FOUNDED 1947
To promote good fellowship in the game of flat green bowls
ORTON LONGUEVILLE (THREE COUNTIES) TOUR REPORT 2011
When it was first muted that the EVPA Tour was to visit Peterborough in Cambridgeshire,
I was somewhat taken aback -
My fears were heightened when Tony Ellis reported that he was having some difficulty
in finding clubs willing to host games against our tourists -
However, Tony being Tony, he wasn’t about to be deterred by such a response and finally succeeded in arranging a full programme of games for both men and ladies.
Our first game, to be played on the way to the hotel, was against Peterborough & District B.C. who had agreed to provide a buffet lunch before the game, which proved to be more than adequate in quality and quantity. The hospitality we received from our hosts was to set the pattern for the week, with good fellowship, competitive bowling and good greens. The result of our first game was a win and we departed for our hotel with best wishes from our opponents.
The hotel was every bit as good as President John Gardner had predicted. The rooms, facilities, service, helpful staff and more especially the standard and quality of the meals were excellent!
Subsequent games were played against Oakham B.C. Leicestershire.
Eynesbury B.C. St. Neots., Werrington B.C., Blackstones B.C. Stamford, Lincolnshire and finally, Whittlesey Manor B.C.
In spite of his couple of very late nights at the local hospital, Tour Organiser
Tony was his usual impeccable self as ‘Master of Ceremonies’ and Maureen and her
ladies did their best to match the success of the men ! Junior Deputy Keith’s
lady Shirley took over the mantle of chief photographer in Ian’s absence. -
The weather was excellent until the last day when the heavy showers caused us to ‘call it a day’ at 16 ends but, no less enjoyable in spite of the rain.
Ian Bates gave us all a shock by having his tour cut short by sudden illness resulting in a stay in hospital and having to return home for further treatment. Nevertheless our final evening, topped by the customary presentation to President John (10/10) and his good lady Eileen (11/10!) rounded off a very good tour.
May it long continue.
Reg Macdonald