixtures through to the beginning of June; a decision will be made over the next two months on any further action that needs to be taken. All Club competitions for 2020 have been cancelled, but if circumstances improve and we can get back on our Green by late Summer, we will organise some form of competitive play to celebrate the return.
The Green:
It is very difficult to “mothball” a bowls green without incurring longer term damage to the surface, and it is our aim to ensure it is playable for when we resume bowling. To this end, wherever possible we will be maintaining the green and a small group of members will continue to mow and service the green as long as we are confident personal safety will not be at risk. We will continue to employ Avonmore to carry out the heavy and professional treatment required to keep the green in good condition – they have already told us they are happy to continue.
Providing we can get the Green in the right condition to bowl, we will make a decision about whether we small group roll ups can be permitted.
Clearly we will follow Government guidelines and advice on social gatherings and interaction with others and more information will be issued once the emerging picture has been clarified.
The Club House Rebuild:
Completion of the project is now going to stretch into May at the earliest. The builder, Matt Hawes is already 2 men down and our architect is in isolation with his wife on medical advice because she is unwell, though hopefully not with the Virus.
Work to remove the scaffolding has been delayed which hampers further progress on the external structures.
Discussions are ongoing about the kitchen delivery date that has already been put back by two weeks to mid-April. No date has yet been set for a survey by the kitchen fitters; that will be triggered by the delivery date.
The bar area was surveyed on Thursday morning by Howdens who will be supplying the shelving units.
We are almost there with the colour plan encompassing the carpet choice, vinyl flooring, wall, skirting, architrave and door paints plus the colour and design of the toilet cubicles.
There are other issues outstanding that we are still working on like bar and kitchen area shutters, shed, landscaping and many others.
So we are making excellent progress with the Sports Club’s bright and shiny new building, but current events will now undoubtedly impact upon remaining aspects of the project.
Club Finance and Subscriptions:
We have discussed the thorny issue of finance and as everyone will realise we have already incurred costs for 2020 (the fixture booklets being one example) and as explained above we have ongoing costs and an as yet unfinished building to complete.
Our current decisions are as follows:-
Ø Fees already paid for Social Events now cancelled – unless individuals have indicated they wish to donate these funds to the Rebuilding fund, Ian is in the process of refunding this money to members.
Ø Competition Fees already paid – as above Ian will refund these fees unless you stipulate otherwise.
Ø County Competition Fees already paid – we are expecting these back from County in the coming weeks and if so, we will refund these to those few of us who have entered and already paid as above.
Ø Membership Fees – In the short-term we are not thinking of refunding Membership Fees and we will review the situation later in the year when we have greater clarity on whether we will be able to participate as a Club in any organised bowling at all this year. Initial thoughts are that we will review the finances towards the middle of the year and consider either partial refunds or the option of carrying part of this year’s subscriptions forward to pay for next year’s membership. If however members feel they wish to cancel their membership of the Bowls Club entirely at this point in time, we will refund the majority of their subscriptions in the coming weeks.
· TO FACILITATE ALL REFUNDS - As you would imagine, our Bowls Treasurer Ian is heavily engaged with Club finance tasks at the moment as well as being a key player in the Sports Club Rebuilding Project Committee and planning. To facilitate the return of all monies detailed above he will need details of your banking arrangements (account name, sorting code and account number please) and then the Club’s bank account signatories can set up these payments and release them to you directly using the Club’s on-line banking facilities. If you prefer payment by cheque, please bear with us because cheques will need to be written, passed on to another for second signature then posted.
Questions and ongoing Communication:
Clearly we will continue to send out communications whenever necessary and answer any other burning questions you may have that have not been addressed by this initial communication. We will continue to use the Website and the newsletters to update members – please make use of the website where you can.
Bill, Ian, Graham, Jill or Chris are very happy to deal with your calls and answer any questions you may have – remember this note is sent on behalf of your Bowls Committee as a whole – not just Ian who despatches the Group e mails on our behalf. Their email addresses appear above.
Finally and perhaps most importantly:
By its nature, many of our Bowls Club membership community can be regarded as in the high risk population group and it is important that we stay as safe as we can and look out for each other where possible, especially anyone we know who lives alone. Many of us will be looked after by neighbours, families and local helpers but if anyone is in need of help please contact anyone of your committee and we will do what we can to assist.
As we have shown in the past, we are a very resilient and resourceful group of individuals and hopefully we will all get together again before the end of the Season to celebrate our new surroundings and a very unworn and under-used Green.
As always, we are very grateful for your support and understanding. Please do keep in touch. Let's work together to support one another through these unusual times.
THAME BOWLS CLUB COMMITTEE
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Dates for your diary
Some dates for your diary and it would be great if I can start getting an early idea of your commitment especially to come to the Fund Raiser Quiz Night and the Pre-Season Social, details of which are below:
Pre-Season Forum - 11th March - 7pm start
At the Chinnor Rugby Club, Thame OX9 3PB
The proposed Agenda will be sent in the post to all members late Feb along with a Renewal Membership Form and Competition Entry Forms.
A lot of ground will be covered on the evening but as at last year’s event, all agenda items will be kept short and snappy so we will have plenty time to catch up with each other after the long winter break.
Please come along and learn what is planned for the season to come.
Clubhouse Fundraiser - Quiz Night - 20th March - 7pm
On behalf of the Sports Club, the Tennis Club have organised a Quiz Night at the Thame Barns Centre in Church Road OX9 3AJ to raise much needed and important funds for the rebuild.
There is a cash bar open from 7pm and a meal at 7:30pm.
To feed your brain you can look forward to a Lasagne with salad, followed by tray bake and toppings for dessert.
I hope we will be able to significantly support this event from within our membership (because we need all the money we can get for the rebuild)!!
You can book your place through me by email or post.
Pre-Season Social - 18th April - 7pm.
Our pre-season social will take place on Saturday 18th April between 7.00pm – 10.00pm
This will again be at the Thame Barns Centre, Church Road, Thame OX9 3AJ.
Tickets at £15 each are open to members and their guests.
There will be a two course buffet meal provided by caterers, including vegetarian options, plus a cash bar and live Jazz Trio.
