An EDICT was issued by Bowls England / Hertfordshire Bowling Association on the 24th June concerning the Extreme Weather. Decisions regarding playing conditions due to inclement weather should prioritise player welfare. Some ‘fixed date’ competitions have had an extension but need to be played before the next round of the competition. Some clubs have cancelled or rescheduled matches.

Batchwood played Welwyn & District Club away in the HB Club Competition. It was played in the evening in extreme heat with the temperature in the low thirties. It is a mixed competition but Welwyn & District had an all-men team, Batchwood fielded four ladies. Three rinks played. Batchwood won two of the rinks, the top rink was John Bell, Brenda Bennitt, Paul Flower and Skip John Turkentine 28 – 5. Batchwood won 48 – 23 and proceed to the next round when Batchwood play Harpenden.

Brian Parkes, the Batchwood Treasurer, played an Officers Singles match away at Potters Bar Bowls Club against Dave Sparrow. The match was again played in extreme heat, and was very one-sided with Brian winning 21 – 8.

In the Watford Vets Pairs competition Brian Parkes and Chris Kelly played a team away at Radlett. It was a close match in high heat levels. Batchwood conceded 6 shots in the 16th end to bring the Radlett team into the match. Brian Parkes won the match with his final bowl – an outstanding, and necessary, draw! Batchwood won 16 – 14. Batchwood are through to Round 3.

The Rotary Club of St Albans Verulamium came along for a ‘fun game’ prior to their usual meeting. The occasion was on one evening during the heatwave. The temperature was in the low thirties. Batchwood chose the two best rinks in partial shade to protect the Rotarians from the sun. It was a lively encounter, enjoyed by all. After the game there was a group photo and a request to return again!

Tricia Gascoine

Press Officer