Places can be reserved by contacting me, Ian Rutherford by email or post.
Ian Rutherford
Treasurer
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2020 Competition Rules - Clarifications and Alterations
Competition Rules – Clarifications and Alterations
1. Responsibilities of players
The underlying principles for arranging matches are that:-
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All players involved should aim to have their game scheduled for well within the final date for the round to account for bad weather, illness or other unforeseen reasons for delay.
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Prompt organisation and communication should be evident and by use of telephone messages, texts or emails, it should be quite possible to ensure allowances are made for holidays and other priorities.
So to avoid the common last minute rush to organise games before the due date, the following guide notes have been put together by the Competitions Committee.
The Challenger (the first named on the Competition Draw Sheet) is responsible for:
(a) Within 7 days of the start of the round of matches, the challenger must provide their opponent with four dates (including one daytime, one evening and one weekend) when the match could be played. If the first offer of dates is not forthcoming within 7 days and a mutually agreeable date cannot be negotiated within the time available, the Challenger is in danger of forfeiting the game.
(b) booking a rink
(c) arranging a marker
The Challenged bowler (the second named on the Competition Draw Sheet) is responsible for:
(a) If none of the offered dates are suitable, the challenged bowler must initiate a negotiation within 7 days to the dates that the challenger has offered to find a mutually acceptable date and time.
(b) The aim is to ensure all games are played as drawn, but if the challenged bowler does not respond to the offer of dates within 7 days and a mutually agreeable date cannot be negotiated within the time available, they are in danger of forfeiting the game.
2. Final Decisions in Competition Issues
In the case of any misunderstanding or disputed matter, the decision of the Competitions Secretary(s) shall be final
3. Pairs Matches
All pairs matches have beeen reduced to 18 ends
4. Trial ends
Trial ends should consist of no more than two ends of two bowls
5. Use of Rinks
Rinks one to six inclusive must be used in the draw for play
6. Dress Code
The club dress code for players and Markers must be adhered to for all competition matches
7. Markers
The role of the marker is to facilitate the flow of play but not to interfere
8. Substitutes
For matches other than singles, substitutes (of a similar ability as decided by the Competition Committee) may be used in mitigating circumstances at the exclusive discretion of the Competitions Secretary(s)
9. The Ladies Competitions
The Ladies Competitions that were dropped in season 2018 are to be reinstated but will be the responsibility of designated persons other than the Ladies Captain
10. The Victory Pairs
The Victory Pairs should revert to being a drawn handicap competition with designated leads and skips, to be determined by the Competitions Secretary(s) and a designated member of the selection committee.
11. The Walker Cup
The Walker Cup will be drawn at the same time as the other competitions but with a timetable for playing rounds that commences at the beginning of August and concludes at least one week before Finals Weekend. (This will mean that matches do need to be arranged as quickly as possible)
12. A New Two Wood Men’s Competition
A new two wood (21 ends) competition for men be initiated for season 2021 – to be designated “The Lightfoots Cup”
February 2020
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2020 Competition Dates
Thame Bowls Club - Competition Dates 2020
Draw 28/4
Preliminary Round to be played by 28th May
Round 1 to be played by 25th June
QF to be played by 23rd July
SF to be played by 20th August
Walker Cup – Rounds To Be Played During August
Preliminary Round to be played by 7th August
Round 1 to be played by 14th August
QF to be played by 21st August
SF to be played by 29th August
Finals Dates - Friday Sept 4th– Saturday Sept 5th(with Sunday Sept 6thallocated to be used if necessary at the discretion of the Competition Committee)
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Peter Desbrey and Ingrid Dale
Peter Desbrey
As you probably already know Peter Desbry passed away recently and his funeral will take place at Bierton Crematorium just outside of Aylesbury at 2 PM on 23rd December.
The full address of the crematorium is Cane End Lane, Bierton, Aylesbury HP22 5BH.
Peter was a very hard working member of Thame Bowls Club running the bar for many years and was also a very keen bowler. He will be sadly missed.
Ingrid Dale
It is with great sadness that I have to tell you that Ingrid passed away on Tuesday evening and all our thoughts go out to her husband Mel and her family.
Ingrid was a very active member of Thame Bowls Club being the Ladies’ Captain on the year that I joined.
Ingrid's funeral will be at Oxford Crematorium in Headington on 10th January at 3pm.
Bill Giles
Chairman Thame Bowls Club
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Clubhouse Rebuild progress
You can follow the rebuild project by clicking the Tab at the top of this page and then clicking on the link that says:
Photos HERE of the Clubhouse Rebuild project
If you then click on each photograph you will see a brief caption that gives you a little information about the progress being made.
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The Green Party
Some very familiar faces were busy again this sunny 29th November morning.
Thanks Ray, Jess and Chris for all your year-round hard work.
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Table Tennis at Scout HQ Southern Road
Hi Everybody,
Just a note to say that we have already started Friday Table Tennis sessions from 2pm to 4pm at Thame Scout HQ in Southern Road.
We play some Table Tennis within a range of mixed and dubious standard in a relaxed atmosphere! Not only do we have a quality table, but plenty of bats and balls as well - so come along and get some closed season exercise with a bit of fun included.
It's also a chance to have a natter with your fellow Club members, have a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit!
Do come along, everyone is welcome
Chris Shannon
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Annual Xmas Bingo
Despite the fact that we will not have a clubhouse this Xmas this event is still going ahead. It will be at Towersey Memorial Hall on Saturday 14th December at 7pm. There is no bar, so please bring your favourite beer or two, bottle of wine or bottle of coke with glasses and nibbles.
We would also like donations of prizes please of biscuits, wine or whatever you can spare either before the event (to the Duncans), at the AGM or on the night.
The cost to you will be only £5 for a book of bingo numbers.
We also plan to do the 200 Club Christmas draw that evening when the December prizes will be £500 and £100.
Please let Ron or Maire Duncan or any member of the committee know if you will be attending.
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Competition Honours
The Competition Honours tab has been updated with this seasons winners. Please have a look and if there are any errors please contact us.
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Summary of Week End games 2019
Summary of Week End Games 2019
Played 30 [ 2 cancelled by our opposition] 9 won 21 lost
64 club members played in Week End Games
Most Played: Alfred Jochum 23
Jane Kimber 23
Marion Keal 21
Top Rink: Jane Kimber 8
Graham Watson 6
Jesse Matthews 6
Best % Leonard Grimshaw 75% but only 4 games!!!
Jesse Matthews 46%
Graham Watson 37%
Jane Kimber 34%
Bowlers with top rink success in their first game for the week end side
Gini Williams
Roger Mackreill
Steve Balne
Terri Blackburn
Paul Youens
Best Home Made Cakes
Maire Duncan and Gini Williams
Best Savouries
Carsten Jochum [ although it is rumoured his mother made them?]
Derek Goodyear [ Frances influence?]
Best Sandwiches
Jane Kimber [ including edible flowers?]
Kevin Sharman with wraps, a nice change
BEST STRAWBERRIES
ME with a little help from Waitrose or M & S
Many thanks to all the 64 players who have supported me in my first season as Captain, it's been a pleasure to play with you and enjoy your company.
It's not the winning that counts, it's the taking part. Bulls**t, next year we will win more than we lose.
John Walker
18/9/2019
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Competition Finals 2019 - The Results
Competition Finals 2019 - The Results
Thursday 22nd August
Josey Cup Janet & Chris Shannon
Friday 23rd August
Ford Cup Jane Kimber & Maire Duncan
Victory Pairs Tony Adamson (substitute) & Paul Costin
Warwick Cup Jill Brooks & Bill Giles
Saturday 24th August
Honour Cup Jane Kimber
Two Wood Cup Jill Brooks
Michael Jones Cup Chris Shannon
Taylor Cup Geoff Roynon
Walker Cup Chris Shannon
Pomeroy Cup Jill Brooks
Coronation Cup Ken Calcutt
Sunday 25th August
Jubilee Handicap Paul Costin
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The Green is now closed
Dear All
Please note that the green is now closed.
There are no rink markers and we are treating the green, the surrounding ditch and borders.
It is most important that no one attempts to use the green for practice or walks on the grass because there is a danger it could then be damaged for next year.
Many thanks
Chris
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Friday Evening League Final Results and Table
In true Thame Bowls Club fashion the final Friday Evening Leagues matches were played on Wednesday 21st August. The results and final table are in the Friday Evening League section which can be found here.
The winners trophy will be presented, rather appropriately, on Friday the 20th at the Presentation Evening.
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Competition Finals Schedule 2019
Competition Finals 2019
Thursday 22nd August
5.00pm Josey Cup Janet & Chris Shannon v Val & Michael Sawyer
Friday 23rd August
5.00pm Ford Cup Jane Kimber & Maire Duncan v Janet Shannon & Caroline Walker
5.00pm Victory Pairs Mike Zakaszewski & Paul Costin v Vic Webb & Ken Calcutt
5.00pm Warwick Cup Doreen Penn & Thomas Tisbury v Jill Brooks & Bill Giles
Saturday 24th August Markers
10.30am Honour Cup Janet Shannon v Jane Kimber Bill Giles
10.30am Two Wood Cup Marion Keal v Jill Brooks Sharon Heafey
10.30am Michael Jones Cup Ken Calcutt v Chris Shannon John Walker
1.00pm Taylor Cup Kevin Sharman v Geoff Roynon Alfred Jochum
2.00pm Walker Cup Chris Shannon v John Coward Les Canfield
3.00pm Pomeroy Cup Jill Brooks v Jane Kimber Maire Duncan
3.00pm Coronation Cup Graham Watson v Ken Calcutt Gordon Taylor
Umpires Ron Duncan and Les Canfield
Sunday 25th August
10.30am Jubilee Handicap Paul Costin v Chris Shannon Graham Watson
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Presidents Day 2019
A number of pictures have been uploaded to the photo gallery. Don't forget you'll need to be registered and logged in to see them.
Any questions send us a message via the Contact Us page.
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Ladies v Men August 16th
The Ladies v Men annual match is on August 16th. Please either put your names on the list on the noticeboard or email Graham Watson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and let him know you want to be thrashed - if you're a bloke - or victorious if you're not.
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Thanks from BOL
The following message is from from Jeanette Berry - Secretary of BOL - to all involved in hosting the Quarter and Semi Finals of the Oxfordshire Ladies Pairs last weekend, when we witnessed some fine bowls being played.
“Please pass on my thanks to the committee (on behalf of BOL) at Thame Bowls Club for the excellent organisation, catering and hospitality that all bowlers and officials experienced on Saturday, both prior to and during the quarter & semi finals of the Ladies Pairs competition. Thank you for all the hard work that was put into making the day an enjoyable and successful occasion”.
The two winning pairs on the day (from Banbury Central and Oxford City & County) have qualified for the national ladies pairs held at Leamington Spa in August.
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Competition Results as at 24th July 2019
The latest round of competition results is now complete and the results can be found here.
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Paul Heafey Cup 2019
Next Tuesday 23 July, 24 new bowlers will start to play for the Paul Heafey cup with a further round on 30 July followed by the final on Tuesday 6 August.
We, at Thame Bowls Club, should all be very proud of the Development Team and others who have given their time and expertise every Tuesday to recruit and coach the new bowlers. I doubt if there is another bowls club in the county or indeed in the country who has put so much work and dedication to welcome all our new players and it is paying off by seeing so many encouraged to play in our friendly games.
The cup, in honour of Paul Heafey, will be played along similar lines to the President’s Cup on a four end basis.
The matches will start promptly at 6 pm, the bar will be open, the weather will be glorious, so please would as many members as possible come along to support our new bowlers and the coaches and helpers that have done so much to earn our respect.
Bill Giles OBE
Chairman, Thame Bowls Club
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Competition results so far
The latest round of the competitions are now complete and the draws have been updated.
Click here for the Mens Coronation Cup
here for the Men's Jubilee Handicap Cup
here for the Men's Walker Cup
here for the Men's Taylor Cup
here for the Men's Victory Pairs Cup
here for the Michael Jones Cup
and here for the Warwick Cup
Please don't forget that the quarter finals of all competitions need to have been played by the 24th July.
The updated draws will be put on the notice board in the clubhouse soon.
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Home Page Updated
We have updated the Home Page so please take some time to scroll down and check out Our Values which have been added.
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Purser Cup 2019
There are a few pictures from this years Purser Cup in the Photo Gallery.
In the final Chris Shannon, Tony Adamson and Jane Kimber beat Dave Holland, Jill Brooks and Janet Shannon.
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Bar Rota July-August 2019
This is now in the members only area so that we can include everyones phone number and everything is in one place. You will therefore need to login to see it.
Not registered yet? Go to the contact us button near the top of the page, send us a message and we'll get back to you.
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Friday Evening League Results - 14th June
Results and league standings can be found here :-
https://www.thamebowlsclub.co.uk/index.php/friday-evening-league
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Friday League Starts Tonight - 14th June
The Friday League begins tonight at 6:15pm so even if you're not playing why not come down to the club for a drink and a sausage or bacon roll.
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Purser Cup - Sunday 23rd June
The Purser Cup Competition Sunday 23rd June
This is an annual triples competition for Club Members only that is held on our green.
We arrive on the day and teams are drawn there and then to balance the teams as much as possible to ensure an enjoyable and friendly contest.
Please indicate you wish to play by putting your name on the Noticeboard - again if you want me to put your name up for you please let me know.
Arrival time at the Clubhouse by 1:15pm
Dress code Whites.
No organised food is being provided but feel free to bring your own snacks if you wish.
Thanks
John Walker
01844 351036
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Post Code Challenge Match 10 June 2.30pm
Unfortunately, the Gloucester Trip has been cancelled due to lack of players.
In it’s place we are organising a Post Code Challenge Match starting at 2.30pm.
The Thame Townie’s: Captained by Maire and Ron Duncan
will play
The Village Peasant’s: Captained by Jane Kimber and John Walker
Who do you play for?
All members living within the OX9 post code will play for the Townie’s.
All member living in ANY other post code will play for the Peasant’s.
Dress code: Club Shirt with Grey: Match Fee £3 to include Pizza’s after the match.
Format will be decided when number of players are known.
Please sign your name on the Noticeboard in the Clubhouse if you wish to play.
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May Midweek Cup Week 3 - Final Results
Final Results
Team A comprising Barry Green, Val Sawyer, Jill Brooks and Leonard Grimshaw win the May midweek Cup.
Team A Team B
Barry Green Virginia Williams
Val Sawyer Mike Sawyer
Jill Brooks Barbara Waters
Leonard Grimshaw (C) Gordon Taylor (C)
Team C Team D
Mike Zak Vic Webb
Roger Blackburn Phil Reed
Frances Goodyear Marion Keal
Sandy Webb (C) John Hurley (C)
Result Result
May 14th Team A v Team D 12-5 Team B v Team C 5-12
May 21st Team A v Team C 8-9 Team B v Team D 5-12
May 28th Team A v Team B 9-6 Team C v Team D 5-10
Scoring is 1 point for each end won and 2 points for the winning team.
Scores will be totalled week by week and the team with the highest overall points total will be deemed the winners.
Final points totals (as at 28th May) :-
Team A 31
Team D 29
Team C 26
Team B 16
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Whitsun Trophy
Whitsun Trophy Sunday 26th May
Format – Rinks 12 ends
Four teams in total, each team consisting of four players. The first round of the competition will be drawn and the two winning teams from the first matches will play one another in the final, the two losing teams will play off for third place.
Teams are as follows :-
Team A Team B Team C Team D
Mike Zak Ann Ashfield Kevin Sharman Janet Shannon
Jane Kimber Marion Keal Frances Goodyear Maire Duncan
Jill Brooks Ron Duncan John Hurley Mike Ralls
Chris Shannon (C) Ray Plested (C) John Walker (C) John Ashfield (C)
Graham Watson – Competitions Secretary
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2019 Competitions Notice
COMPETITIONS 2019
Please note that the first named in the Draw is the CHALLENGER
The CHALLENGER is responsible for:
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Providing their opponent with 3 dates (preferably including a weekend)
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Providing dates as early as possible to enable the tie to be played well before the ‘to be played by’ date on the Chart
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Booking a Rink
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Arranging a Marker – preferably not a family member unless agreed by your opponent
For more Competition Information see the Members Handbook
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Competition Draws
This seasons competition draws can be found here
They will be updated with results once the play by dates are past.
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New Bowlers
The new bowlers program is now underway with a roll-up every Tuesday evening between 6 and 7 at which there will be qualified instructors. If you know anyone who might be interested please give Mike Ralls a shout.
There are a few photos from the first Tuesday in the photo gallery. You need to login to see them. If you haven't registered then please do it is free and there are more enhancements on the way.
If you're not sure how to do any of the above please email Phil or Ian at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we'll sort you out.
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SODC Learn to Bowl initiative and our first Recruitment Day 20th April
The Committee were recently approached by the SODC Go Active Gold Team to work in partnership with them on their Learn to Bowl beginners course initiative that is taking place at a few clubs across South Oxfordshire.
This free course is designed to provide beginners with a pressure free environment where anyone can Learn to Bowl.
The course will start on Tuesday 7th May from 6pm and will continue weekly through the season.
SODC have been advertising the course with posters (see below) and in the media, and you may have seen this recent article in the Thame Gazette.
This is a perfect opportunity to invite friends and family down to the club to learn the sport, so please spread the word and get them down to give it a try - our recently qualified coaches will be running the course.
There is obviously an appetite for the game locally because, at our first Club Recruitment Day on Saturday 20th April we had all 6 rinks in use when 16 new people turned up - luckily the day was supported by around 10 club members who were there to help!
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Setting up the Green – Saturday 6th April 2019
We had an excellent turnout of members this Saturday 6th April to set up the Green and the surroundings ready for the New Season, which commences this coming weekend with an in-house friendly. Although because of the clash with Spring Holidays quite a few regular helpers had informed me they would be unable to attend, around 35 members turned up to help, which enabled us to quickly achieve all the tasks we had planned. Thank you to everyone who was involved and it augurs well for another good season of friendship and participation throughout the Club.
There are a couple of photos in the gallery.
Chris Shannon
Hon Secretary and Green Keeper
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Pre Season Dinner Photos
Check the Photo Gallery for a few pictures of the pre season dinner.
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Jim Tite, Will Hawes, Marjorie Spencer
It is with great sadness to report that Jim Tite passed away on Monday afternoon 25th March. Jim was a great club man and enjoyed his bowls even when in poor health in recent years. Jim’s funeral will take place at St. Mary’s Church, Thame at 11am on Friday 5th April.
Will Hawes, who passed away recently, will be cremated at Oxford Crematorium on Monday 8th April at 2pm. Will was very enthusiastic when playing bowls, reading the head with great knowledge and understanding, and his love of the game was there for all to see.
Marjorie Spencer, who also passed away recently, was a stalwart of Thame Bowls Club in years gone by. Photographs of her can be seen on the clubhouse wall and by reputation she didn’t suffer fools gladly on the green. Marjorie would have been 104 years old this April and many of you might remember we celebrated her 100th birthday at the Club. There will be a remembrance service for her.
Bill Giles OBE
Chairman
Thame Bowls Club
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Green Update - Friday 29th March
Avonmore visited yesterday and completed the latest Spring maintenance routines. The Green was Verticut twice and solid tined to aerate and promote root growth. The green was then over-seeded and spiked rolled to help promote new growth on the remaining bare patches. They will return in the next ten days to fertilize with a product that stays active for 8 to 10 weeks encouraging growth in the early part of the season.
We will continue brushing every day there is heavy dew, because the current weather conditions make us still very susceptible to a further attack of fusarium which would create fresh bare patches and the necessity for the application of more chemicals to control the disease spread.
From Monday 1st April we will commence cutting three times a week at 6ml, which although may not remove lots of grass at the moment, but will encourage the plant to put up more shoots from the roots as a natural defence to constantly getting the top of it’s new shoots cut off. This will thicken the cover of grass overall. What we need is a sustained period of warmer weather to increase the ground temperatures, but that is in the lap of the Gods – so we will do our best in the meanwhile.
Don't forget Saturday the 6th April to set up the Green and surrounding areas for opening on Wednesday the 10th April.
Chris Shannon
- Hits: 99
Pre Season Forum 13th March
The Pre-Season Forum was held at the clubhouse on 14th March starting at 7pm and was very well attended by so many.
The following people gave brief presentations on the following subjects:
Bill Giles -Welcome and introductions
Graham Watson - Overview of the evening and sponsorship
Chris Shannon - The Green, Membership List, League Applications
Mike Ralls - New member recruitment and development and Tuesday roll-ups
Ian Rutherford and Phil Reed - Website
Ian Rutherford - Re-build update
Graham Watson - Fixture booklet
Graham Watson - Competitions
John Walker - Weekend games
Jill Brooks - Ladies fixtures
Terry Emberson - Midweek fixtures
Ron Duncan - League games
Maire Duncan - Gloucester Trip 10th June
John Walker - Bar and staffing
Bill Giles - Friday League
Graham Watson - Pre-season event
Bill Giles - Volunteering and close
During the evening our Treasurer Ian Rutherford collected around 60 Membership Renewal Forms and money. This clearly reflects how full the clubhouse was for the event, especially when taking into account some people attending had already renewed their membership in advance.
- Hits: 91
New Bowler Recruitment
Please see the flyer below which is part of the 2019 recruitment drive. If you need any copies please contact a member of the development group.
- Hits: 83
Green Update - Tuesday 19th February
A message here from Chris Shannon, our Greenkeeper & Hon. Secretary.
Avonmore visited this morning and carried out a full programme of treatment. They cut and slit the green to aerate the roots and sprayed with tonics and herbicides then added lawn sand to kill off the moss that was starting to infiltrate the bare patches. There is some scarring from the fusarium problems we had before the cold spell hit us, but there is already some good new growth coming through on these bare patches.
We need to keep off the green entirely until after the weekend, then re-commence brushing from Monday onwards. It will be extremely beneficial to keep as much dew off the grass as the weather warms up again. The more we do that the better chance we have of keeping any further disease at bay. We will start cutting to 7mm from now on and we should see some increased growth if or as the weather warms up.
It is great to think this club has such a fantastic 'green team' whose work largely goes unseen when nobody else is about and who oversee the condition of our playing surface all year round. All club members appreciate their hard work.
- Hits: 87
Pre Season Dinner 23rd March
This year's Pre Season Dinner will be held in the Clubhouse on 23rd March at 6:30pm for 7:00pm.
Hopefully you will have had an email with menu and booking information from Ian Rutherford, but if not details of the menu choices and how to book are on Forms in the Clubhouse. If you are unable to get into the Clubhouse then please contact Ian by email or on 07860 318827.
The cost is just £10 per person including an entry in the evening's prize draw. Initially we suggest places only be open to Club members plus 1 and we will open it up to friends in a few weeks time depending on demand, but special requests always entertained.
Last year's event was immensely successful so I'm sure you will want to join us this time.
Please let us know as soon as possible if you would like to come.
- Hits: 86
Pre Season Forum 13th March
This year's Pre Season Forum will be held on 13th March at the Clubhouse at 7:00pm.
As usual on this evening you will hear from various Committee Members what is planned for 2019.
Please come along, have a drink and learn what is on the agenda for the season to come.
- Hits: 88
Quiz Night 2nd Feb 2019
Our very first Quiz Night held on 2nd February was a highly successful event with 74 quizzers taking part.
Our thanks to everyone who came and made it such a great night out, but especially to Graham Watson for putting the questions together and for conducting the evening so well, to John Walker for providing snacks for the tables, Jane for the hot pizzas and Alfred for making sure the bar ticked over all evening.
Some photos from the evening are now in the Gallery.
- Hits: 86
Christmas Bingo 22nd December
John and Ruth Timms' Bingo Night just before Christmas was a spectactular success with around 60 people coming along to enjoy themselves.
One or two players seemed to have unbelieveable luck (or was it skill) to have multiple wins and many of us walked away with prizes as the evening went on.
We also had the Sports Club 200 Club Christmas draw with the year's major cash prizes to be won and Messrs Canfield and Reed took away the cheques - congratulations to them.
Special thanks go to John and Ruth for running the event.
- Hits: 82
Lightfoots Sleep Out Event 30th November
In support of our friends at Lightfoots, our Clubhouse will provide facilities overnight on Friday 30th November - 1st December from 7pm until after breakfast the next morning for a 'Sleep Out' in and around the Clubhouse.
The Sleep Out is a nationwide fundraising event with a view to helping to End Youth Homelessness, details of which are on the Lightfoots website here https://lightfoots.co.uk/mortgage-sleep-out/
Lightfoots are aiming to raise £1,000 to contribute towards the combined aim of raising £100,000 across the country. To find out more and contribute if you wish, please visit www.justgiving.com/lightfoots-solicitors
The plan, weather permitting, is for a number of Lightfoots' Partners and staff to build rudimentary shelters using cardboard or other materials outside the Clubhouse and, as the initiative suggests, sleep out overnight. If the weather is poor, they will sleep inside.
Prior to the actual Sleepout on Friday evening we will be opening the bar and Lightfoots hope to be able to get hold of a short video to be shown around 8.30pm about the fundraising initiative.
Bowls Club Members will be welcome during the evening if you wish to drop by.
For one week only, our usual Friday short mat session will be held on the Thursday evening 29th.
- Hits: 101
Table Tennis
Hi Everybody,
Just a note to say that we have resumed the Friday Table Tennis sessions from 2pm to 4pm. It's an opportunity to have a natter with your fellow Club members, have a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit - oh and we play some Table Tennis of a mixed and dubious standard - everyone is welcome! Not only do we provide the Table, but plenty of bats and balls as well - so come along and get some closed season exercise with a bit of fun included.
Chris Shannon
Secretary
Thame Bowls Club.
- Hits: 110
A Year in the Life of Thame Bowls Club
Check this out in the Members Only Area. It is a fascinating insight behind the scenes.
- Hits: 97
Photo Gallery latest and 2018 AGM Agenda & Propositions for Consideration and Vote
Dear Bowls Club Members, to see all the photos uploaded over the last couple of months, please log in with your User Name and Password and click on the Gallery link in the Club Member Menu that will then appear on the left. There are photos of the recent Sponsors Evening, Finals Weekend, Blind Bowlers Competition Day, Town Council match and our Club's Presentation Evening.
Please also note that the AGM Agenda and detail of the Propositions for Consideration and Vote at the AGM have now been transferred to the Members Only area.
- Hits: 101
Club Finals Weekend 8th & 9th Sept - schedule of play and winners
This weekend is Club Finals Weekend - the schedule of play (and winners) was as follows:
Saturday 8th September
11am Victory Pairs
Les Canfield and Leonard Grimshaw v Ian Rutherford and Chris Shannon (winners)
11am Warwick Cup
Thomas Tisbury and Doreen Penn (winners) v Shirley Foster and John Ashfield
1pm Ladies 2 Wood Singles
Ann Ashfield v Maxine Plested (winner)
1pm Walker Cup
Robin Jenner (winner) v Paul Costin
3pm Jubilee Handicap Cup
Bill Giles (winner) v Chris Shannon
3pm Honour Cup
Janet Shannon v Frances Goodyear (winner)
Sunday 9th September
11am Josey Cup (Married Pairs)
Doreen and Graham Penn (winners) v Janet and Chris Shannon
11am Ford Cup
Shirley Foster and Frances Goodyear (winners) v Jill Brooks and Ann Ashfield
11am Taylor Cup
Paul Costin (winner) v John Sear
1pm Michael Jones Cup
Chris Shannon v Paul Costin (winner)
3pm Pomeroy Cup
Doreen Penn v Maxine Plested (winner)
3pm Coronation Cup
Graham Watson (winner) v Bill Giles
- Hits: 99
The Paul Heafey Memorial Cup Final
The final of the Paul Heafey Memorial Cup was held on Tuesday 7 August and was well attended by a number of spectators.
The final result was as follows : -
Team D beat Team A by 8 points to 3 and Team B beat Team C by 5 points to 4.
This combined with the scores from the previous two rounds evenings meant an overall Cup win for Team C.
Using our points scoring system of 1 point for winning an end and 2 points for winning the match, the Final Table looks like this:
| Team | Round 1 | Round 2 | Round 3 | Total |
| C | 7 | 6 | 2 | 15 |
| D | 1 | 7 | 6 | 14 |
| B | 4 | 1 | 6 | 11 |
| A | 4 | 2 | 3 | 9 |
Team C collected the trophy presented by Sharon Heafey and President Les Canfield and comprised Judy Kingston, Ian Griffiths, Mike Zakaszewski and skip Adrian Wilcox.
Photos of the participating players and the winning team are in the gallery section.
Mike Ralls
- Hits: 113
Summary of our performance in the Oxfordshire Men's Bowls League 2018
Our Oxfordshire Men's Bowls League performance resulted in a satisfying 3rd place in what turned out to be a tight finale, because right up to the last game we could have ended up 2nd from bottom and potentially relegated if we hadn't have got the 2 points we needed for safety. As it was we won 4-2 against Blackbird Leys to cement that 3rd place.
Captain Les Canfield passes on his thanks to everyone who played for us during the season and to those who supported the team, especially Jane and her team for excellent catering, those who worked the bar and of course Chris, Jesse and the greenkeepers for providing a super surface for us to play on.
Our results this season were:
| Team Played | Win/Lost | Home/Away | Score (Thame score first) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oxford City & County B | win | away | 4 - 2 |
| Adderbury | lost | home | 2 - 4 |
| Headington B | win | away | 4 - 2 |
| Banbury Central B | lost | home | 2 - 4 |
| Blackbird Leys | lost | away | 2 - 4 |
| Oxford City & County B | win | home | 6 - 0 |
| Adderbury | lost | away | 0 - 6 |
| Headington B | win | home | 4 - 2 |
| Banbury Central B | lost | away | 2 - 4 |
| Blackbird Leys | win | home | 4 - 2 |
Final League position:
| Team | Played | Points | For / Against Shots Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adderbury | 10 | 52 | 362 |
| Headington B | 10 | 34 | 118 |
| Thame | 10 | 30 | 9.5 |
| Banbury Central B | 10 | 27.5 | -101 |
| Blackbird Leys | 10 | 23.5 | -154.75 |
| Oxford City & County B | 10 | 13 | -219.75 |
- Hits: 101
President's Day on Sunday 19th August
President Les Canfield invites you to play in the Annual President's Day Competition.
Last year's President's Day was a fabulous day enjoyed by all, both experienced and new bowlers, so this year's event is not to be missed!
This one-day competition is one of the highlights of the season and will cost just £8 per person including a meal afterwards with wine included.
Play is scheduled for a 10:30 start (so please arrive by 10:00) and the meal will be served shortly after play finishes in the afternoon.
Full details of the format of the competition will be posted shortly but please add your name to the list on the Club Notice Board as soon as can.
- Hits: 89
The Paul Heafey Cup, Thame Town Council event, Ladies v Gents Match and Sponsors Evening
The Paul Heafey Cup
We are holding a new bowlers competition over three Tuesday evenings, the 24th just gone, 31st July and 7th August.
16 new bowlers will be taking part on each of those evenings, in teams of 4, playing six ends.
The winning team will receive a trophy on Presentation Evening and this will be known as “The Paul Heafey Cup”. We hope this will be seen as a fitting tribute to Paul's memory.
On the final evening of the competition there will be some “special offers” on drinks at the bar along with some nibbles.
Thame Town Council afternoon event 30th August
We have been asked by Thame Council to host a fun afternoon for their employees.
They have made Bowls their activity of choice and would like to sample playing in a match.
There will be 16 of them attending and we would like to find 16 players from the club to mix in with them, so we can play a four rink match together.
The match will take place on Thursday afternoon 30th August starting at 1.30pm. Dress Code will be Grey.
We also need the help of a few volunteers to assist on Tuesday evening 21st August from 5.00pm – 6.00pm when they will be coming to the green for a practice session.
Please let one of the Development Team know if you are able to assist in this.
Ladies v Gents Match / Sponsors Evening 31st August
On 31st August we will be playing the annual Ladies V Gents fixture.
We will also be inviting our Sponsors to come along to see us in action in front of their sponsor boards and be entertained.
After the match we will be providing a buffet supper for everyone.
Hopefully this will prove to be a very enjoyable and beneficial evening.
The list for names will go up on the board shortly.
Graham Watson
- Hits: 104
The Paul Heafey Cup
The first round of the Paul Heafey Cup, competed for by our new bowlers, took place on Tuesday evening and proved to be an unqualified success with a convincing win for Team C over Team D by 7 points to 1.
Team C comprised Judy Kingston, Ian Griffiths, Mike Zakaszewski and skip Adrian Wilcox.
The other match between Team A and Team B was a draw with both teams scoring 4 points each.
The next round will be played on Tuesday 31 July at 6.00pm with Team A playing Team C and Team B playing Team D.
Mike Ralls
- Hits: 101
A Busy Week Commencing 11th June
Monday 11th sees the Club go to Cheltenham for an awayday - see Gallery for photos.
The home League fixture on Thursday evening June 14th is against bottom of the league Banbury Central, then on Friday evening we play the 2nd leg of the Norfolk Cup Competition against South Oxford, which we go into with an 11 shot lead after a brillinat victory away in June! See Gallery for photos.
On Saturday we have friendlies against High Wycombe at home and Princes Risborough away on the Sunday.
If you haven't yet put your names down for next weekend's games against High Wycombe and Princes Risborough, please do so as soon as you can!
- Hits: 102
Ladies' Top Club of Oxfordshire 2016 Winners
The long awaited photo of the Ladies' Top Club of Oxfordshire 2016 Winners is now in the Gallery and under Club Honours - click on the content menu items on the left to view.
And come and support the Ladies in their 2nd Top Club match of this season, this time against Banbury Central on Sunday 3rd June at 10.00am at Chiltern Grove
- Hits: 106
Upcoming Matches to look out for
Having won our first league match of the season away at Oxford City & County, effectively extending our unbeaten league run to over 12 months, we are scheduled to play our first home league game in 2018 on Thursday evening 31st May against Adderbury.
Then at 10am this Sunday 3rd June, the ladies play in the next round of the Oxfordshire Top Club against Banbury Central.
All supporters and spectators will of course be welcome at both games.
Also, having beaten a strong South Oxford side in the 1st leg of the Norfolk Cup away on Friday night, another date for your diary is the return leg which will be played at 6pm on Friday 15th June at the Chiltern Grove.
- Hits: 98
Thame Cub Scout Group played on our Green
The local Cub Scout Group were entertained on Wednesday evening 9th May when 18 young hopefuls tried their luck on the Green. All thoroughly enjoyed themselves and some may go on to take up the game as there were several positive performances.
The club is hosting another recruitment afternoon on Sunday 20th May and the parents who collected the scouts were also encouraged to return to come and have a go themselves.
Mike Ralls
- Hits: 105
Recruitment Days
We held our first recruitment day on Saturday and signed up six new members and with two more recruitment days to come (on Wednesday May 2 from 6.00pm and Sunday May 20 from 2.00pm) we have had an encouraging start from a numbers point of view. We are also continuing with our Tuesday evening rollups for potential new members from 6.00pm when the only kit required is a pair of comfortable flat soled shoes as bowls will be provided.
Mike Ralls
- Hits: 115
Reflections on the Pre-Season Dinner
The Pre-Season Dinner on the 24th March went like a dream (rather than a nightmare) with everyone arriving well before time and sitting up straight waiting to be served. There might have been a small delay in serving the soup but this was cunningly disguised by opening the Chairman’s raffle board and encouraging more bids for the silent auction.
After the soup plates had been cleared (despite calls from elderly Oliver Twists for more) everyone joined in the Heads and Tails game which was keenly disputed by four finalists; eventually the bottle of Vintage Port went to Mrs Lynch.
The main course was despatched promptly and with compliments raining in from all sides (rather than bread rolls), the evening began to feel like a success. The miracle workers in the kitchen Irena and Sue had masterminded the cooking of two varieties of soups, 72 portions of cottage pie and lasagne and a heap of mixed veg whilst ensuring everything arrived piping hot to the table. This was helped enormously by plate warming in Les’ hostess trollies, the thermal dishes provided by John and Ruth and the speedy serving by Sandra, for which many thanks.
With the desserts, coffee and mints all included in the price, many favourable comments were received about both the value for money and the tasty food.
The raffle prize winners were spread among several tables and the auction lot bids were most generous.
The evening raised in excess of a fantastic £1,100 and an album of photos can be viewed in the gallery.
Thame Bowls Club would like to thank the following for their very generous support:
Chinnor Rugby Club; The Crown, Sydenham; The Black Horse, Thame; Pretty As A Picture, Thame; The Spread Eagle, Thame; Eclipse Salon, Thame; The Seven Stars, Dinton; The Six Bells, Thame; Hozelock Ltd, The Oxfordshire Golf Club; The Thatch, Thame.
Mike Ralls
Development Team
- Hits: 96
Silent Auction - winning bids
The Silent Auction winning bids on Saturday evening at the Pre Season Dinner now appear on the table below - a tremendous total of £635.
Thanks to everyone who bid and especially those who bid the highest!
And special thanks goes to those people and companies that donated the auction lots to us.
By all accounts the whole event was a roaring success and a report of the evening together with photos will appear on this website in the coming days.
|
Lot Number |
Gifted By |
Details |
Use By |
|
Winning Bids |
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1 |
John & Ann Ashfield |
Two tickets for a match at Chinnor Rugby Club in March/April as a guest of John and Ann, to include Lunch & a Bottle of Wine |
30/4/18 |
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£50 |
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2 |
The Crown Sydenham |
£40 Food and Drink Voucher
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£40 |
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3 |
The Black Horse Thame |
Two Course set Lunch for Two |
Mon - Fri |
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£40 |
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4 |
Pretty as a Picture Thame |
Framing Voucher |
1 Year |
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£20 |
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5 |
The Spread Eagle Thame |
Three Course Sunday Lunch for Two |
01/09/18 |
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£55 |
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6 |
Eclipse Salon Thame |
Voucher for a Cut and Finish |
10/05/18 |
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£20 |
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7 |
Seven Stars Dinton |
£25 Food and Drink Voucher |
30/06/18 |
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£35 |
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8 |
The Six Bells Thame |
£40 Food & Drink Voucher |
14/12/18 |
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£40 |
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9 |
Hozelock Ltd |
20m Auto-reel including fittings Plus Multi Spray Gun |
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£75 |
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10 |
The Oxfordshire Hotel |
Round of Golf for four |
1 Year |
|
£200 |
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11 |
The Thatch Thame |
£50 Food & Drink Voucher |
1 Year |
|
£60 |
- Hits: 102
Green Update 23rd March
Avonmore have today Verti-cut the grass, which controls weed grasses and helps maintain more upright growth. The Green was then mown, spiked and over-seeded. We will not mow it now for a week to ten days, to allow the seed time to become established, but just brush it regularly in the morning if it is damp with dew.
Avonmore will fertilise the Green in the next two weeks, we will then start to lower the mowing cut as we approach the beginning of season on the 11th April. What we really need is some sunshine and warmth to help promote further growth as we are a few weeks behind normal progress due to the cold weather.
Chris Shannon
- Hits: 108
Paul Heafey
Paul Heafey passed away on Saturday morning 10th March after a heart attack.
Paul was a relatively new member of Thame Bowls Club but very quickly learned the rudiments of the game such that he won his first club competition, The Taylor Cup, in 2012.
That was just the beginning, winning The Michael Jones Cup in 2016 and 2017 as well as being the runner up in The Coronation Cup, basically the top Men’s competition. In 2017 he was also the winner of The President’s Trophy with Jill Brooks and John Walker, but the pinnacle of his achievements must be winning The Josey Cup - also named the married pairs - with Sharon last August.
Not only was Paul one of the best bowlers in the club but he also played with great enthusiasm and success in the County Competitions.
He was a true, loyal club member and as Competition Secretary and League Club Captain was outstanding leading Thame Bowls Club to be undefeated in Oxfordshire League 4 during the 2017 season.
He appeared very laid back but had a very astute mind and a clever managerial approach which put everyone at their ease but he was not frightened to be quite firm when the occasion arose. He was also an accomplished bar steward travelling down from Bicester to serve the thirsty bowling members on his allotted days.
To say that he will be sadly missed is an understatement and it will be a long time before we see the likes of Paul again - he was loved by everyone.
Paul's funeral will be held at Oxford Crematorium at 10.00am on Tuesday 3rd April and after the service, from 11.30 onwards, we will celebrate Paul's life at Thame Bowls Club.
Bill Giles OBE
Chairman, Thame Bowls Club
- Hits: 138
Pre-Season Forum 14th March
The Pre-Season Forum was held at the clubhouse on 14th March starting at 7pm.
Our Chairman Bill Giles opened the meeting with a one minute silence to honour Paul Heafey, our highly regarded League Captain and Competitions Secretary who passed away on Saturday morning. Paul will be greatly missed both as a friend and as a very active member of the bowls club.
The following people then spoke:
Bill Giles -Welcome and introductions
Chris Shannon - Apologies for Absence, Membership List, League Applications
David Owens - Overview of the evening and sponsorship
Mike Ralls - New member recruitment and development, Tuesday roll-ups, Newsletter
Ian Rutherford and Phil Reed - Website, Twitter, Instagram, Members Booklet, 200 Club
Graham Watson - Fixture booklet
Bill Giles - Competitions, League games
Les Canfield - Weekend games and the Green
Jill Brooks - Ladies fixtures
Bill Giles (on behalf of Gordon Taylor) - Midweek fixtures
Ron Duncan - Cheltenham Trip 11th June
John Walker - Bar and staffing
Bill Giles - Friday League starting 1st June
Graham Watson - Pre-season event
Bill Giles - Volunteering and close
The speakers were asked to limit themselves to brief 4 minute sessions to allow for socialising afterwards, with any questions to be covered in conversation later in the evening.
- Hits: 120